The Revit family is essentially a collection of elements that includes both graphical representations and a set of shared properties. It acts as a carrier of parameter information and ultimately forms the foundation of a project. While parameters within the same family share the same names and meanings, their values can differ. Revit 3D models are made up of component families, which are placed in their respective positions within the project to collectively create the complete model.
The Revit modeling process resembles assembling building blocks: a family is composed of various shaped blocks that must meet specific requirements before the final form can be constructed. Similarly, when modeling in Revit, the first step is to establish a family library that meets the project’s needs. Next, input the appropriate dimensions for the family library, and finally build the 3D model within the project.
1. Modeling Tools
Common tools used for creating 3D models in Revit families include stretching, fusing, rotating, lofting, loft fusion, hollow stretching, hollow fusion, hollow rotation, and hollow lofting. By utilizing these shape tools to draft the model, applying the appropriate constraints, and adding parameters, families can be effectively adapted for use in complex projects.
2. Classification of Revit Families
Revit offers various types of building families, and users can also create or modify families within the software. These families are generally classified into three categories: system families, loadable families, and built-in families.
System families are predefined family types that come with the software. They can only be created and edited within project files, copied and pasted across different project templates, but cannot be saved as separate external files.
Built-in families are created within the current project file. They can only be saved and modified within that project and cannot be exported as standalone family types or used in other projects.
Loadable families are RFA files that can be created independently of project files using various family templates. These can be loaded into project files or other RFA files to form nested families, and their attributes and parameters can be customized. Loadable families are the most commonly used type for user customization. In this article, the caisson family and caisson reinforcement family are examples of loadable families.
3. Family Types and Parameters
Within Revit, a family can contain multiple family types, each with distinct geometric dimensions, shapes, or component quantities. Once loaded into a project, these family types can be selected and used individually.
The parameters within a family are categorized into type parameters and instance parameters.
Modifying type parameters affects all instances of that family type within the project, causing corresponding entities to update. In contrast, changing instance parameters only affects the current instance without altering other family types. In practical applications, type parameters are more commonly used due to their broad impact.
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up