autodesk - autodesk revit 2014 family guide - 2013.pdf

5/19/2018 Autodesk - Autodesk Revit 2014 Family Guide - 2013.pdf

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Autodesk Revit 2014 Families Guide

June 2013


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Autodesk Revit 2014 Families Guide


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3Contents

Contents

Contents .................................................................................................................. 3

Workflow: Creating a Loadable Family .................................................................... 7

Understanding the Family Editor .......................................................................... 7

Planning a Loadable Family ............................................................................... 10

Flexing the Family Framework ........................................................................... 11

Testing the Family .............................................................................................. 12

Choosing a Family Template ................................................................................. 15

Creating a Family from a Template .................................................................... 17

Choosing a Category ............................................................................................. 20Cuttable Families ............................................................................................... 20

Non-Cuttable Families ........................................................................................ 21

Creating Family Subcategories .......................................................................... 21

Creating the Family Framework ............................................................................. 24

Defining the Family Origin .................................................................................. 24

Laying Out Reference Planes ............................................................................ 25

Defining Priorities for Reference Planes ............................................................. 27

Using Reference Lines ....................................................................................... 29Controlling Angular Dimensions with Reference Lines ....................................... 31

Dimensioning Reference Planes and Lines ........................................................ 32

Creating Family Parameters .................................................................................. 33

Family Category and Parameters ....................................................................... 34

Labeling Dimensions to Create Parameters ....................................................... 35

Creating Family Types ....................................................................................... 36

Creating Instance Parameters ............................................................................ 37

Adding Shape Handles to a Loadable Family ..................................................... 38

Using Formulas in the Family Editor ................................................................... 38

Adding Metadata to a Family .............................................................................. 39

Creating Family Geometry ..................................................................................... 40

Constraining Family Geometry ........................................................................... 40

Automatic Sketch Dimensions ............................................................................ 41

Visibility of Automatic Sketch Dimensions in the Family Editor ........................... 44

Duplicating Parameterized Elements ................................................................. 46

Assigning Family Geometry to Subcategories .................................................... 49

Managing Family Visibility and Detail Level ........................................................ 50


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4 Autodesk Revit 2014 Family Guide

Setting Family Geometry Visibility ...................................................................... 51

Annotation Labels .................................................................................................. 52

Editing Multi-parameter Labels ........................................................................... 52

Building a Label .................................................................................................. 53Shared Label Parameters .................................................................................. 53

Label Parameter Options ................................................................................... 53

Edit Label Unit Formats ...................................................................................... 54

Label Type Properties ........................................................................................ 55

Label Instance Properties ................................................................................... 56

Applying the Label to a Tag in a Project ............................................................. 56

Applying the Label to a Title Block in a Project ................................................... 57

Lookup Tables ....................................................................................................... 58

Managing Lookup Tables ................................................................................... 59

CSV File Structure ............................................................................................. 59

Revit MEP Components ........................................................................................ 60

Category ............................................................................................................ 60

Light Source ....................................................................................................... 61

Part Types .......................................................................................................... 62

Working with Connectors ................................................................................... 65

Placing a Connector ........................................................................................... 66

Selecting a Primary Connector ........................................................................... 68

Orienting a Connector ........................................................................................ 68

Linking Connectors ............................................................................................ 68

Unlinking Connectors ......................................................................................... 69

Deleting a Connector.......................................................................................... 69

Advanced Loadable Family Techniques ................................................................ 70

Nesting and Sharing Component Families ......................................................... 70

Nesting Restrictions ........................................................................................ 71

Nesting Families with Interchangeable Components ...................................... 71

Creating a Family with Nested Components ...................................................... 71

Creating a Family with Nested and Shared Components ................................... 72

Creating a Nested Family with Interchangeable Components ............................ 76

Associating Family Parameters .......................................................................... 78

Associating Parameters for Model Text .............................................................. 79

Loading Generic Annotations into Model Families.............................................. 80

Adding a Generic Annotation ............................................................................. 80

Creating a Work Plane-based Family ................................................................. 82


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5Contents

Creating Vertical Families .................................................................................. 83

Creating Specialized Families ............................................................................... 85

Creating a 2D Line-Based Detail Component Family ......................................... 85

Creating an Annotation Symbol Family .............................................................. 86Creating a Callout Head Family.......................................................................... 87

Creating a Curtain Wall Profile ........................................................................... 89

Creating a Detail Component Family .................................................................. 90

Creating a Division Profile Family ....................................................................... 90

Creating an Entourage Family ............................................................................ 91

Creating and Modifying Lighting Fixtures ........................................................... 92

Creating a Lighting Fixture with One Light Source .......................................... 92

Creating Lighting Fixtures with Multiple Light Sources .................................... 93

Creating a Profile Family .................................................................................. 115

Creating an RPC Family ................................................................................... 118

Section Head Family ........................................................................................ 119

Creating a Structural Column Family ................................................................ 120

Creating a Truss Family ................................................................................... 124

Creating a New Truss Layout Family File ..................................................... 125

Adding Truss Family Parameters .................................................................. 125

Sketching a Truss Family Layout .................................................................. 126

Creating a Type Catalog .................................................................................. 126


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Typically, the loadable families that you need to create are standard sizes andconfigurations of common components and symbols used in a building design.

To create a loadable family, you define the geometry and size of the family using a

family template that is provided inRevit. You can then save the family as a separate

Revit family file (.rfa file) and load it into any project.

Depending on the complexity of the family, the creation process can be time-

consuming. If you can identify a family that is similar to the one you want to create, you

can save time and effort by copying, renaming, and modifying the existing family.

The topics in this section apply to the creation of model (3D) families, but some are

relevant to 2D families, including titleblocks, annotation symbols, and detail

components.


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7Workflow: Creating a Loadable Family

Workflow: Creating a Loadable Family

Depending on the complexity of the family, the creation process can be time-consuming. If you can identify a family that is similar to the one you want to create,you can save time and effort by copying, renaming, and modifying the family tocreate the new family.

For best results when creating a family, use the following workflow.

1. Before beginning family creation, plan your family. Identify requirementsregarding family sizes, how the family displays in different views, whether ahost is required, the detail level to be modeled, and the origin of the family.SeePlanning a Loadable Family.

