How to make a custom light object?

Description

I need to create a custom light object that I can modify the various lighting levels.

Solution

To create a custom lamp design in Archicad, where lighting levels can be controlled. Follow these steps to model, add to your project library, and fine-tune the light intensity of your custom lamp:

Model the lamp and save it as an object

1. Model the lamp object using Archicad’s Slab, Column, Beam, or Morph tools.

2. Apply a light source to your model using the Lamp Tool and adjust its intensity to approximate your desired lighting level.

   TIP:  At this stage, it is recommended to adjust the lighting intensity to a close approximation of your desired levels. Doing this now minimizes the adjustments needed later in the process.

   

3. Save your completed lamp model as a custom object.
   • Go to File > Libraries and Objects > Save Selection as > Object to make the lamp reusable in your project.
4. Verify the output using PhotoRendering.
   • Navigate to Document > Creative Imaging > PhotoRender Projection to check that the lamp’s lighting behaves as expected.

Adjust light Intensity via GDL script

If further control of the light intensity is required, particularly for more granular adjustments, you'll need to modify the object's GDL script. Here's how:

1. Open the Object's GDL Script:

   • Go to File > Libraries and Objects > Open Object.
     This opens the GDL editor, where you can customize the object's behavior.

   

2. Inside the GDL editor, go to the 3D tab.
3. In the script, search for the Spot Light definition. Under this section, locate the script for gs_light_intensity.
4. Adjust the value to match the desired lighting intensity.
   
5. After editing the script, close the GDL editor and make sure to save the changes. Your custom light object will now reflect the updated lighting levels.