Dynamic Scripts in Dynamo for Revit

Script Overview

Concept

This tutorial explores how to create dynamic scripts in Dynamo that use the current date and time to automate element parameters in Revit, demonstrating practical applications of time-based automation.

The script uses the following main components:

1. Current Date and Time: We use the DateTime.Now node to get the current date and time, providing a temporal context to the operation.
2. Python Scripts: Two Python scripts are used to perform custom calculations.
3. Iterations and Angles: A code block calculates the angle based on iterations, generating a sequence of values.
4. Element Selection: The Select Model Element node allows you to choose the specific element whose parameters will be changed.
5. Parameter Setting: Finally, the Element.SetParameterByName node updates the parameter of the selected element with the calculated value.

Practical Applications

Use Cases

• Automatic adjustment of lighting parameters based on the time of day.
• Updating angles or positions in structural elements for simulations.
• Any scenario where automation can reduce manual errors and increase efficiency.

Code and Logic

Python Script 1 - Time Processing

import clr
clr.AddReference('ProtoGeometry')
from Autodesk.DesignScript.Geometry import *

import datetime

# Collect the current time
hora_atual = IN[0]  # Input from the "DateTime.Now" node
multiplicador_divisor = IN[1]  # Input for the multiplication/division value (Slider)

# Extract the current seconds value
segundos = hora_atual.Second

# Function to multiply and divide the seconds
def processar_segundos(segundos, valor):
    multiplicado = segundos * valor
    dividido = segundos / valor if valor != 0 else None  # Avoid division by zero
    return multiplicado, dividido

# Process the seconds
resultado_multiplicado, resultado_dividido = processar_segundos(segundos, multiplicador_divisor)

# Assign your output to the OUT variable
OUT = resultado_multiplicado

Python Script 2 - Value Adjustment

# Load the Python Standard and DesignScript Libraries
import sys
import clr
clr.AddReference('ProtoGeometry')
from Autodesk.DesignScript.Geometry import *

# The inputs to this node will be stored as a list in the IN variables.
valores_originais = IN[0]

# Place your code below this line
def ajustar_valores(valores):
    # Checks if the input is a list; if not, converts it to a list
    if not isinstance(valores, list):
        valores = [valores]
        
    valores_ajustados = []
    for valor in valores:
        if valor > 90:
            valores_ajustados.append(90)
        else:
            valores_ajustados.append(valor)
    return valores_ajustados

# Example of use:
valores_ajustados = ajustar_valores(valores_originais)

# Assign your output to the OUT variable.
OUT = valores_ajustados

Workflow

Process

1. Time Capture: The script captures the current time using DateTime.Now.
2. Processing: The seconds are extracted and processed through mathematical operations.
3. Value Adjustment: The values are limited to a maximum of 90 degrees.
4. Application: The final value is applied to the parameter of the selected element in Revit.

This example demonstrates how Dynamo can be used to create time-based automations, opening up possibilities for more realistic and dynamic simulations in Revit.