2. Create a new family file with the appropriate family template. SeeChoosinga Family Template.

3. Define subcategories for the family to help control the visibility of the familygeometry. SeeCreating Family Subcategories.

4. Create the family skeleton, or framework: Define the origin (the insertion point) of the family. SeeDefining the

Family Origin. Lay out reference planes and reference lines to aid in sketching

component geometry. SeeLaying Out Reference PlanesandUsingReference Lines.

Add dimensions to specify parametric relationships.SeeDimensioning Reference Planes and Lines.

Label dimensions to create type or instance parameters or 2Drepresentation. SeeLabeling Dimensions to Create Parameters.

Test, or flex, the skeleton. SeeFlexing the Family Framework.5. Define family type variations by specifying different parameters.

SeeCreating Family Types.6. Add a single level of geometry in solids and voids, and constrain the

geometry to reference planes. SeeCreating Family Geometry.7. Flex the new model (types and hosts) to verify correct component behavior.

SeeTesting the Family.8. Repeat previous steps until the family geometry is complete.9. Specify 2D and 3D geometry display characteristics with subcategory and

entity visibility settings. SeeManaging Family Visibility and Detail Level.10. Save the newly defined family, and then load it into a project for testing.

SeeTesting the Family.11. For large families that include many types, create a type catalog.

SeeCreating a Type Catalog.

Understanding the Family Editor

Revit Architecture

Revit MEP
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The Family Editor is a graphical editing mode inRevit that allows you to create

families to include in your project. When you start creating a family, you open a

template to use in the Family Editor. The template can include multiple views, such as

plan and elevation views. The Family Editor has the same look and feel as the project

environment inRevit, but features different tools located on a single Create tab.

You can access the Family Editor by:

Opening or creating a new family (.rfa) file. Selecting an element created by a loadable or an in-place family type, and

then right-clicking and clicking Edit Family. (You can also double-click afamily element to open it for editing.)

Family Editor Tools

The Family Typestool (Create tab Properties panel Family Types)

opens the Family Types dialog. You can create new family types or newinstance and type parameters. SeeCreating Family Types.

The Dimensiontools (Annotate tab Dimension panel) add permanentdimensions to the family, in addition to ones that Revit automatically createsas you draw the geometry. This is important if you wish to create differentsizes of the family.

The Model Linetool (Create tab Model panel Model Line) lets youdraw two-dimensional geometry for when you do not need to show solidgeometry. For example, you could draw door panels and hardware or ductas 2D rather than use solid extrusions.

Model lines are always visible in 3D views. You can control their visibility in plan andelevation views by selecting the lines and clicking Modify | Lines tab Visibility panel

Visibility Settings.

The Symbolic Linetool (Annotate tab Detail panel Symbolic Line)lets you draw lines that are meant for symbolic purposes only. For example,you might use symbolic lines in an elevation view to represent a door swing,or to represent the flow direction for a pipe fitting. Symbolic lines are not partof the actual geometry of the family. Symbolic lines are visible parallel to theview in which you draw them.

You can control symbolic line visibility on cut instances. Select the symbolic line, and

click Modify | Lines tab Visibility panel Visibility Settings. In the Familyelement visibility settings dialog, select Show only if instance is cut.

In this dialog, you can also control the visibility of lines based on the detail level of the

view. For example, if you select Coarse, the symbolic lines are visible when you load

the family into a project and place it in a view at the Coarse detail level.

Tip:Use this dialog to control visibility of generic annotations loaded into modelfamilies. SeeLoading Generic Annotations into Model Families.

The Openingtool (Create tab Model panel Opening) is available inhost-based family templates only (such as wall-based or ceiling-basedfamilies). You create an opening by sketching its shape to the reference

planes and then modifying its dimensions. After you create an opening, you
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can select it and set it to display as transparent in 3D and/or elevation viewswhen loaded into a project. You specify transparency on the Options Bar.

Note:The Opening tool is also available in the project environment.

The Reference Plane tool (Create tab Datum panel ReferencePlane) creates a reference plane, which is an infinite plane that serves as aguide for drawing lines and geometry.

The Reference Linetool (Create tab Datum panel Reference Line)creates a line similar to a reference plane, but that has logical start and endpoints.

The Controltool (Create tab Control panel Control) lets you placearrows to rotate and mirror the geometry of a family, after you add it to yourdesign. The following arrow controls are available on the Modify | PlaceControl tab Control Type panel (multiple selections are acceptable):

o Single Vertical

o Double Verticalo Single Horizontalo Double Horizontal

Revit rotates or mirrors the geometry about the origin. With 2 opposite-facing arrows,

you can mirror horizontally or vertically.

You can place the controls anywhere in the view. It is best to place them where it is

obvious what they control.

Tip:Controls are useful when creating a door family. The double-horizontalcontrol arrows change which side the door is hinged. The double-vertical controlarrows change the swing of the door from inside-out to outside-in.

Tip:Controls are useful when creating a pipe fitting family. The control arrowsallow you to flip the fitting horizontally or vertically.

The Texttool (Annotate tab Text panel Text) lets you add text notesto the family. This is typically used in an annotation family.

The Model Texttool (Create tab Model panel Model Text) lets youadd signage to a building or letters to a wall.

The Sectiontool (View tab Create panel Section) lets you create asection view.

The Componenttool (Create tab Model panel Component) selects

the type of component to be inserted into the Family Editor. After you selectthis tool, the Type Selector becomes active and you can select acomponent.

The Symboltool (Annotate tab Detail panel Symbol) lets you place2D annotation drawing symbols.

The Detail Componenttool (Annotate tab Detail panel DetailComponent) lets you place a detail component.

The Masking Regiontool (Annotate tab Detail panel MaskingRegion) lets you apply a mask that will obscure model elements when thefamily is used to create an element in a project.

The Solidtools: Extrusion, Blend, Revolve, Sweep, and Swept Blend

(Create tab Forms panel) let you create solid geometry in the family. The Void Formstool (Create tab Forms panel Void Forms) provides

access to tools that let you cut solid geometry in the family.


