How to have collection where collection origin is not world origin? [duplicate]

Question

I'm trying create a set of modular 3D pieces in one blender file that I can use to build scenes. My idea was to create a single file with the modular pieces and then create a second blender file that would link to them to create the scene. Because I need to export my scene as glTF, I need to import the pieces from my first file wrapped in collections (if I just import the object, the glTF exporter ignores any transform I make to the linked object).

I have carefully set the pivot points of my model pieces so that they can snap together easily. Unfortunately, if I put an object in a collection and that object is not at the world origin, when I import it the linked model includes the offset from the origin in my source file:

I can solve this by moving the model to the world origin, but that causes another problem - now all my model pieces are overlapping each other in a cluttered, unworkable mess. Is there a way for me to link to my model pieces without having to move everything to the world origin?

Answer 1

Seems like there is a way to do it. Once you add your object to a collection, you then move the 3d cursor to the place where you would like the origin to be, go into the Properties/Object Properties/Collections panel and then select Set Offset From Cursor from the drop down menu.

Answer 2

Manual Approach (No Python Script)

Lets assume you have Blender File [A]. We will create one additional File[B]

These steps will move objects to the world origin. Keep this technique in mind.

• Cursor to world origin
• Select objects and Move Selection to Origin. If items are parented then Blender manages this.

Next part

• Perform you work of Modelling in File[A] as usual.
• Copy File[A] to new Blender File[B]. [A] and [B] have distinct names.
• In File[B] use the move technique from above. File [B] is now the processed file with world origins at [0,0,0]. Save File[B].
• You may need to delete a previous File[B].
• You do not want to visually model with File[B] because many objects are near the origin.
• File[B] is the target of the file append or link

If often use local mode with numeric keypad /

I am not saying I agree with your analysis of the problem. People often make copies of files for archive purposes. File [A] could also have a Python script. The script or driver can set values on the delta transform or the primary transform in a particular location.

See the first comment below for additional.