Knowledgebase
This collection of articles is designed to be an evolving list.
More information will be added over time, and your comments
or questions are welcome. Please feel free to contribute.
Parameters drive Reference Planes which drive the Geometry
Reference planes should be created first prior to creating model geometry. Test (flex) the family (using the Family Types dialog) until it behaves as desired. THEN add geometry. Dimensions and labels (geometry-driving...
Read more...
18.03.2009
Locking Linework
You generally don't need to lock linework when drawing linework over reference planes. Only constrain (lock) such objects if you find that it is necessary in order to get the geometry to behave.
Read more...
18.03.2009
Sketching Profiles
When sketching profiles (eg. profile families, extrusions, blends, sweeps, floors, ceilings etc.) you must draw a single, continuous, closed loop. You can't have overlapping lines, and don't click more than once on existing...
Read more...
18.03.2009
System Families
Any system family can be edited via a sketch menu, eg. floors, ceilings, roofs, stairs, railings, ramps.
Read more...
18.03.2009
Defaults for Control (flip) arrows
Control (flip) arrows should reside on the external side of an object (eg. wall, curtain wall, window).Skill Indicative skill level: Basic/Intermediate/AdvancedBeginner
Read more...
18.03.2009
Study examples
Learn by studying examples. Pull them apart and modify them to create what you want. Explore the parameters to see what they change.
Read more...
18.03.2009
Family Types
You can create family types within the Family Types dialog, but it is better to use Type Catalogs when you expect to be making more than a few.
Read more...
18.03.2009
Area Measurement
An Area Scheme is simply a type of area that you want to measure (eg. Private Open Space).
Read more...
18.03.2009
Controlling Object Visibility
You can hide entire categories of objects from a view by selecting the object and using the VH shortcut. You can temporarily hide categories of objects by selecting an example and using the HH shortcut.From Revit Architecture...
Read more...
18.03.2009
Floor Plans and Internal Elevations
When creating internal elevations, it is customary to reference those internal elevations from a floor plan. Typically, you may also which to place a detail plan view onto the same sheet as the internal elevations for a...
Read more...
06.03.2009
Section Boxes
3D Views can have a 'Section Box' applied, which functions as a three-dimensional crop region.
Read more...
06.03.2009
Section Lines
Sections can be segmented and/or split. (Hint: Use the Options Bar)
Read more...
06.03.2009
Rapid access to Isometric Views
Adding shortcuts (to KeyboardShortcuts.txt) for quick access to Isometric views can save a great deal of time (particularly if you use a keypad).
Read more...
06.03.2009
Easy Orbiting of 3D Views
Orbit your 3D view by first holding down SHIFT then holding down your mouse wheel, then moving your mouse. You can keep your 3D view centred about an object (as you orbit) by selecting it first.
Read more...
06.03.2009
Optimise View Templates
Make optimum use of View Templates. These will tend to be evolving creatures in your first few projects. Build in the scale with their description, as they are scale-specific.
Read more...
06.03.2009
Use Dependent Views
Make appropriate use of dependent views (Revit Architecture 2008 onwards), but beware double-ups of view references (eg. section/elevation callouts) as you create dependent views.
Read more...
06.03.2009
Annotation Crop Regions
Annotation crop regions are separate to model crop regions since Revit Architecture 2008. They permit annotations to be seen within a geometric zone while prohibiting model objects from being seen. The image below highlights...
Read more...
06.03.2009
Creating Composite Views
You can create composite views by laying one over another, with some great results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with this technique. You may want to export some images and then import them back in after editing in other...
Read more...
06.03.2009
Don't Render views unnecessarily
Don’t waste time rendering a view if it doesn’t need to be rendered. Apply shadows and silhouette edges instead.
Read more...
06.03.2009
