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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 1 - What is Architecture?


Architecture is the study of buildings. Since we humans do not have fur, feathers, or shells for protection from the elements, we have needed buildings as shelter for thousands of years. Buildings contain our living and working spaces and the places where we congregate and interact in small or large groups such as markets, churches, arenas, transportation hubs, schools, and hospitals.

History
Architecture began with urban civilization when people started farming crops for food and living in settled towns and cities near their fields. Urban life offered protection, and gave rise to social classes and trades. Builders and planners began to create orderly arrangements that grew into cities.

Mary Draper

With the rise of rulers and governments came the first building codes. If a builder in ancient Babylon constructed buildings that collapsed (always a concern in the seismically active Middle East), he ran the risk of having his own house destroyed as a penalty. Rulers could command the wealth of large populations through taxes, and ordered large buildings to be constructed as symbols of power and majesty. Many of these buildings were palaces or luxurious dwellings, but others had religious or mystical significance.

Process
As soon as builders understood the basic principles of structure and began to create large covered spaces that could hold gatherings of people, designers became aware of the effects that buildings can have on human feelings. Everyone responds to the space and proportion, light and color, materials and acoustics, and the patterns and rhythms of buildings. The best architecture from ancient times to the present, whether simple or sophisticated, strives for a sense of harmony while fulfilling a practical need. Building design across the world reflects the differences between cultures, climates, and available materials. Tastes change constantly, in a never-ending cycle, from plain to highly ornamented and back again. Shown in the image below are urban residences from Europe and Australia.

Mary Draper

Autodesk Design Academy Unit 1 - What is Architecture?

Christopher Fox

Architecture has subdivided into many specialty fields over the years. Requirements vary widely between residential and commercial buildings, for example, or between bus stations and airports. Landscape architects concentrate on the spaces between buildings.

John Kostick

Unit 1 - What is Architecture?

Interior designers finish the spaces inside buildings.

Mary Draper

Urban planners determine the arrangement and function of groups of buildings. This 1836 concept map defined a central business district, traffic patterns, residential areas, and parklands that are still in place in a city of more than a million inhabitants.

Autodesk Design Academy Unit 1 - What is Architecture?

Tools
Building designers have experimented with and refined the tools of their trade, from the time lengths were measured against parts of the human body and drawings were on parchment, up to the present day. Computerized measurements can now be extremely accurate; designs can be developed, pictured, and shared electronically all over the world. Designers have always created building forms that are challenging both to construct and to look at. Now the computer makes analysis of structural needs and stresses more quickly and more accurately than ever before.

Mary Draper

Large buildings have become incredibly complex, as they have to contain complete systems for transportation, climate control, communications, power, water supply, and waste. Digital tools enable the vast amount of information needed to design and document modern buildings to be collected with efficiency.

Mary Draper

Unit 1 - What is Architecture?

Autodesk Design Academy Unit 1 - What is Architecture?

Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 2 - Software Tools


About This Unit
This unit explains the main components of Autodesk Revit Architecture software. It begins with illustrations of model objects, mass objects, dimensions and the ribbon interface. There are exercises that demonstrate how to work with the properties of views and model objects, and how to create your own building elements. After completing this unit, you will be able to: s Navigate the user interface: View window, Project Browser, ribbon tools, Options Bar. s Place, locate, and modify model elements. s Use dimensions to control model elements. s Place and modify mass elements. s Create building elements from mass elements. s Open different views. s Change view displays. s Change view properties. s Adjust Advanced Model Graphics. s Access, load, and place a family from a library. s Change type properties of a family. s Create an in-place family. Unlike pencil and paper, software tools for design are complex applications that evolve continually. However, just as with pencil and paper, good design sense and drafting technique are necessary for success. Good technique requires learning how tousethe software properlyin orderto represent the design concept efficiently and accurately.

Lessons
s s s s s

Conceptual Design by Sketching Building Elements Conceptual Design with Mass Models Annotations and Dimensions Display and Navigation Working with Views and Objects

Introduction

Conceptual Design by Sketching Building Elements


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Draw walls in a building project. s Describe the tools for placing building elements. s Constrain placement of objects.

