Families play a crucial role in enhancing BIM models. Before creating a family, it’s important to consider its unique attributes, focusing on universality, insertion points, and whether it attaches to the main structure.
1. Should Families Support Multiple Sizes?
Create custom families for components with a single configuration or those that cannot be parameterized. These families do not support multiple sizes and do not require parameterization. For components with several predefined sizes, developing a standard family that supports parameterization is ideal, as it can accommodate various size requirements.
The choice between custom and standard families largely depends on the variability of the component’s dimensions and the complexity of the parameters involved.
2. Does the Family Require a Host Element?
For elements that need to be hosted by other components—such as windows, doors, or steel bars—it’s essential to use a template based on the host element. Without this, family instances cannot be properly placed within the project.
3. Setting the Family Insertion Point
The insertion point defines the family’s origin within the project. Choosing an appropriate insertion point improves placement efficiency and simplifies the process. For example, when modeling a bridge, decide whether the main beam’s origin should be set at the bottom or the top plate. Similarly, determine if the cover beam’s origin aligns with the design elevation or if the bearing platform’s origin should correspond to the geological line.
In Revit, you can select standard component family templates or create custom families based on the project’s needs. Assigning parameters to these families allows the components to meet project constraints effectively. This approach also facilitates design modifications, component data management, and enhances modeling efficiency. The family creation process in Revit is illustrated in the image above.
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