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The Labeltool (Create tab Text panel Label) lets you place intelligenttext in the family. This text represents a family property. When the propertyvalue is specified, it will show up in the family.

Note:This tool is available for annotation symbols only.

The Load into Projecttool (Create tab Family Editor panel Load IntoProject) lets you load a family directly into any open project or family.

Planning a Loadable Family

If you consider this list of requirements before creating a family, you will have aneasier time creating it. Because there are bound to be changes as you createfamilies, the Family Editor lets you make those changes without having to startover.

Will the family need to accommodate multiple sizes?

For a lighting fixture that is available in several preset sizes, or a bookshelf that canbe built in any length, create a standard component family. However, if you need tocreate a custom piece of equipment that only comes in one configuration, you maywant to create it as an in-place family, instead of a loadable family.

Size variability and the degree of complexity of the object determine whether youcreate a loadable family or an in-place family.

How should the family displayin different views?

The way the object should display in views determines the 3D and 2D geometrythat you need to create, as well as how to define the visibility settings. Determinewhether the object should display in a plan view, elevation view, and/or sectionviews.

Does this family require a host?

For objects typically hosted by other components, such as a window, lightingfixture, or rebar, start with a host-based template. How the family is hosted (or whatit does or does not attach to) determines which template file should be used tocreate the family.

How much detailshould be modeled?

In some cases, you may not need 3D geometry. You may only need to use a 2Dshape to represent the family. Also, you may simplify the 3D geometry of the modelto save time in creating the family. For example, less detail is required for a walloutlet that will only be seen in interior elevations from a distance than for a doorwith raised panels and a sidelight that will be seen in an interior rendering.

What is the originpoint of this family?

For example, the insertion point for a column family could be the center of thecircular base. Determining the appropriate insertion point will help you place thefamily in a project.


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Flexing the Family Framework

You can flex, or test, the parameters that you have applied to the family framework.

To flex the framework, you adjust the parameter values, making sure that thereference planes to which you applied the parameter change accordingly. Flexing isa way to test the integrity of the parametric relationships. Flexing early and often asyou create families ensures the stability of the families.

To flex the framework

1. Click Create tab Properties panel (Family Types).

The Family Types dialog displays. Although you have not defined any family typesyet, the dialog lists the parameters that you created.

2. Reposition the Family Types dialog on the screen, so you can view theframework.

3. In the Family Types dialog, under Parameter, locate the parameters that youcreated previously, and enter different values in each corresponding Valuefield.

4. Click Apply.

The family framework should adjust to reflect the updated parameter values.


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5. Continue to flex the framework by specifying different parameter values.

The more extensively you test the parameters, the more likely you are to create astable family.

6. When you finish flexing the framework, click OK.

Testing the Family

The complexity of the content that can be created in the family editor requires arobust testing plan to identify issues before the content is used in actual projects.The following general guidelines will help you improve the quality of your content.Additional testing may be required for specific family types.

In the Family Editor Test all family parameters to ensure that the geometry flexes/adjusts

correctly when the family parameters are modified. Test all family types - change the type, apply it, and inspect the geometry to

verify that the dimensions and relationships are maintained. In a host-based family, verify that the host flexes as expected. Change the

host thickness and ensure that the family geometry adjusts appropriately. Verify that the family preview image is using the Preview view. Check all views to ensure that the family displays appropriately in different

detail levels and when different Model Graphics styles are applied. Test constraints:


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o Test the shape handles on the edge of the geometry to make surethat all geometry is constrained to either a reference plane or areference line.

o Test the dimension parameter to make sure that the reference plane

or line is being adjusted by the parameter and not the actualgeometry.

In the Project Environment

Using a test project, load the family in a project environment and check allviews for any issues. (If the family includes a type catalog, use it to load thefamily.)

Inspect the family appearance in all views (plan, reflected ceiling plan,elevation, section, 3D) at all detail levels (Coarse, Medium, Fine).

Inspect the familly appearance in different Model Graphics Styles:Wireframe, Hidden Line, Shaded, Consistent Colors, and Realistic.

Test all family types - change the type, apply it, and inspect the geometry toverify that the dimensions and relationships are maintained.

Create new types and modify all parameters, checking all views for issues. Modify all material assignments to verify that materials are associated with

the geometry correctly.

Tip: To better inspect family geometry, change all material type parameters toglass. If any of the family geometry does not display as glass, then a materialparameter is assigned incorrectly.

Modify category and subcategory materials to verify the family is not usingmaterial type parameters.

For hosted families:

o Place hosted families into the provided host thicknesses and confirmfamilies work in all hosts appropriate to the family's use, including in-place walls and mass elements.

o Modify the host thicknesses by 25% - 400%, and check forunconnected geometry and/or plan representations that may bedisconnected from the geometry.

Re-inspect the family appearance in all views to ensure that the geometrydisplays as expected.

Dimension to all references and snap all references to walls. Create a test rendering. Test the following commands on geometry created in the family:

o Copy/Pasteo Rotateo Mirror

Verify that the family preview image is using the Preview view. Test the family in an actual project, verify its performance, and ensure that

the project matches the design intent of the family. Create a schedule to verify that the family schedules as expected.

Family-specific testing

Family Type Examples Test

Freely-placed Furniture, entourage Test in a relevant projectcontext.


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Family Type Examples Test

For example, placefurniture or casework

elements on a floor with atexture to ensure that theelements mask the floor.

Hosted Window, door Ensure that the familyinteracts properly with ahost and adjusts todifferent host thicknesses.

Face-based Light fixture Ensure that the familyattaches properly to faces

and doesn't improperlyembed in, or project awayfrom, the face of the objectto which it is attached.

Detail component Detail component Ensure that the familiysnaps to other geometrycorrectly and that it masksany geometry on which itis placed.


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15Choosing a Family Template

Choosing a Family Template

After you plan a family, your next step is to choose the template that you will base iton. When you create a family, you are prompted to select a family template thatcorresponds to the type of element that the family will create.

The template serves as a building block, containing the information that you needto start creating the family and that Revit needs to place the family in projects.