Key Terms
align building element constraint equidistant vertical wall

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Design Using Elements


Buildings are often designed inside out. This means that the designer concentrates on functional or spatial requirements for interiors and the relationships between rooms or spaces, rather than the shape of the building as seen from outside. In cases like this, sketching walls in plan view is the most efficient way to start a conceptual design. Doors, windows, stairs, and other elements are then fit in or between walls as part of the design development process. Revit Architecture software makes locating walls as easy as drawing lines.

Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

When sketching walls, the display shows editable distances and angles, and the cursor reads geometric features (endpoints, intersections, midpoints) and relationships (vertical, horizontal) to use in constraining the sketch.

Distances can be adjusted at any time.

Conceptual Design by Sketching Building Elements

Constraints that preserve relationships can be applied.

Other building elements such as doors, windows, floors, stairs, roofs, furniture, and equipment can be loaded in from content libraries or sketched in place. The Build panel on the Home tab contains tools for populating the design.

You can add building elements in plan, elevation, section, and 3D views.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

While components are being sketched, or at any time after, relationships can be established that make editing efficient. In the illustration shown, windows are being aligned center to center and locked together. If one is moved, the other will move as well.

In the two illustrations shown, windows placed in a wall are set to be equidistant.

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If the left side wall is moved, all the windows obey their constraints.

In essence, parametric design establishes rules that govern elements as a design evolves.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Conceptual Design with Mass Models


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Open the Massing & Site tab. s Place a predefined Mass family. s Use the In-Place Mass tool. s Use tools to create building elements from masses.

Key Terms
Curtain System In-Place Mass Mass Floor Massing & SiteTab Model by Face Place Mass Show Mass Solid Form Void Form

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

About This Lesson


After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Draw walls in a building project. s Describe the tools for placing building elements. s Constrain placement of objects.

Design Using Form

Conceptual Design with Mass Models

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Many factors determine the form or shape of a building. Designers often decide on the form of a proposed building before determining its interior spaces. This can be in response to the site or to building restrictions, such as distance requirements from roadways. Tall building designs must frequently satisfy setback regulations that affect the shape of towers. A designer, owner, or client may have a preconceived idea about the shape, size, or form of a proposed building that drives the design process. The ability to provide clients and reviewing authorities with comprehensible 3D sketches early in the design process is important to the success of a project. Revit Architecture has tools that enable designers to create 3D building shapes, or masses, quickly. There are mass families available to load into a project, you can create in-place masses, and there is a conceptual mass family editor environment. Masses can be edited in many ways, and then converted into building components such as floors, walls, roofs, and curtain systems. Working with masses is covered in greater detail in Getting Started.

The Massing and Site tab


The Conceptual Mass panel on the Massing & Site tab holds tools for placing mass families or starting in-place masses.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Place Mass
Place Mass enables you to load in predefined mass families from the Revit Architecture library.

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Masses placed in a project this way have properties you can edit.

In-Place Mass
In-Place Mass opens the Model-In-Place Mass tab.

Here you can create a combination of solid or void forms to define a named mass object.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Create Building Elements from Masses


Model by Face opens tools to create building elements such as floors, walls, roofs, and curtain systems by selecting faces of, or within, masses.

Vertical exteriors can be converted to walls using Model by Face > Wall.

When a mass has been placed or created in a project, you can create a Mass Floor for each level that can then be converted into a floor.

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Mass Floors can be converted to floors using Model by Face > Floor.

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Model by Face > Curtain System enables you to convert nonvertical or torqued faces into editable panel systems that can become finished walls.

Model by Face > Roof converts horizontal or nearly horizontal faces into roofs.

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The Show Mass icon on the Conceptual Mass panel toggles display of masses on and off. To print a mass displayed in a view, the correct Mass category must also be set visible in the View Properties.

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This lesson provided an overview of how to create and place mass models using the Massing & Site tab.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Annotations and Dimensions


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Describe standard and custom symbols. s Recognize temporary dimensions. s Explain the use of dimensions.

Key Terms
annotations Cartesian family permanent dimension spot coordinate spot elevation symbol temporary dimension text

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Annotations
Designs and illustrations of building projects are incomplete without the specific instructions given by annotations and dimensions. Annotation includes text notes, legends, tags, and symbol heads.

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Revit Architecture supplies a library of annotation symbols organized by family. Each symbol family file (*.rfa) can be opened and edited, and all instances of the family loaded into a project will update.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

The user can also create custom symbol families using supplied family template (*rft) files.

