This article explains how you can move existing parts in a Tekla Structure model using the Tekla Open API in VB.Net.

Step 1:

Add reference to the Tekla.Structures.Model and Tekla.Structures library located in the path “C:Program FilesTekla Structures20.0ntbinplugins” and manually open the tekla model. This has been covered in the article below:

• VB.Net Open Tekla Structure Model (Tekla Open API)

Step 2:

You will need to get reference to the part you wish to move. Below are some of the options for achieving this:

1  – Create a new part and keep a reference to the part: Insert Concrete Beam Using VB.Net (Tekla Open API)

2 – Get reference to an existing part in the tekla model: VB.Net Get Reference to Object, Tekla Open API

3- Ask the user to select parts from the model: Tekla Open API: Ask User to Select Objects.

Step 3:

Using the code below you will be able to move the part 2m in the X direction:

Imports TSM = Tekla.Structures.Model
Imports TSG = Tekla.Structures.Geometry3d

    ''' <summary>
    ''' Moves the input part, 2m in the X direction
    ''' </summary>
    ''' <remarks></remarks>
    Private Sub MovePart(ByRef objBeam As TSM.Beam)
        Dim objPoint1 As TSG.Point
        Dim objPoint2 As TSG.Point
        Dim appTekla As TSM.Model

        appTekla = New TSM.Model
        'get the current part coordinates
        objPoint1 = objBeam.StartPoint
        objPoint2 = objBeam.EndPoint

        'move the point 2m in the X directoin
        objPoint1.X += 2000
        objPoint2.X += 2000

        'assign the new points to the part again
        objBeam.StartPoint = objPoint1
        objBeam.EndPoint = objPoint2

        'apply changes
        objBeam.Modify()
        appTekla.CommitChanges()
        appTekla = Nothing

    End Sub

Lines 15 and 16 get the current start and end coordinates of the part. Lines 19 and 20 create new coordinates 2m in the X direction. Lines 23 and 24 assign the new coordinates to the part. Lines 27 and 28 apply the changes to the model.

Before:

After:

You can download the sample file and code used in this article from the link below:

• Move Part.Zip

If you need assistance with your Tekla model, or you are looking for a Tekla Open API programmer to hire feel free to contact me. Also please visit my home page  www.software-solutions-online.com