While most of the family templates are named according to the type of elementfamily created from them, there are a number of templates that include one of thefollowing descriptors after the family name:

wall-based

ceiling-based floor-based roof-based line-based face-based

Wall-based, ceiling-based, floor-based, and roof-based templates are known ashost-based templates. A host-based family can be placed in a project only if anelement of its host type is present.

Template Types

Review the following template descriptions to determine which one best suits yourneeds.

Template Description

Wall-based Use the wall-based templates to create components that willbe inserted into walls. Some wall components (such asdoors and windows) can include openings, such that whenyou place the component on a wall, it cuts an opening in thewall. Some examples of wall-based components includedoors, windows, and lighting fixtures. Each templateincludes a wall; the wall is necessary for showing how thecomponent fits in or on a wall.

Ceiling based Use the ceiling-based templates to create components thatwill be inserted into ceilings. Some ceiling componentsinclude openings, so that when you place the component ona ceiling, it cuts an opening in the ceiling. Examples ofceiling-based families include sprinklers and recessedlighting fixtures.

Floor-based Use the floor-based template for components that will beinserted into floors. Some floor components (such as a

heating register) include openings, so that when you placethe component on a floor, it cuts an opening in the floor.


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Template Description

Roof-based Use the roof-based template for components that will beinserted into roofs. Some roof components include

openings, so that when you place the component on a roof,it cuts an opening in the roof. Examples of roof-basedfamilies include skylights and roof fans.

Standalone Use the standalone template for components that are nothost-dependent. A standalone component can be placedanywhere in a model and can be dimensioned to otherstandalone or host-based components. Examples ofstandalone families include furniture, appliances, duct, andfittings.

Adaptive Use this template to create components that need to flexiblyadapt to many unique contextual conditions. For example,adaptive components could be used in repeating systemsgenerated by arraying multiple components that conform touser-defined constraints. When you select an adaptivetemplate, you are creating a massing family using a specialfamily editor in theConceptual Design Environment.

Line-based Use the line-based templates to create detail and modelfamilies that use 2-pick placement.

Face-based Use the face-based template to create work plane-basedfamilies that can modify their hosts. Families created fromthe template can make complex cuts in hosts. Instances ofthese families can be placed on any surface, regardless ofits orientation. SeeCreating a Work Plane-based Family.

Specialty Use a specialty template when the family requires uniqueinteraction with the model. These family templates arespecific to only one type of family.

For example, the Structural Framing template can only beused for creating structural framing content.

Deciding Which Template to Use

Don't limit your selection of a family template by category. Select the style ofhosting or the behavior that is required when choosing a template, and then changethe category to match the type of family needed. Additionally, some types offamilies require a special family template to function properly.

To create a... Select from the following template types...

2D family Detail Item

Profile Annotation
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To create a... Select from the following template types...

Titleblock

3D family thatrequires specificfunctionality

Baluster Structural Framing Structural Truss Rebar Pattern Based

3D family that ishosted

Wall Based Ceiling Based Floor Based Roof Based

Face Based

3D family that isunhosted

Line Based Standalone (Level Based) Adaptive 2-Level Based (Column)

Creating a Family from a Template

To create a loadable family, you select a family template, and then name and savethe family file. Name the family so it adequately describes the element that it isintended to create. Later, when the family is complete and you load it into a project,the family name displays in the Project Browser and the Type Selector.

You can save families to any local or network location. After you create families,you can use the Copy and Paste commands in Microsoft Windows Explorer tomove the families to different locations.

Note: Do not save the family to a location where others can access it until youcomplete and test the family.

To create a family with a template

1. Click New Family.

Note: If you are creating an annotation or titleblock family, click NewAnnotation Symbol or Title Block.

Depending on the current drawing units, the New Family - Select Template Filedialog displays the available imperial or metric family templates that are installed ina subfolder of this location:

%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Autodesk\\Family Templates

Note: Depending on your software installation or office standards, the familytemplates may be installed in another location, either locally or on a network.Contact your CAD Manager for more information.


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2. Optionally, to preview a template, select it.

The template preview image displays in the upper right corner of the dialog.

3. Select the family template that you want to use, and click Open.

The new family opens in the Family Editor. For most families, 2 or more dashedgreen lines display. These are reference planes, or the working planes that you willuse when you create the family geometry.

If you are creating a host-based family, host geometry may also display.


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4. In the Project Browser, notice the list of family views.

The family views vary depending on the type of family that you create. If necessary,you can create additional views by duplicating and renaming existing views.

5. Click Save As Family.6. In the Save dialog, navigate to the location in which you want to save the

family, enter a name for the family, and click Save.

Note: Use title case for the family name.


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Choosing a Category

Select the family category based on how the family is classified in the industry, thatis, how the part is ordered from a manufacturer. Typically, a Revit project willinclude a schedule of related parts organized by type of manufacturer.

For example, say you are creating a desk for an office environment. If this type ofdesk would be purchased from a system furniture manufacturer, then the familyshould be of the System Furniture category. The desk will schedule with the relateditems to be purchased from that type of manufacturer.

Cuttable Families

If a family is cuttable, the family displays as cut when the cut plane of a viewintersects that family in all types of views.

In the Family Element Visibility Settings dialog, there is an option calledWhen cut in Plan/RCP. This option determines if family geometry is shownwhen the cut plane intersects that family.

For example, in door families, the geometry for plan swing is set to beshown when the door is cut in plan views and not shown when the door isnot cut.

This option is never made available and is never selected for non-cuttablefamilies. For some cuttable families, the option is made available, and you

can select it. For other cuttable families, the option is never made available,but it is always selected.

The following table lists cuttable families and whether the option is madeavailable for that family.

Note: Not Applicable means the category is a system family that cannot bemade from a family template.

