The API includes a robust geometry engine. Use cwVector3d for directions.
public void MoveElement(int elementId)
cwAPI.cwIElement element = _api.getElement(elementId);
// Create a translation vector (Move 1000mm in Y direction)
cwGeometry.cwVector3d translation = new cwGeometry.cwVector3d(0, 1000, 0);
// Apply move
element.move(translation);
// Alternatively, rotate
// element.rotate(axisPoint, axisVector, angleDegrees);
cadwork relies heavily on User Attributes (List Variables) for labeling and organizing.
public void SetAttributeExample(int elementId)
cwAPI.cwIElement element = _api.getElement(elementId);
// Set User Attribute 1 (Usually "Element Name" or custom field)
element.setListItem(1, "Wall_Panel_01");
// Set Group Attribute
element.setAttribute(5, "Level_01"); // Attribute 5 might be "Group"
If you move a wall panel, its attached studs and sheathing should move with it. When using the API, always modify parent elements first, or use constraints; otherwise, you may break associative geometry.
The cadwork API unlocks significant efficiencies for timber construction and prefabrication by bridging design intent with fabrication execution. Successful integrations balance technical translation (geometry and joinery fidelity) with practical concerns (versioning, licensing, and shop verification). Start small, validate thoroughly, and iterate toward fuller automation and BIM interoperability.
If you want, I can: produce a short sample script outline for reading parts via a cadwork SDK (specify target language), draft a data-mapping plan to convert cadwork elements to IFC entities, or sketch a CNC export pipeline. Which would you prefer?
The "cadwork API" refers to the programming interfaces (Python and C++) used to automate workflows and extend the functionality of cadwork, a leading CAD/CAM software for timber construction. While there is no single "foundational" academic paper for the API itself, its development and use are documented through technical repositories, industry presentations, and recent AI-integration initiatives. Core API Documentation and Resources
Official Python API Repository: The cadwork-api GitHub repository serves as the primary technical reference, containing the source code and documentation for the Python interface.
MCP Server for AI Assistance: As of early 2026, an MCP (Model Context Protocol) server was launched to help developers use AI assistants to generate grounded scripts and explore API modules more effectively.
Technical Implementation: The API allows for the automation of BIM workflows, bridge creation between CAD and other applications, and integration with tools like Rhino.Inside. Relevant Technical "Papers" and Presentations
While not traditional peer-reviewed journals, these documents function as the authoritative "papers" for the software's API evolution:
Rhino User Meeting (2023): A presentation by Michael Brunner titled "APIs in Cadwork: The Bridge Between CAD and Other Applications" details how the Python/C++ APIs optimize timber workflows.
Cadwork Version 30 News: Official documentation (e.g., Version 30 SP2024 PDF) outlines performance optimizations and database compatibility critical for API stability. Key Use Cases
Automation: Generating 3D geometry and shop drawings automatically.
Data Exchange: Linking cadwork models to external databases or structural analysis software.
AI Integration: Using the new MCP server to reduce coding "hallucinations" when scripting complex timber joints or layouts.
To develop a solid post about the cadwork API, it's important to focus on its role in bridging the gap between CAD modeling and automated timber construction workflows.
Here are a few options for a professional social media or blog post (e.g., for LinkedIn), ranging from high-level benefits to technical implementation.
Option 1: The "Efficiency & Automation" Hook (Best for LinkedIn)
Headline: Stop Clicking, Start Coding: Unlocking the Power of cadwork API 🚀
Are you still performing repetitive manual tasks in your timber engineering workflow? It’s time to talk about the cadwork API.
Whether you are using the Python/C++ API or exploring the integration of Rhino.Inside Cadwork, the API serves as the ultimate bridge between standard CAD and advanced, automated production. Why it matters:
Workflow Optimization: Automate routine modeling tasks, from simple attribute assignments to complex geometric generation.
Seamless Integration: Link your cadwork models directly to external data sources, structural analysis software like Dlubal (e.g., via the LIGNA hall configurator), or ERP systems.
Future-Proofing: Leverage the Python API to stay agile as timber construction moves toward more digital, "Industry 4.0" manufacturing. cadwork api
The cadwork 3D environment is powerful, but its API is where true scalability lives. How are you using automation to push your timber projects further?
