You can import ACIS Solids using SAT file format directly into a project file or into a family file. When imported in the project, these 3D shapes can be assigned a Revit category which allows more intelligence in the model than other file formats imported into Revit from other applications.
Video Tutorial
Learn about how to import a 3D SAT file into Revit and assign it a Revit Category with this Video Tutorial – by Autodesk
Some architects like to begin their design in CAD software tools. CAD drawings are then imported/linked in Revit to be used as references/underlay. REVIT model geometry is then built by tracing over elements in CAD file. Another popular reason to import CAD files into Revit is to use them for detailing purposes. If you already have some details drafted in CAD, you may import them in Drafting view and use them in Revit. These imported details will not be converted to Revit details and thus would lack the features of Revit. But, you can still use them as they are.
You can either import a CAD file or you can link it. If you expect the CAD file to change, it is best to link it. If the CAD file is revised, then you can simply reload the linked files in Revit and see those changes. However, if you do not expect the CAD file to change, it is best to Import it.
Video Tutorial
Learn how to link layouts created in a CAD drawing into Revit with this Video Tutorial – by Balkan Architect
Truss in Revit is a loadable family that consists of sub elements such as top chord, bottom chord and web members. The family is a 2D profile assembly made from these elements. When you load the family into the project, you can assign which structural framing member(beam family) to use for each of these sub elements in the type properties of the truss. Each member can individually be selected and edited as well.
Video Tutorial
Learn about how to add a truss to a project with this Video Tutorial – by Balkan Architect
Learn how to add a truss and attach it to other elements in the project with this Video Tutorial – by Autodesk. Although, this tutorial has been created using Revit 2011, the method shown here is applicable for all Revit versions 2011 and above.
Learn about how to create a custom Truss family with this Video Tutorial – by Balkan Architect
Beam Systems in Revit allow you to quickly create structural beams that contain a series of individual beams placed in parallel to the model.
Video Tutorial
Learn about creating beam systems in your project using this Video Tutorial – By Autodesk Building Solutions. Although, this tutorial has been created using Revit Structures 2011, the method shown applied to all Revit versions 2011 and above too.
Learn how to create beam systems and structural floor in this video tutorial – by Autodesk Building Solutions
Beams area under the category Structural Framing in Revit. For a typical building structure, it is better to add Grids and Columns before adding Structural beams to your project for easier references. When adding a beam to a plan view, adjust the View Range so that the bottom clip plane is below the current level. This will allow the visibility of the beams in your view. Alternatively, you can also use a structural template where the view range is already adjusted to view the beams.
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