Cuttable Family Category Option MadeAvailable

Casework Yes

Ceilings Not Applicable

Columns Yes

Curtain Wall Panels No

Doors Yes

Floors Not Applicable

Generic Models No


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21Choosing a Category

Cuttable Family Category Option MadeAvailable

Roofs Not Applicable

Site Yes

Structural Columns Yes

Structural Foundations Yes

Structural Framing Yes

Topography No

Walls Not Applicable

Windows Yes

Non-Cuttable Families

The following families are not cuttable and are always shown in projection in views:

Balusters Detail Items Electrical Equipment Electrical Fixtures Entourage Furniture Furniture Systems Lighting Fixtures Mechanical Equipment Parking Planting Plumbing Fixtures Specialty Equipment

Creating Family Subcategories

When you create a family, the template assigns it to a category that defines thedefault display of the family (line weight, line color, line pattern, and materialassignment of the family geometry) when the family is loaded into a project. Toassign different line weights, line colors, line patterns, and material assignments todifferent geometric components of the family, you need to create subcategorieswithin the category. Later, when you create the family geometry, you assign the

appropriate components to the subcategories.


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For example, in a window family, you could assign the frame, sash, and mullions toone subcategory and the glass to another. You could then assign differentmaterials (wood and glass) to each subcategory to achieve the following effect.

In a plumbing fixture family, you could assign the sink to one subcategory and thefittings to another. You could then assign different materials to each subcategory.

Revit features some predefined subcategories for different categories of families.

Other families have no subcategories, which means that you can define your own.The Object Styles dialog lists family categories and subcategories. It also displaysthe line weight, line color, line pattern, and material assigned to each category andsubcategory.

Tip: You can apply a drafting pattern to a family. When you create and define asubcategory to apply to the family, you can specify its surface and cut patternmaterials to have a drafting pattern. You cannot apply a model pattern to a family.Only flat or cylindrical surfaces can have drafting patterns. SeeFill Patterns.

1. With the family open, click Manage tab Settings panel (ObjectStyles).

2. On the Model Objects tab of the Object Styles dialog, under Category,select the family category.

3. Under Modify Subcategories, click New.
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23Choosing a Category

4. In the New Subcategory dialog, for Name, enter a new name.

Revit automatically selects the appropriate category in the Subcategory of list.

5. Click OK.

Although you will not immediately create and assign the subcategory to the familygeometry, you can specify the line weight, line color, line pattern, and material forthe subcategory.

6. Specify values for line weight, line color, line pattern, and material: Click in the Projection and Cut fields for Line Weight, and select

values from the lists. Click the button in the Line Color field, and select a color from the

Color dialog. If desired, define a custom color. Click in the Line Pattern field, and select a line pattern from the list. If

desired, define a new line pattern for the line display. Click in the Material field, and specify a material, cut pattern, surface

pattern, or render appearance.

SeeMaterials.

7. To define additional subcategories, repeat steps 3 - 6.8. Click OK.
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Creating the Family Framework

After you plan a family, the next step is to create the family framework (skeleton).The framework is comprised of reference planes and parameters in which you latercreate the family geometry. It also defines the origin (insertion point) of elementsthat you create with the family.

To create the framework, you begin by defining the family origin. You then build theframework with elements called reference planes and reference lines. Next youdefine family parameters. The parameters that you define at this stage usuallycontrol the size (length, width, height) of the element, and let you add family types.

A view of a family framework

When the framework is complete, you test it by changing the parameter values andensuring that the reference planes resize. By creating solid frameworks from theinformation that you gather in your planning stage before you create the familygeometry, you ensure the stability of the families that you create.

Defining the Family Origin

After you create a component family, define the family origin and pin (lock) it inplace. Later, when you create an element with the finished family, the family origin

specifies the element insertion point.


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25Creating the Family Framework

The intersection of 2 reference planes in a view defines the origin of a family. Youcan control which reference planes define the origin by selecting them andchanging their properties. Many family templates create families with predefinedorigins, but you may need to set the origin of some families. For example, an

accessible toilet family that creates toilet elements must always be placed a certaindistance from an adjacent wall to meet code. Therefore, the family origin wouldneed to be located at the specified distance from the wall.

To define the family origin in a new family

To define the family origin in an existing family

1. In the Family Editor, verify whether an origin has been defined for the familyby selecting the reference planes and checking the Defines Origin propertyon the Properties palette.

If Defines Origin is selected for 2 intersecting reference planes, the origin is definedfor the family, and you can skip the remaining steps.

2. Click Create tab Datum panel (Reference Plane).3. Sketch the reference plane.4. Select the reference plane.5. On the Properties palette, under Other, select Defines Origin, and click

Apply.6. Create or open a family.7. In a plan view, while pressing Ctrl, select both reference planes.

8. Click Modify | Reference Planes tab Modify panel (Pin).9. With the reference planes still selected, on the Properties palette, select

Defines Origin.

The intersection of the reference planes now defines the origin/insertion point of thefamily. By pinning the planes, you ensure that you do not accidentally move them,which would change the family insertion point.

Laying Out Reference Planes

Before you create family geometry, you should sketch reference planes. You canthen snap sketches and geometry to the reference planes.

Position new reference planes so that they align with the major axes of the

planned geometry. Name each reference plane so that you can assign it to be the current work

plane. The name lets you see the reference plane so that you can select itto use as a work plane.

Specify the property for reference planes that lets you dimension to themwhen the family is placed in a project.


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A bookcase family created within a framework of reference planes

A flange family created within a framework of reference planes


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A metal deck family created within a framework of reference planes

To lay out reference planes

Click Create tab Datum panel (Reference Plane). Specify a start point and an end point for the reference plane. Name the reference plane so that you can identify it in when you open other

views:

o Select the reference plane, and on the Properties palette, underIdentity Data, for Name, enter a name for the reference plane.o Click Apply.

Defining Priorities for Reference Planes

Reference planes have a property called Is Reference. By setting this property, youspecify that the reference plane can be dimensioned or snapped to when you placea family into a project. For example, if you create a table family and want todimension the edges of the table, create reference planes at the table's edges and

set the Is Reference property for the reference planes. When you createdimensions for the table, you can then select the table's edges.

Is Reference also sets a reference point for dimensions when you use the Aligntool. Specifying the Is Reference parameter lets you select different referenceplanes or edges of aligned components for dimensioning. The Is Referenceproperty also controls if a shape handle is available on instance parameters in theproject environment. Shape handles are only created on instance parametersattached to reference planes with strong or weak strength.

To dimension or snap to a location on families placed in a project, you need todefine the references in the Family Editor. You set the reference plane attached to

the geometry as either strong references or weak references.


