Random Array for Blender

Cumulative Offset, Non-Cumulative Rotation, and Flexible Scale

Note: This is my first Blender add-on, so I’m especially looking forward to feedback and suggestions!

Overview

Have you ever wished Blender’s Array Modifier could scatter objects with some randomness? Look no further! My first add-on provides a live random array solution with easy customization:

• Cumulative Offset: Each copy steps away from the last, creating a natural “walk” of duplicates.
• Non-Cumulative Rotation: Random angles are always relative to the original’s orientation, giving consistent orientation with random twists.
• Flexible Scale: Toggle between per-axis randomness or a single uniform scale factor for all axes.

Live updates mean you can tweak parameters and see immediate changes—no more manually running an operator each time!

Key Features

• Real-Time Updates: Adjust counts, random seed, offset ranges, rotation ranges, or scale settings on the fly. Old duplicates are automatically removed, and new ones are created—instant feedback!
• Cumulative Offset: Each new duplicate’s location is offset from the previous one, perfect for “stepping” arrays.
• Per-Axis or Uniform Scale: Choose a single random factor for all axes (uniform) or separate random factors for X, Y, and Z (per-axis).
• Apply or Cancel:
  • Apply: Joins all duplicates (plus the original) into one final mesh.
  • Cancel: Removes all duplicates and restores just the original.
• Multiple Transforms: Random offset, rotation, and scale all in one panel—no more juggling multiple built-in modifiers.

What You’ll Get

• A .py file that you can install in Blender 2.80+.
• Lifetime updates—any future revisions or features I release for this add-on will be included at no extra cost.
• Friendly email support: Have questions or need help? I’m here!

Installation

1. Download the .py file from Gumroad after purchase.
2. In Blender, open Edit → Preferences → Add-ons.
3. Click Install..., select the .py file.
4. Enable the add-on in the list (search for “Randomized Array” if needed).

How To Use

1. Select a Mesh
   • In the 3D View’s N-panel (press N), look for the Random Array tab.
2. Enable & Set Parameters
   • Toggle Enable Random Array to start creating duplicates.
   • Count: Set how many copies you want.
   • Seed: Change this to shuffle the randomness.
3. Offsets (Cumulative)
   • Toggle Use Offset to move each duplicate from where the last one ended.
   • Set Min/Max X, Y, Z for random offset values.
4. Rotation (Non-Cumulative)
   • Toggle Use Rotation for random rotations (in degrees).
   • Each copy’s rotation = Original rotation + random angle.
5. Scale (Non-Cumulative)
   • Toggle Use Scale.
   • Uniform Scale: If checked, pick one random factor for all axes in [Min X, Max X].
   • Otherwise, randomize each axis separately based on [Min X, Max X], [Min Y, Max Y], and [Min Z, Max Z].
6. Apply or Cancel
   • Apply merges duplicates into a single final mesh and disables the add-on.
   • Cancel removes duplicates and disables the add-on without merging.

Use Cases

• Procedural Arrays: Quickly scatter objects in an organic, stepping pattern for scenes, environment assets, or abstract designs.
• Tiling with Variation: Great for randomizing repeating structures, like columns, fence posts, or stepping stones.
• Experimenting with Shapes: Instantly see how your object looks as a random swarm or chain—no manual duplication needed!

Requirements

• Blender 2.80+ (Works in newer versions too).
• Basic familiarity with Blender’s interface and the N-panel.

Support & Feedback

• Since this is my first Blender add-on, I truly welcome your feedback and suggestions!
• For questions or support, reach out via Gumroad or email me at: sarperdundar@gmail.com.
• I’m open to feature requests and improvements—your ideas can shape future updates.

Pricing & Licensing

• Personal license—use it for any of your personal or commercial Blender projects. Redistribution of the .py file itself is not allowed.
• Price: Free but you can donate for motivation.

Thank You!

Your support helps me learn and grow as a developer, allowing me to create more enhancements. I hope this add-on streamlines your workflow and sparks new creative possibilities in Blender!