instance parameters flexing on reload...

[sfaust]

ok, so I have some families - lets use an L shaped shelf for example. I had it all set up in the project, but I wanted to add a parameter to calculate the linear feet, so I opened the family, created a shared parameter and made the formula add up the two segments of the shelf.

When I reloaded it into the project, it reset the lengths of the legs to what they are in the family by default (they are instance parameters). I know there is the option to reset parameter values on reload, but it was unchecked! I even tried it again to make sure.

Anyone know what's up?

[sfaust]

ok, answering my own question I think. I believe what happened is that those parameters got renamed. They were "Length - Wall" or something similar, but since I had to use them in a formula I couldn't use the "-" character (it sees it as a minus for those who don't know). I had to change it to "Length_Wall" so on reload it saw that as a different parameter without a preset value.... doh.

It would be nice if it could recognize that somehow. I'm not sure that's realistic, but it would be nice!...

note to self, don't name parameters with the dash anymore...

[dbaldacchino]

Actually there is a way...create a parameter without the dash, then create the forumla, then rename the parameter to include the dash (don't touch the ones in the formula).

[Steve_Stafford]

...note to self, don't name parameters with the dash anymore...

or any other "math" symbols... Now David...that isn't a good idea either...

[clog boy]

Can't we propagate them as strings, like ="Length - wall" + "other - parameter"? I think I should try it as a dummy family, which includes length-wall, length, wall, other-parameter, other and parameter.
Let me know is someone already tried that.

PS I name my parameters like Parameter_NAME, Object_PROPERTY etc.

[dbaldacchino]

haha Steve, I know it's not a good idea.....but it DOES work