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A strong referencehas the highest priority for dimensioning and snapping.For example, you create a window family and place it into a project. As youare placing the family, temporary dimensions snap to any strong referencesin the family. When you select the family in the project, temporary

dimensions appear at the strong references. If you place a permanentdimension, the strong references in the window geometry highlight first. Astrong reference takes precedence over a wall reference point (such as itscenterline).

A weak referencehas the lowest priority for dimensioning and snapping.When you place the family into the project and dimension to it, you mayneed to press Tab to select a weak reference, as any strong referenceshighlight first.

A not a referenceis not visible in the project environment so you cannotdimension or snap to those locations in a project.

Table 1. System Defined Is Reference Values

Strong References Weak References Not a References

StrongReference

Left Center

(Left/Right) Right Front Center

(Front/Back) Back Bottom Center

(Elevation) Top

Weak Reference Not a Reference

If you create multiple families with the same Is Reference value for a particularreference plane, the dimensions to that reference plane apply when you switchbetween family components.

Examples

You create a table family and a chair family, and specify the left sidereference plane property value to Left for both of them. You place the tablein a building and dimension it from the wall to the left side of the table. If youreplace the table with the chair, the dimension to the left side would remainto the left side of the chair because they both had a property value of Left.

You create a toilet family and a sink family, and specify the left sidereference plane property value to Left for both of them. You place the toiletin a building and dimension it from the wall to the left side of the toilet. If youreplace the toilet with the sink, the dimension to the left side would remain tothe left side of the sink because they both had a property value of Left.

To specify the Is Reference value:


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Click Create tab Datum panel Reference Line (or Reference Plane), andsketch a line or reference plane.

Select the line or plane, and on the Properties palette, for Is Reference,select Strong Reference.

Note: The default reference property for all reference planes and sketched lines isWeak Reference.

Click Apply.

Using Reference Lines

You can use reference lines to create a parametric family framework to whichelements of the family can attach.

Examples Use reference lines to parametrically control the angle of a door swing.

Angular parameters applied to a reference line also control the elementsattached to its face.

A bookcase family featuring a door with a swing controlled by a reference line


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Use reference lines to control the angle of a curve of an elbow fitting.

An elbow pipe fitting family with an angle controlled by a reference line

Reference lines are datum objects with their own category. When selected, theydisplay dual faces. When printing, their visibility is affected by the Hide ref/workplanes option.

Straight reference lines provide 4 faces or planes for you to sketch on, one that isparallel to the work plane of the line, one that is perpendicular to that plane, andone at each endpoint. All planes go through the reference line. The planes displaywhen the reference line is selected or highlighted, or when you use the Work Planetool. When selecting a work plane, you can place the cursor over a reference lineand press Tab to switch between the 4 planes. The plane in which the line was

sketched always displays first. You can also create arc reference lines, but they donot define planes.


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Reference Line Behavior in the Project

After a family is loaded into a project, the behavior of reference lines is identical tothat of reference planes. Reference lines are not visible in a project and do nothighlight when the family instance is selected. They highlight and generate shapehandles in the same contexts as reference planes currently do, depending on theirReference property.

Selected reference line in multiple views

Controlling Angular Dimensions with Reference Lines

The preferred method to control the angular dimensions of a family is to apply alabelled angular dimension to a reference line. Unlike reference planes (with infiniteextents), a reference line has specific start and end points and can be used tocontrol the angular constraints within components such as a web truss, a door with

an instance door swing, or an elbow.

Loaded door family with an angular dimensioned reference line

To add and dimension a reference line

To add and align model geometry to a reference line


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1. In the drawing area (while in the Family Editor), add a reference line with thepoint of origin located at the point of expected rotation and align and lock theendpoint.

2. Add an angular dimension referring to the reference line.

3. Label the dimension.4. On the Properties palette, click (Edit Type).5. In the Family Types dialog, change the angular value for the labelled

dimension, and click Apply.

This is known as flexing the model. It is important to make sure the reference lineadjusts as expected before adding model geometry to it.

6. Set the current work plane to one of the faces of the reference line.7. Add the model geometry that you intend to have controlled by the angular

dimension.8. Flex the model to make sure the design works as expected.

The geometry moves with the reference line as the angle changes.

Dimensioning Reference Planes and Lines

The first step to creating family parameters is to place dimensions between thereference planes and lines of the framework to mark the parametric relationshipsthat you intend to create. Dimensions alone do not create the parameters; you mustlabel them to create parameters.

1. Identify the reference planes of the framework that you want to dimension to

create parameters.2. Click Annotate tab Dimension panel, and select a dimension type.3. On the Options Bar, select the desired dimension options.4. Place the dimensions between reference planes, or on reference lines.5. To constrain the distance of the dimension, select the dimension if it is not

selected, and click the lock symbol.

The lock works like a toggle, so clicking the symbol will lock or unlock theconstraint.

Tip: It is recommended to constrain all dimensions to ensure that the geometrybehaves as designed when the family is flexed.

6. Continue to dimension reference planes until all the parametric relationshipshave been dimensioned.

Tip: You may need to open different views in the family to create some of thedimensions.


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33Creating Family Parameters

Creating Family Parameters

You can create new instance parameters or type parameters for any family type. Byadding new parameters, you have more control over the information contained ineach family instance or type. You can create dynamic family types for increasedflexibility within the model.

To create parameters

1. In the Family Editor, click Create tab Properties panel (FamilyTypes).

2. In the Family Types dialog, click New, and enter a name for the new type.

This creates a new family type that will be available in the Type Selector when you

load it into a project.3. Under Parameters, click Add.4. In the Parameter Properties dialog, under Parameter Type, select Family

parameter.5. Enter a name for the parameter.6. Select a discipline.7. For Type of Parameter, select the appropriate parameter type.

Name Description

Text Completely customizable. Can be used to collect unique data.

Integer A value that is always expressed as an integer.

Number Used to collect miscellaneous numeric data. Can be definedby a formula. Can also have real numbers.

Length Can be used to establish the length of an element orsubcomponent. Can be defined by a formula. This is thedefault type.