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Dimensions
Revit Architecture uses temporary dimensions for sketching, and permanent dimensions for annotating. Permanent dimensions can be linear, radial, or angular. Dimension controls display on the Options Bar.

Permanent dimensions can be used to modify the model.

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Revit Architecture models do not contain a Cartesian (x,y,z) coordinate system, but can be located precisely in vertical or horizontal space by assigning coordinates. The following illustrations show how a project's main level is assigned a real-world elevation, and how other levels change display accordingly.

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Spot elevations and spot coordinates (for plans) are also available.

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This lesson provided an overview of systems for annotations and dimensions.

Annotations and Dimensions

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Display and Navigation


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able: s Identify the elements of the Revit Architecture screen display. s Navigate views by using the Project Browser. s Use Properties and View Controls to adjust the display. s Open tabs on the ribbon. s Work with tool buttons, the Type Selector, and Options Bar. s Open and use ribbon tabs. s Work with context tabs and the Options Bar.

Exercises
s s s

View Controls Work with Families Create Custom Families

Key Terms
context tabs elevations floor plan Options Bar Properties palette ribbon tabs Type Selector View Control Bar

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Navigating the Ribbon Interface


This exercise illustrates how you locate and select tools to create your building design.

The Ribbon
The special area of the user interface to access tools in Revit Architecture is the ribbon. The ribbon sits above the drawing window. Its position is fixed. You activate tabs on the ribbon to access the commands within them. Some commands will not be active (that is, they are greyed out and unresponsive) in certain conditions. Tools specific to elevation views will not be active in plan views, for instance.

Ribbon Tabs
The ribbon consists of the following nine tabs: s Home s Insert s Annotate s Structure s Massing & Site s Collaborate s View s Manage s Modify The Home tab includes common building components such as walls, windows, doors, beams, and rooms.

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The Insert tab provides commands for linking and importing external content.

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The Annotate tab enables you to place dimension, detailing, symbols, and text.

Structure
The Structure tab has tools to place beams and beam systems, structural walls, columns, slabs, trusses, braces, and foundations.

The Massing & Site tab enables you to create masseswhich are different from building objectsand to create or modify 3D site forms.

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The Collaborate tab includes tools for working with others.

The View tab has tools for creating views and changing them.

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The Manage tab provides dialog boxes for changing settings, materials, and parameters.

The Modify tab has tools for you to work with items in a project: editing, copy/paste, and inquiry.

Context tabs display as you work. The Modify|Place Wall context tab is shown.

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Display and Navigation

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Application Menu
The application menu opens when you click the Revit icon in the upper left corner of the screen. This menu has file management tools such as New, Open, Save, Print, and Close. The Close option on the application menu is the effective way to close project files.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Revit Architecture Screen Display


This lesson shows you specific areas of the Revit Architecture user interface and describes their functions. The following images identify the basic interface components for Revit Architecture:

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A new file opens by default to a floor plan view at Level 1, with four elevation markers visible. The elevation markers control the building elevations already listed in the browser. Ceiling plan views for Levels 1 and 2 are generated automatically, along with a floor plan view for Level 2 and a site view.

The Project Browser


The Project Browser displays the contents of the model file in a logical tree structure. The browser provides views of your building model along with legends, schedules, sheets, families, and groups. Legends, schedules, and sheets are views that will be discussed in later lessons.

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Available views include: s Floor plans s Ceiling plans s 3D views s Elevations s Sections s Detail views s Renderings s Drafting views s Walkthroughs s Area plans Families are named collections of content (such as doors and windows) or settings (such as text or dimensions). Groups are user-created collections of content (such as a room full of furniture) treated as one object for convenience in handling.

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The Project Browser can be resized or undocked. To toggle the Project Browser on/off, click the User Interface button located on the View tab, Windows panel on the ribbon. A check mark indicates it is visible.

The Status Bar


Below the Project Browser is the status bar. This works with the tooltips that appear under the cursor when you pass the cursor over items or select things. The status bar displays hints and instructions as you work. The status bar also holds controls for Worksets and Design Options when these have been activated in a project, and a selection filter counter at the far right end.

View Control Bar


View scale, level of detail, visual style, sun settings, shadow display, rendering (in 3D views), cropping, hide/isolate and display hidden item controls are specified individually for each view of the model. Icons for these tools are found on the View Control Bar at the lower left of the view window above the status bar.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

View scale determines the amount of space the view takes when placed on a plotting sheet. To change the scale of a view, place the cursor over the View Scale readout on the View Control bar and click. Select the desired view scale from the list.

