Rhino 3D Tip: TransformAgain: Repeat Exact Move/Rotate/Scale Transforms Across Objects

Speed up repetitive moves with TransformAgain—an underrated powerhouse for iterating transforms consistently across your model.

What it does:

• TransformAgain reapplies your last transformation (Move, Rotate, Scale, Mirror, Shear, Taper, etc.) with the exact same parameters—distance, direction, angle, pivot, and options—to any newly selected objects.
• If your last transform used Copy=Yes, TransformAgain will keep copying instead of moving, perfect for ad‑hoc arrays.
• Use TransformAgainMultiple to repeat the same transform sequentially multiple times in one shot.

Why use it:

• Iterative layout: Nudge components by a fixed vector while exploring design options.
• Ad-hoc arrays: Build linear or rotational patterns without committing to Array commands.
• Consistent edits: Apply identical rotations/scales to different parts of an assembly, days apart, with guaranteed matching parameters.

Workflow:

1. Run a standard transform (e.g., Move a part 125 mm along X; Rotate 15° around a specific pivot; Scale1D by 0.85 with a base point).
2. Select any other objects that should receive the identical transform.
3. Type TransformAgain (create an alias like TA for speed). Rhino applies the same transform immediately—no re-picking, no retyping.
4. For multiple sequential repeats, run TransformAgainMultiple and specify how many times to apply it.

Pro tips from production workflows:

• Lock the pivot: Rotations and certain scales record the exact pivot point. All selected objects will rotate/scale about that same world-space point—ideal for assemblies.
• Copy mode: If your initial transform had Copy=Yes, use TransformAgain to “step-copy” components along a path without invoking ArrayLinear/Polar.
• Preselect to broadcast: Preselect multiple objects before TransformAgain to apply the same transform to all at once.
• Leverage CPlanes: Set a local CPlane before the first transform to define a meaningful axis system; subsequent TransformAgain calls will remain consistent.
• Combine with Named Selections: Save recurring groups, recall them, then apply TransformAgain for rapid design iterations.
• Undo safety: Each TransformAgain is a single undo step—iterate boldly, Ctrl+Z if needed.

When to prefer Arrays vs. TransformAgain:

• Use Arrays when the count/spacing is known upfront and uniform.
• Use TransformAgain when exploring, placing selectively, or mixing transforms at different stages without dialog overhead.

Suggested setup:

• Create aliases: TA = _TransformAgain, TAM = _TransformAgainMultiple.
• Pair with status bar constraints (Ortho, Planar, Osnaps) to guarantee precise repetition.
• Store typical pivot helpers as points or blocks to standardize rotations/scales over time.

Level up your daily Rhino efficiency with small, reliable wins like TransformAgain. If you need licensing, upgrades, or expert guidance on Rhino best practices, connect with NOVEDGE. Explore Rhino offerings and professional resources at NOVEDGE’s Rhino collection, and reach out to NOVEDGE Support for tailored recommendations.

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