Parametric Handrail & Fence Generator

[Xlance]

A powerful, Java-based procedural modeling tool designed for architects, 3D artists, and CAD engineers. This application streamlines the creation of complex railing systems, fences, and balustrades by replacing manual modeling with a high-fidelity parametric engine.

Whether you need a simple glass partition or a complex curved industrial handrail, this tool generates precise geometry in real-time.

Key Features

Fully Parametric Workflow: Adjust post heights, rail diameters, panel thickness, and sub-post spacing on the fly.
Dynamic 3D Preview: Integrated JavaFX viewport allows for real-time inspection of geometry with intuitive orbit, pan, and zoom controls.
Curvature Logic: Support for both linear and curved segments with adjustable radii—ideal for spiral staircases or rounded balconies.
Advanced Geometry Options: Choose from preset profiles (Rectangular, Elliptical) or load Custom OBJ/TXT shapes for rails and posts.
Material Physics: Set transparency and reflectivity ($0-100\%$) to visualize glass, polished steel, or matte wood finishes.

Industry-Standard Exports

This generator acts as a bridge between procedural design and production. Export your models to:

CAD: DXF (AutoCAD), SVG (Vector layouts).
3D Modeling: OBJ (Wavefront) with MTL support, 3DS (3D Studio).
Rendering: POV-Ray (.POV) for high-end ray-traced visualizations.

https://sourceforge.net/p/sweethome3d/plug-ins/61/

[Daniels118]

Very nice tool! Do you plan to convert it into a plugin?

[Xlance]

@Daniels118
I'm trying to convert it into a plugin, but it's a bit not easy. Feel free to try. I can surely forward you the source if interested

[Daniels118]

Thank you, but I will be out of the scene for a while. There is no hurry, but if you want to try you may look at how the roof generator works, it's a very good example to see how to transfer a model generated using a general purpose algorithm into sh3d.

[Xlance]

The Handrail generator plugin is now runnable from inside the new Advanced Shape generator. files posted on Sourceforge

https://sourceforge.net/p/sweethome3d/plug-ins/63/

[crackwood01]

Can you explain how to make it work with the AdvancedShape generator plugin, i've downloaded all the files, i put them all in the plugins folder, but can't make it work

[Xlance]

@crackwood01
> Run Sweethome3D
> Go to Tools menu
> Click Generate 3D Shape > it opens a dialog
> Click Advanced Models button > it opens AdvancedShape generator
> You will see Generate Handrail and Generate Extrude