Can you make family & place width by picking two points?

[rgesner]

I"ve created a parametric family component that works well and with its width as an instance parameter.

I'd like to place it and specify the width simply by picking two points, instead of having to pick a point at the midpoint of where I want it, measure relevant adjacent objects to determine the desired width, and then edit its properties to change its width to match.

The Storefront and the Modeling Opening are placed with two points similarly to how I'd like my family component to work.

Thanks - Rusty

[PeterJ]

You can't place and fix width in one operation, however, as it is an instance based parameter you should be able to define reference planes within the family to act as shape handles and then simply use the align tool once the family is placed to align it to the local geometry.

For example, if you had a shelf that you wanted to run between two walls you could place it on the third (hosting) wall and then align & lock the left end then the right and you would never need to check it's specific dimensions.

[Dimitri Harvalias]

Not a single operation but mighty close. Set one of the ref planes to defines origin and when you place the element it will act as the insert. One click inserts it and in the same operation you can grab the grip at the other end and stretch it to whatever length suits. Or, as Pete suggested, use the align tool.

Remember when placing you can use the space bar to flip the orientation as well.