Complete Workflow Solution for Using Shared Coordinates in Revit
Establishing shared coordinates between models and files is a common workflow that many users encounter. Specific steps may vary depending on project requirements and team standards. Here’s a practical approach to follow:
1. Create a Revit Project
Use this as the main model, which will be linked to other files and models throughout the project.
2. In the main model, perform the following steps:
a. Link the DWG file and position it center-to-center.
b. (Optional) Adjust the DWG geometry to align it relative to the Revit geometry as needed.
c. Retrieve the coordinates from the DWG file.
The DWG file usually contains the site design and defines grid coordinates using a measurement coordinate system. By acquiring these coordinates, you can accurately define measurement points within the host Revit model.
3. Model the design within the main model as required.
4. (Optional) Link additional Revit models to the main model—for example, models of other buildings within the same project.
a. Position the linked models relative to the main model as needed.
b. Publish shared coordinates to the linked models from the main model. When saving the main model, these coordinates will update the linked models accordingly.
5. (Optional) To provide civil engineers with a DWG file for reference, export the Revit model to DWG format.
In the Export Settings dialog, under the Units and Coordinates tab, select Coordinate System Fundamentals and choose Shared.
This ensures that when civil engineers open the DWG file, the shared coordinates allow the Revit model to align correctly with the site file.
6. (Optional) To maintain context between the site and the main model during ongoing work, architects can link both DWG files and the main model into their own Revit model.
In the Link dialog, set Positioning to Automatic – through shared coordinates.
This guarantees that when architects open the linked DWG files, the shared coordinates correctly align the Revit models with the site files.
Tip: Use the Visibility/Graphics settings to display linked files in half-tone, making it easier to distinguish them.
By opening the main model, you always see the latest updates from linked DWG files and Revit models. Sharing coordinates ensures all models are accurately positioned relative to each other throughout the project.
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