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Showing posts from May, 2026

[029] How to Perform Vertical and Horizontal Splits in CityEngine

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How First Edge Defines the X-Axis Direction Counter-Clockwise Polygon Construction Behavior Transition from horizontal floor divisions to vertical facade splits by manipulating coordinate axes with alignScopeToGeometry. In CityEngine, procedural modeling relies heavily on understanding the local coordinate system of each shape. This tutorial explains how to use the split command for vertical divisions and introduces the alignScopeToGeometry(zUp) function. By reorienting the Z-axis to the Y-axis, you can apply architectural logic using the more intuitive X and Y plane, making it much easier to code complex building facades, floors, and repeating window patterns. Default Axis Orientation and Split Direction in CityEngine The splits we have learned so far were mainly focused on horizontal divisions. Today, we will cover vertical splits. Regarding the content mentioned in the previous session, I hope you haven...

[028] How to Select Specific Segments Using split.index in CityEngine

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Learn how to use the split.index function to identify and control specific segments within a procedural split operation for precise architectural logic. This tutorial covers the sequential nature of CGA split operations and demonstrates how to target specific segments using zero-based indexing, allowing for more dynamic and efficient rule writing compared to manual segment definition. What is split.index in CityEngine CGA? split.index is a value used to identify the position of each segment generated during a split operation. Sequential Indexing in Procedural Splits In our previous sessions, we explored the three types of split(~, *, ') operations. Today, I intended to cover splitting by rows and columns, but I felt it would be better to pause and discuss the index at this point. Although we haven't officially learned about axis or scope yet, the split operation works by dividing an area one by one alo...

[027] Understanding Absolute Ratio Split (') in Esri CityEngine CGA

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Learn to utilize the absolute ratio symbol (') in CGA split operations to divide shapes based on a normalized total length of 1. This tutorial explains how the absolute ratio (') symbol works in Esri CityEngine CGA. Unlike relative split (~), it normalizes the split direction to a total value of 1, enabling consistent proportional subdivision regardless of actual geometry size. We explore its technical application in high-rise building facades and analyze how reference points shift in nested split operations. What Is the Absolute Ratio Symbol (') in CityEngine CGA? The importance of the split operation in CGA cannot be overstated. It is important to learn various ways of using split while analyzing rules written by others. Until yesterday, we covered the relative split symbol '~', which divides internal regions relatively. Today, we'll explore how to split shapes using absolute ratios, where th...

[026] How to Control Approximate Split (~) Works in Esri CityEngine

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Discover the 1/3 threshold rule for approximate splits to perfectly manage leftover geometry dimensions without creating useless polygons. This tutorial explores the specific mathematical criteria CityEngine uses to handle remaining dimensions when using the approximate split operator (~). By understanding the "1/3 rule," you can predict exactly when a rule will create an additional segment or simply distribute the remainder across existing ones, ensuring your procedural models remain clean and geometrically logical. Core Logic of Approximate Split (~) Let's continue from last time and look into the specific criteria for approximate splitting. To explain it simply: if the remaining length exceeds 1/3 of the approximate split value following the '~' operator, CityEngine reduces the approximate size and performs one additional split. Basic Split Example (134m Rectangle) I will draw a rectangle with...

[025] How Relative Split Ratios (~) Work in CityEngine CGA

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Distribute remaining architectural spaces proportionally using relative ratios (~) in CGA split and learn approximate repeating splits. This tutorial continues our exploration of the split command by focusing on the powerful tilde (~) operator. You will learn how to divide geometries based on proportions rather than fixed meters, how to combine fixed dimensions with relative ones, and how to use approximate repeating splits to ensure your models perfectly fill a given space without leaving small leftover fragments. Since tomorrow will be a busy day making kimchi, I wanted to write this lesson in advance. Following the previous lecture, we continue with the split command. There is something I forgot to mention briefly when explaining the tilde (~). Imagine a situation like this. When splitting a rectangular lot with a total length of 40m, do you always have to input the exact numerical values for the lengths you want...

[024] How to Use the Split Command with Fixed and Ratio Values in CityEngine

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Learn the fundamental concepts of dividing shapes into exact architectural dimensions and relative ratios using CityEngine's most essential command. This tutorial covers everything from the basic syntax of the split command to advanced techniques like repeating splits, nested divisions, and relative ratio splitting ( ~ ). By the end of this guide, you will understand how to precisely control the subdivision of your procedural models to prepare them for detailed architectural detailing. Understanding the Basics of the Split Command In CGA, creating form begins with effective subdivision. Whether it’s recessed areas, protruding elements, decorative inserts, door placements, or color zones—it is all about defining regions so that everything is positioned at the desired size in the planned location. This is where the split command comes into play. If you look at the CGA reference, there are two additional commands...