Area Can be used to establish the area of an element orsubcomponent. Formulas can be used in this field.

Volume Can be used to establish the length of an element orsubcomponent. Formulas can be used in this field.

Angle Can be used to establish the angle of an element orsubcomponent. Formulas can be used in this field.

Slope Can be used to create parameters that define slope.

Currency Can be used to create currency parameters.

URL Provides web link to user defined URL.


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Name Description

Material Establishes parameters in which a specific material can beassigned.

Yes/No Used most often for instance properties when the parameter isdefined with either a Yes or No.

Family Type Used with nested components and allows you to swapcomponents after the family is loaded into a project.

Divided SurfaceType

Establishes parameters with which divided surfacecomponents (such as panels and patterns) can be driven.Formulas can be used in this field.

8. For Group parameter under, select a value.After the family is loaded into a project, this value determines which group headerthe parameter displays under on the Properties palette.

9. Select either Instance or Type. This defines whether the parameter is anInstance or Type parameter.

10. Optionally, if you selected Instance in step 9, you can select ReportingParameter. SeeReporting Parameters.

11. Click OK.

Family Category and Parameters

The Family Category and Parameters tool assigns the properties of a predefinedfamily category to the component you are creating. The tool is only available withinthe Family Editor.

Family parameters define behaviors or Identity Data that apply across all types inthat family. Different categories have different family parameters based on howRevit expects the component to be used. Some common examples of familyparameters that control how the family behaves include:

Always vertical:When selected, the family always appears vertical at 90

degrees, even if it is on a sloping host, such as a floor. Work Plane-Based:When selected, the family is hosted by the active work

plane. You can make any non-hosted family a work plane-based family. Shared:This parameter is only relevant when the family is nested into

another family and loaded into a project. If the nested family is shared, youcan select, tag, and schedule the nested family separately from the hostfamily. If the nested family is not shared, then components created by thehost family and nested family act as a single unit.

Identify Data parameters include Omniclass Number and Omniclass Titlewhich are based on the Omniclass Table 23 product classification.

To specify family parameters:
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1. In the Family Editor, click Create tab (or Modify tab) Properties panel(Family Category and Parameters).

2. From the dialog, select a family category whose properties you want toimport into the current family.

3. Specify the family parameters.Note: Family parameter options vary depending on family category.

4. Click OK.

Labeling Dimensions to Create Parameters

After you dimension the family framework, you label the dimensions to createparameters. For example, the dimensions below have been labeled with length andwidth parameters.

Labeled dimensions become modifiable parameters for families. You can modifytheir values using the Family Types dialog in the family editor. When the family isloaded into a project, you can modify any instance parameters on the Propertiespalette, or open the Type Properties dialog to modify type parameter values.

If a parameter exists in the family for the dimension type, you can select it as alabel. If not, you must create the parameter, specifying whether it is an instance ortype parameter.

To label dimensions and create parameters

1. While in the Family Editor, select the dimension.


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2. On the Options Bar, for Label, select a parameter, or choose , and create a parameter.

SeeCreating Parameters.After creating the parameter, you can use the FamilyTypes tool on the Properties panel to modify the default value, or specify a formula,

as required.

3. If desired, select Leader to create a leader line for the dimension.

Creating Family Types

Using the Family Types tool, you can create many types (sizes) for a family. To dothis, you need to have labeled the dimensions and created the parameters that aregoing to vary.

Examples

A bookcase family that creates 4 different bookcase types (sizes)
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A lighting fixture family with 4 different types (sizes)

Each family type has a set of properties (parameters) that includes the labeleddimensions and their values. You can also add values for standard parameters ofthe family (such as Material, Model, Manufacturer, Type Mark, and others).

To create family types

1. Click Create tab Properties panel (Family Types).2. In the Family Types dialog, under Family Types, click New.3. Enter the family name, and click OK.4. In the Family Types dialog, enter the values for the type parameters.5. Click OK.

Creating Instance Parameters

As you create families, you can specify labeled dimensions as instanceparameters; the parameters are modifiable when the family instance is placed in a

project. Labeled dimensions specified as instance parameters can also have shapehandles that display when the family is loaded into a project.

1. Sketch family geometry using Family Editor tools.2. Create dimensions for the family geometry.3. Label the dimensions. SeeLabeling Dimensions to Create Parameters.4. Select the dimensions and, on the Options Bar, select Instance Parameter.

Note: If you label dimensions by selecting a label on the Options Bar, you canselect Instance Parameter without re-selecting the dimensions.

5. Click Modify | Dimensions tab Properties panel (Family Types).

In the Family Types dialog, notice the new instance parameter. The (default) labelindicates the value for the instance parameter when you place the family in a
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project. For example, if you create an instance parameter called length with adefault value of 3000 mm, the family instance will have a length of 3000 mm whenplaced in a project.

6. Save changes and load the family into a project. Select an instance of the

family, and on the Properties palette, notice that the labeled dimensions areavailable for modification.

Adding Shape Handles to a Loadable Family

You can add shape handles to a component family that display when the family isloaded into a project. The shape handles let you resize the component in thedrawing area, instead of creating multiple types in the Family Editor. SeeControlsand Shape Handles.

Example of a generic component in plan and 3D views with shape handles added

To add shape handles to a component family, you must:

Add reference planes to the family. Add geometry so that the sketch of the geometry is aligned to the reference

planes. For the reference planes, verify that the Is Reference value is other than Not

a Reference. Add a dimension to the reference planes. Label the dimension as an instance parameter. Save the family and load it into a project. When you select the component in

the drawing area of the project, shape handles display where the referenceplanes are aligned and dimensioned.

Using Formulas in the Family Editor

1. In the Family Editor, lay out reference planes.2. Add dimensions, as required.

3. Label the dimensions. SeeLabeling Dimensions to Create Parameters.4. Add the geometry, and lock the geometry to the reference planes.

5. On the Properties panel, click (Family Types).
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6. In the Family Types dialog, in the Formula column next to the appropriateparameter, type the formula for the parameter. For more information aboutentering formulas, seeValid Formula Syntax and Abbreviations.

