Cadwork - Api
: Create, modify, copy, and delete architectural and structural elements (beams, panels, drillings).
cadwork is a leading 3D CAD/BIM software widely used in the timber construction, civil engineering, and steel construction industries. Unlike generic CAD platforms, cadwork specializes in frame manufacturing, roof trusses, modular buildings, and heavy timber engineering.
Execute boolean operations, cut elements, add drilling holes, and apply tenon-and-mortise or dovetail joints automatically.
// 1. Get IDs of selected elements in the viewport var selectedIds = _api.getSelectedElementIDs();
# Conceptual layout of a Cadwork API automation script import cadwork_element_module as elem import cadwork_geometry_module as geom def create_floor_joist(start_point, length, width, height): # Calculate end point using geometry vectors direction = geom.vector_3d(1, 0, 0) end_point = start_point + (direction * length) # Create the rectangular timber beam element new_beam = elem.create_rectangular_beam(start_point, end_point, width, height) # Assign attributes for production line sorting elem.set_attribute(new_beam, "Name", "Floor Joist") elem.set_attribute(new_beam, "Material", "C24 Spruce") return new_beam # Execute the automation function joist_start = geom.point_3d(0, 0, 0) create_floor_joist(joist_start, length=4500, width=60, height=200) Use code with caution. Best Practices for API Development cadwork api
: Active bug tracking and feature requests are managed on platforms like GitHub , where users discuss everything from contact detection issues to new export settings. Practical Impact
If you want to dive deeper into the code, check the official or the documentation files located in your local Cadwork installation directory ( \cadwork\exe\...\api\doc ).
Unleashing the Power of the Cadwork API: A Complete Guide to 3D CAD/CAM Automation
The cadwork API operates through a modular system of . Each controller handles a distinct facet of the cadwork 3D modeling environment: : Create, modify, copy, and delete architectural and
hosts repositories with initial commits and sample code to kickstart projects. The Verdict: A Tool for Scaling Expertise
visualization_controller : Controls how elements look in the active 3D window (colors, visibility, rendering styles). A Simple Example: Creating a Beam via Python API
The cadwork API, specifically the , is a powerful tool designed to automate and extend the capabilities of cadwork 3D using Python or C++ . It allows users to create custom plugins, automate repetitive modeling tasks, and integrate cadwork with external business systems like ERP or Excel. Core Capabilities
To ensure your scripts and plugins continue to work, keep these best practices in mind: Best Practices for API Development : Active bug
In the modern architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, efficiency is no longer just an advantage—it is a requirement. As building information modeling (BIM) and digital fabrication become standard, the ability to automate repetitive tasks separates industry leaders from the rest. For timber construction professionals, Cadwork stands out as the premier 3D CAD/CAM software. However, its true power is unlocked when you look beneath the interface and tap into the .
def main(): # Get the IDs of all selected elements element_ids = ec.get_active_identifiable_element_ids()
Essentially, the API bridges the gap between raw programmatic logic and Cadwork’s powerful geometric and manufacturing processor. Key Capabilities: What Can You Automate?
Scripts and plugins can be integrated directly into the Cadwork 3D environment, appearing as custom icons or commands. Customer-Specific Customization: