Version 3.8.3 - 01.10.2025
- Added a "deck" profile or option for handrails (with balusters) to the stair module.

Tutorial 61- Handrails for Decks (8:51 min.)

First look at handrail and post options for "deck" staircases:



I have some more work to do on the balusters or pickets but I should have this wrapped up by tomorrow and then back over to the Floor plugin.

The top run of stairs is set to the "Vertical" or post-to-post option, whereas the bottom run is set to "OTP". I've seen both variants when it comes to typical deck staircases. If there are others I can also add them in but I will start with these two for now.

Version 3.8.2 - 01.05.2025
- Added balusters to the stair module for vertical and OTP handrails.
- Added newel posts to the stair module for vertical and OTP handrails.

Tutorial 60 - Balusters, Posts and Handrails (16:39)

First look at over-the-post handrails with posts:

Tutorial 59 - Multi-Board Treads and Side Spacers (7:15 min.)

Version 3.8.1 - 01.02.2025
- Added additional sizes to the post module for steel square tubes.
- Updated the side spacer algorithm for stairs.
- Enabled wood grain texture for treads, risers, thrust blocks and stringers.
- Enabled a multi-board tread and spacing parameter for stairs.

Tutorial 58 - Open Treads and Starter Steps (7:35 min.)

I will give this some consideration.  I have been working on the stair module for a couple weeks but I will get back to the Floor plugin after the new year and be working on MPC trusses and the opening tool then address any other items on the todo list.

Version 3.8.0 - 12.30.2024
- Enabled open tread staircases.
- Added sub-menus for multiple stair runs for open treads.
- Added the following starter steps: square, full round and half round.
- Added a return parameter for square cut starter steps.
- Enabled flared handrails (over-the-post) for straight and curved flared staircases.

Version 3.7.9 - 12.26.2024
-  Added the inverted T-Shape landing.
-  Enabled straight and curved flared staircases.
-  Added 37 handrail fittings into the built-in handrail fittings library.
-  Updated the handrail module with additional parameters for over-the-post handrail systems.
-  Enabled additional handrail sub-menus for multi-landing stair assemblies.

Tutorial 57 - Over-the-Post Handrails and Fittings (18.42 min.)

So this is currently a specific limitation when it comes to handrails:



The issue here is that each run of stairs literally needs it own handrail sub-menu (set of parameters). Globally the handrail options are fine but as soon as you start adding landings you then have multiple stair runs and it quickly gets complicated. Note that the same handrail settings get applied to each run of stairs currently, this is less than desirable with complex stairs.

Of course the workaround for this is to not rely on the automatic landing functionality and create each separate run of stairs as a separate assembly (linear stair runs only). However this negates the convenience of having the landing and winder options that I recently added.

Yes, I'm a bit in the weeds now but I want this new handrail system to be as functional and fully featured and efficient as possible. I will need to put on my thinking cap and come up with a viable solution that is not too complicated (for a complex problem).

The handrail sub-menu now has a few more parameters:

Here is an excellent diagram showing the anatomy of a complex staircase:



When I talk about open tread here is what I mean, notice how the tread typically overhangs the staircase and the skirtboard is then applied below the treads, whereas with a boxed in stair case the skirt board is above the treads:



So I basically I want to add in an option for open treads (both, left or right) and also the starter step or bottom tread extension for turnout and volute type handrails, yes this is a can of worms for sure, but it is all very doable.

If I enable some turn outs and volutes I will need to adjust for these but also I need to provide some additional parameters so one can fine tune the placement of the handrail and its termination: