How to Set Up a Closed Circular Parametric Array Model in Revit
When creating families in Revit, the Array command is often essential. But how do you use the Array command to draw a closed circular array and parameterize the number of instances? Here, we will guide you through the process step-by-step.
If you have experience with Revit, you’re likely familiar with the Array command. You can find it easily under the Modify tab in the toolbar.
Start by clicking the Array command, then select the model you want to array. Press Enter or Space to open the array property settings.
In the settings bar, choose the Radius option to create a circular array arrangement.
Next, set the number of instances to your desired value (note that it should be between 3 and 20).
Then, move to the option Set as Last to define the last element’s position in the array.
At this point, do not set the angle yet. Many users wonder why the angle setting is skipped for now; we will explain using an example.
Typically, when setting up an arc-shaped array, you set the angle and then click Location to define the rotation center.
However, this approach does not complete the array command properly for a full 360° rotation. A manually drawn closed circular array stops at the last position and doesn’t achieve full parameterization.
Therefore, skip setting the angle for now. Instead, select Rotation Center, then define the rotation center point. After that, set the angle to 360 degrees and press Enter to complete the array command.
Upon inspection, you will see that the total number of instances created is 6, which matches the requirement. Importantly, the last instance does not overlap with the first.
Now let’s parameterize the number of array instances. Hover over the array path until it highlights, then click on the path to modify the number of instances. Choose Add Parameter…
Under the Project tab, open the Family Types dialog box.
Adjust the array count parameter and verify the changes.
You will observe that the number of array instances can now be parameterized and modified smoothly.
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