Adding Metadata to a Family

You can add metadata to the Type or Instance properties of a family in both theFamily Editor and in the project environment. Default parameters are provided forthe typical metadata attributes of a family, such as manufacturer, model,description, and cost, but you can add parameters as needed. SeeCreating FamilyParameters.This data can be included in schedules. SeeSchedules.

Additional parameters built into families allow linking to information not included inthe family.

The URLparameter allows you to provide the user with a direct link to themanufacturer's website by opening a link in the user's default web browserto the selected location. For example, if you are creating a manufacturer-specific window family you could link directly to the window specification onthe window manufacturer's website. Provide the full website address(http://www.somewhere.com/windows/model1234.html) to ensure the linkopens the desired page.

The Keynoteparameter refers to the defined keynote table to look up thevalues in a list of values. To specify the keynote table and make the settingsavailable to the family, in the Family Editor, click Manage tab AdditionalSettings drop-down Keynoting Settings. SeeKeynotes.

The Assembly Codeparameter opens a dialog with UniformatClassifications for you to choose from.
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Creating Family Geometry

You can use both 2- and 3-dimensional geometry to create families. Create solidgeometric shapes to represent the element that the family is intended to create.Use 2D linework to add detail to solid geometry in certain views or to create asymbolic plan representation of an element.

As you create the family geometry, you can specify the visibility, material, and anoptional subcategory of the geometry. These settings determine how and when thespecific geometric components of the family display.

To ensure the stability of each parametric family, build the family geometryincrementally, testing (flexing) the parametric relationships in each increment.

Constraining Family Geometry

As you are adding geometry to your component family, you need to constrain thegeometry to the parametric framework previously created. For the best results, thesketches of the geometry should be constrained to the reference planes driving theparametric relationships.

To constrain the sketch of a piece of geometry during creation, use the Align tooland select the specific reference plane and the sketch line to establish theconstraint. When the lock symbol displays, click it to lock the constraint. If the

constraint is labeled, then the parameter created from the constraint will allow thegeometry to adjust with changes to the parameter.


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41Creating Family Geometry

Automatic Sketch Dimensions

Revit creates automatic dimensions to help control your design intent. These

automatic dimensions are not displayed by default.To turn them on, select Automatic Sketch Dimensions on the AnnotationCategories tab of the Visibility/Graphic Overrides dialog. You can then modify thedimensions or create your own dimensions using the Dimension tools. You canalso lock dimensions to keep a distance constant. This is useful if you plan to haveseveral sizes of the family and want to keep certain dimensions constant while thefamily changes size.

Effects of Automatic Dimensions on Your Geometry

When automatic sketch dimensions constrain geometry to reference planes, youmay see some unexpected behavior in your project. The automatic sketchdimensions are Revit's way of solving how to grow or shrink geometry based onchanges in value of a family parameter.

Example

You have added a rectangular window to a fire door that has a labeled dimensionfor the width, but you have not dimensioned the window.


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You decide to change the width of the door, but you want the window width to staythe same. You expect its position to remain unchanged; however, observe whathappens when you increase the width of the door using the Family Types tool.


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In this example, the window is constrained to the centerline of the door and theright side of the door panel, both of which are represented by reference planes. Thewindow's position remains fixed relative to those reference planes.

To see the automatic sketch dimensions, edit the sketch of the window and turn onthe visibility of the dimensions. You will see how the vertical sketch lines of thewindow are dimensioned to the center and right reference planes.


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Image legend:

1. Auto sketch dimension to right reference plane.2. Auto sketch dimension to center reference plane.

To achieve the desired results, add locked dimensions. For example, you could adda locked dimension for the width of the window and a locked dimension from thewindow to the right reference plane.

Visibility of Automatic Sketch Dimensions in the Family

Editor

Automatic sketch dimensions are turned off by default. They display if there is atleast one labeled dimension in the family.

Notice in the following image that there is a dimension added to the geometry, butthe dimension has no label.


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No automatic sketch dimensions are visible.

To turn on visibility of automatic sketch dimensions

1. While in sketch mode, click View tab Graphics panel(Visibility/Graphics), or type VG.

2. On the Annotation Categories tab of the Visibility/Graphic Overrides dialog,expand the Dimensions category, select Dimensions, and select AutomaticSketch Dimensions.

3. Click OK.4. Place and label a dimension.

The automatic sketch dimensions display.

Revit now knows where each line of this geometry exists with respect to reference

planes or other sketch lines.


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As you add locked dimensions, they replace the automatic sketch dimensions, asshown.

Duplicating Parameterized Elements

When creating a component in the Family Editor, you often need to create identicalelements that are controlled by the same parameters, such as labelled dimensionsor visibility parameters.

Examples

If you create a window family with muntins controlled by a visibility

parameter, you can create the first muntin, apply the visibility parameter toit, and then copy, array, or mirror the muntin. The visibility parameter of theoriginal muntin is applied to the duplicated muntins.

If you create a lighting family with lighting fixtures controlled by a visibilityparameter, you can create the first fixture, apply the visibility parameter to it,and then copy, array, or mirror the fixture. The visibility parameter or theoriginal fixture is applied to the duplicated fixtures.

If you copy, array, or group a parameterized element, the parameters that controlthat element are also copied.

In the example shown below, a generic family was created with 2 extrusions. Thebottoms of both extrusions are aligned to the horizontal reference plane. The heightof the large extrusion is controlled by the labelled dimension H. The height of thesmaller extrusion is controlled by the labelled dimension (H/2). In the Family Types


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dialog, a formula was added to the (H/2) parameter to make it equal to Height/2. Inaddition, a visibility parameter was created and applied to the smaller extrusion,which has a split and painted face.

Elements controlled by parameters (labelled dimensions in this case)

Continuing with the example shown above, to create a series of elements identicalto the sub-height element, you can copy, array, or mirror the element, and theassociated parameters are copied with it. In the image below, you can see that thesmaller element was arrayed and the labelled dimension, painted face, and visibilityparameters are applied to each arrayed element.


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Array of parameterized

autodesk - autodesk revit 2014 family guide - 2013.pdf

Documents

family parameters

family guide

loadable family

family editor

family category

family framework

family template

family subcategories