#TimberEngineering #CADWork #Automation #Python #WoodConstruction #DigitalFabrication
Option 2: The Technical "Deep Dive" (For Developers/Power Users)
Headline: The Bridge Between CAD and Code: Exploring the cadwork Python API 🛠️
For those looking to push the boundaries of BIM in timber construction, the cadwork API is a game changer. The ability to manipulate 3D elements programmatically allows for precision and speed that manual drafting simply cannot match. Key Tech Capabilities:
Rhino.Inside Integration: Use Rhino’s geometry kernel to drive complex stand-alone or web applications directly within the cadwork ecosystem.
User Attribute Management: Programmatically manage and structure unlimited user attributes—essential for modern, data-rich BIM models.
Open Development: With libraries available on platforms like GitHub, the community is actively building tools to refactor and optimize cadwork-based workflows.
Automation isn't just about speed; it's about eliminating human error in the transition from design to the production line.
Check out the latest Cadwork News here to see how version 30 and the Hoops Visualize engine are further enhancing these capabilities.
#BIM #SoftwareDevelopment #CadworkAPI #ComputationalDesign #TimberDesign Pro-Tips for Your Post:
Visuals: Use a video of a script running in real-time (e.g., a hall being generated automatically) or a side-by-side of a Rhino/Grasshopper script feeding into cadwork.
Tagging: Mention cadwork or specific integration partners to increase visibility.
Call to Action (CTA): Ask a question like, "What is the one task in cadwork you wish you could automate with a single click?" News Version 30 - cadwork 3D
The Cadwork API (primarily the for Python) allows you to automate repetitive tasks, create custom geometric elements, and extend the functionality of Cadwork 3D without modifying the core software. 1. Initial Setup
To start scripting, your environment must be configured so Cadwork recognizes your plugins. Locate the API folder : Open Cadwork 3D and navigate to Help → Info . Click on the Userprofile folder link. Directory Structure : In your Userprofile, navigate to 3d\API.x64 Create a Plugin
: Every script requires its own folder. The folder name and the must be identical .../API.x64/MyTool/MyTool.py Icon (Optional) : Add a 30x30 pixel file with the same name (e.g., MyTool.png ) in the same folder to see it in the Cadwork Plugin Bar 2. Core Programming Concept The API is organized into Controllers , each managing specific aspects of the model. element_controller
: Used to create, modify, or query elements like beams and panels. utility_controller
: Used for user interactions, such as picking points in 3D or showing dialog boxes. geometry_controller
: Handles mathematical operations and 3D coordinate transformations. 3. Basic "Hello World" Script
This example asks the user for a point and creates a drilling vector. element_controller utility_controller # Get user input uc.get_user_bool( Create drilling? = uc.get_user_point() = uc.get_user_double( Enter length # Create element (Diameter 40, length, point, direction) ec.create_drilling_vectors( , length, pt, cadwork.point_3d( Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard 4. Advanced Use Cases Auto-Attributes
: Create "script-filled attributes" that automatically calculate values (like weight or surface area) at runtime based on geometry. External Integration
: Since Cadwork uses standard CPython, you can import external libraries like for custom GUIs. Batch Exporting The API includes a robust geometry engine
: Automate the export of shop drawings or container data to external files. 5. Debugging and Resources Cadwork Python Documentation
Unlocking the Power of CAD: A Comprehensive Guide to CADwork API
In the world of computer-aided design (CAD), software applications have revolutionized the way architects, engineers, and designers create, modify, and analyze digital models. One such powerful tool is CADwork, a popular CAD software used across various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and product design. To further extend its capabilities, CADwork provides an API (Application Programming Interface) that allows developers to create custom applications, automate tasks, and integrate CADwork with other software systems. In this article, we'll delve into the world of CADwork API, exploring its features, benefits, and applications.
What is CADwork API?
The CADwork API is a set of programming interfaces that allows developers to access and manipulate CADwork's functionality, data, and models. It provides a way to interact with CADwork programmatically, enabling automation, customization, and integration with other software applications. The API is designed to be flexible and extensible, supporting various programming languages, including C++, C#, and .NET.
