In the Revit modeling process, the concept of a “family” is fundamental. It forms the basic building blocks of a project and acts as a carrier for parameter information.
Revit models are constructed based on these “families,” using component families to manage and modify project data parameters. This approach significantly enhances design efficiency. Each family can include multiple types, defined according to design requirements. The parameters, such as shape, material, and size, can be customized to different values. Each type within a family corresponds to an element and a set of parameter values known as family type parameters. By modifying or creating these parameters as needed, the elements gain various attributes and data.
Revit families are generally categorized into three types based on their usage and purpose:
1. System Families: These are predefined family types built into Revit software for use within a project. They can only be created or modified inside the project environment and cannot be loaded as external family template files. However, system families can be copied, pasted, or transferred between different projects.
2. Loadable Families: Autodesk Revit provides a family editor that allows users to create families by selecting from system-provided family template files. Users can then set various type parameters to fit the project’s requirements. Families created outside the project using these templates can be loaded into projects and are therefore called loadable families. These external family files have the extension “.rfa” and offer high customization, making them ideal when system family properties do not meet project needs.
3. In-Place Families: Also known as built-in families, these are created directly within the current project. Unlike loadable families, in-place families are stored only within the project and cannot be saved separately as RFA files. As a result, they cannot be reused in other projects.
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