Rhino 3D Tip: Rhino.Python: Fast automation for repetitive tasks

Rhino.Python is the shortest path from “I wish Rhino could…” to “It does.” Learn just enough to automate repetitive steps, enforce standards, and create one-click tools that fit your workflow.

Why invest a few hours in Rhino.Python

• Speed: Replace multi-step clicks with a single command.
• Consistency: Scripted actions reduce errors and keep standards tight.
• Scalability: Batch-process dozens or hundreds of objects or files.
• Customization: Build tools that match your team’s language and process.

Getting started in minutes

• Open the editor: type EditPythonScript (Rhino’s Script Editor) or use Tools > PythonScript.
• Core library: import rhinoscriptsyntax as rs is your friend; it wraps common modeling actions.
• Run code: type RunPythonScript to execute a file, or run snippets directly from the editor.
• Attach to a button/alias: map a toolbar button or an alias to _-RunPythonScript "C:\\Path\\to\\YourScript.py".

Quick win example: Batch-name parts with a clean index

import rhinoscriptsyntax as rs

objs = rs.GetObjects("Select objects to name", preselect=True)
if objs:
    prefix = rs.GetString("Name prefix", "Part")
    for i, obj in enumerate(objs, 1):
        rs.ObjectName(obj, "{}_{:03d}".format(prefix, i))

Use this to keep BOMs tidy, drive export names, or simply maintain model clarity.

Other “five-minute” automations

• Standards setup: units, tolerances, template layers, and annotation styles in one shot.
• Batch export: loop through layers or block instances, export per item, append version/date.
• Selection helpers: select by area, length, display color, or custom user text.
• Curve hygiene: rebuild/simplify selected curves before surfacing for predictable results.
• View management: create/restore named views, set display modes, toggle clipping planes.

Practical tips for reliability

• Prototype on a copy of your file; scripts are powerful—and fast.
• Fail gracefully: check for None/empty selections before acting.
• Echo commands: print what the script is doing; it helps teammates trust the tool.
• Parameterize: use rs.GetString, rs.GetInteger, and rs.GetReal for reusable tools.
• Keep it small: one script should solve one clear problem; chain small tools for big wins.

Learn more, fast

• Rhino Python Guides: concise examples for rhinoscriptsyntax and RhinoCommon.
• Study the Command History to translate manual steps into code logic.
• Save snippets you like into a shared team library for repeatability.

Need Rhino licenses, plug-ins, or expert advice? Explore NOVEDGE for deals and guidance. Building a team workflow or a standards kit? Connect with NOVEDGE to discuss deployment, training, and compatible tools.

Pro move: start a “quality-of-life” list. Any task you dread twice goes on the list—and gets a 10–20 line Rhino.Python solution next. Your future self (and your deadlines) will thank you. For purchasing, upgrades, or to round out your toolchain, keep NOVEDGE on speed dial.