Key Features of CADwork API
The CADwork API offers a wide range of features that enable developers to tap into CADwork's capabilities. Some of the key features include:
Benefits of Using CADwork API
The CADwork API offers numerous benefits to developers, CAD users, and organizations. Some of the key advantages include:
Applications of CADwork API
The CADwork API has a wide range of applications across various industries, including:
Getting Started with CADwork API
To get started with the CADwork API, developers need to:
Conclusion
The CADwork API is a powerful tool that unlocks the full potential of CADwork, enabling developers to create custom applications, automate tasks, and integrate CADwork with other software systems. By understanding the features, benefits, and applications of the CADwork API, developers and organizations can harness the power of CAD to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a CAD user looking to extend the capabilities of CADwork, this comprehensive guide has provided you with a solid foundation for exploring the world of CADwork API.
Introducing the CADwork API: Unlocking the Power of CAD Data
As a developer, have you ever struggled with accessing and manipulating CAD data in your applications? Look no further! The CADwork API is here to revolutionize the way you interact with CAD files and data. In this post, we'll explore the capabilities of the CADwork API and how it can benefit your development projects.
What is CADwork API?
The CADwork API is a programming interface that allows developers to access and manipulate CAD data from within their applications. It provides a set of APIs that enable you to read, write, and modify CAD files, as well as perform various operations on CAD data.
Key Features of CADwork API
Benefits of Using CADwork API
Example Use Cases
Getting Started with CADwork API
To get started with the CADwork API, simply:
Conclusion
The CADwork API is a powerful tool for developers working with CAD data. With its robust features and easy-to-use interface, it can help streamline your development process, improve data accuracy, and increase flexibility. Whether you're building a CAD viewer, a data analysis tool, or an automation script, the CADwork API is the perfect solution. Start exploring the CADwork API today and unlock the full potential of your CAD data!
The red light on the server rack blinked—the universal heartbeat of a deadline.
Elias stared at the monitor, his eyes burning. Outside the window of the Zurich office, the Limmat river was dark, reflecting the city lights, but Elias wasn't looking at the view. He was looking at a BIM model (Building Information Modeling) that looked less like a concert hall and more like a digital car crash.
"We have a problem," said Thomas, the senior structural engineer, leaning against the doorframe. He looked fresh; Elias hated him for it. "The steel fabricators need the updated node points for the timber roof trusses by 8:00 AM. The architect changed the slope angle by two degrees."
Elias groaned, rubbing his temples. "Two degrees? That changes every single rafter cut. That’s three hundred beams. I’d have to manually adjust the joinery in Cadwork for every single one."
"And if you don't," Thomas checked his watch, "the fabrication CNC machines sit idle tomorrow. That’s ten thousand francs an hour."
Elias turned back to the screen. The Cadwork interface was open, the 3D model of the glulam beams floating in wireframe limbo. Doing this manually was suicide. He could maybe do fifty beams an hour, and he’d make mistakes. The geometry was too complex, the angles too precise.
"I can't do it manually," Elias admitted. "I need an intervention."
He cracked his knuckles and opened his coding editor. It was time to talk to the machine.
Cadwork was a powerhouse of timber engineering, but its true power lay hidden beneath the graphical interface: the API (Application Programming Interface). Most draftsmen clicked buttons. Elias was about to write scripture.
He started typing.
import cadwork
The connection was established. He felt that familiar rush—the feeling of slipping behind the curtain. He wasn't just a user anymore; he was the architect of the process.
He needed a script that would:
"Okay," Elias whispered. "Let's get organized."
He typed a query to find the elements.
# Get all elements in the current selection context
element_ids = cadwork.element.get_active_identification()
For long-span glulam beams, camber (upward curvature) is mandatory. Using the API, engineers extract the beam's support points and self-weight, calculate the deflection curve (using an external structural library), and write the camber values back into the beam's geometry as a vertical curve—all without leaving cadwork.
Runtime: cadwork is Windows-native; plugins typically run inside the cadwork process or as COM/.NET extensions.
Data access: APIs operate on the open project/model in cadwork memory or on saved project files.
cadwork offers two primary methods of automation:
cadwork has evolved its API over multiple versions (v20, v21, v24, etc.). Currently, the most robust support exists for:
For most users, Python is the starting point. The learning curve is gentle, and the cadwork community has shared hundreds of snippets for common tasks.