Level of detail determines the display of cut objects in plan views. The interior structure of a wall will show at Medium and Fine, but not at Coarse. The Detail Level control is to the right of the View Scale control on the View Control bar.

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The following image shows walls of a complex type displayed at Coarse and Medium detail:

The Visual Style control is to the right of the Detail Level control. It enables you to switch between Wireframe, Hidden Line, Shaded, Shaded with Edges, Consistent Colors and Realistic display modes. Hidden Line is the default.

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The Sun control turns on the display of the sun path for display purposes. You use the Sun Settings dialog box to specify sun angle, which can be according to the view, or by global location, date and time.

The Shadow control turns on the display of shadows for display purposes. You can also open the Graphic Display Options dialog box to control the sun settings, sun and shadow intensity, and line styles applied to edges in section or elevation views.

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The Render control is active in 3D views. It enables you to create renderings with sunlight, shadows, and materials applied to model surfaces.

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The Crop controls enable you to show and activate an adjustable cropping border to a view.

Crop region hidden and inactive

Crop region shown but inactive

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

Crop shown and active

Crop hidden and active

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Crop region selected, controls available

The Temporary Hide/Isolate control allows control over the display of objects or categories of objects per view.

Once elements have been hidden, the view window displays a colored border. Selecting the control again enables you to remove the temporary condition or make it permanent.

You can also hide and change the display of elements that you have selected with right-click menu

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options.

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The Reveal Hidden Elements control shows items that have been hidden in a view, enabling you to select them.

These controls, along with other display settings, are available in the Properties palette for the active view. View Properties displays when nothing is selected in the view window.

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Autodesk Design Academy Unit 2 - Software Tools

All views are listed in the Project Browser. To activate or open a view, expand its view category if necessary and double-click the view name. You can right-click a view name in the Project Browser to open or close it. The properties of the selected view will display on the Properties palette.

The Ribbon
The ribbon holds tabs organized by task. Nine tabs are available: Home, Insert, Annotate, Structure, Massing & Site, Collaborate, View, Manage and Modify. Each ribbon tab contains panels of grouped buttons. You can switch from tab to tab to select the appropriate tool.

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Certain ribbon tools are split and hold options on a drop-down list.

Certain ribbon tools found in panel titles will open settings dialog boxes.

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Context Tabs, Options Bar, Properties Palette, Type Selector


When you start a tool by clicking a button, a context tab opens on the ribbon. This tab combines tools from the Modify tab with tools specific for the work you have started. The Modify|Place Wall tab is shown in the following image.

If you select items in the view window, a context tab which combines the Modify tab with tools for working with the object(s) opens.

When a context tab is active, the Options Bar may display below it, showing options that you can select while you are working.

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When you select an item or start a placement tool, the Properties palette enables you to adjust properties of the object you are placing or modifying.

The Type Selector on the Properties palette enables you to choose between types of elements.

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Navigation Bar
The Navigation Bar on the right of the view window holds controls for zooming in the view.

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You can also reach zoom controls on the right-click menu.

In 3D views, the Navigation Bar has controls for Steering Wheels, which are navigation tools tied to the cursor.

There is a ViewCube control in 3D views that enables you to orient the view.

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Quick Access Toolbar


At the top left of the screen is the Quick Access toolbar containing frequently used tools: file toolsfile tools annotate toolsannotate tools view toolsview tools window toolswindow tools The Quick Access toolbar is the only place where Undo and Redo appear. You can add New File to the Quick Access toolbar from the available list and you can open a dialog box to further customize the Quick Access toolbar list.

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You can also right-click ribbon buttons and add them to the Quick Access toolbar for constant visibility.

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Application Menu
Click the Revit icon in the upper left of the screen to open the only menu, the application menu.

The application menu contains file management controls, such as File Open, File Save, New File, Print, Export, and Publish. On the right is a list of recently opened files. Click a file name to open that file. You can switch this list to show open views in open files, and you can then click a view name in the list to switch to a view in another file. File Close only appears on the application menu. Closing individual views does not close a project file until you reach the last open view.

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This lesson outlined the basic display and navigation components of the user interface for Autodesk Revit Architecture software.

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Exercise: Display and Hide Ribbon Tabs


This exercise shows you how to display and hide tabs on the ribbon.

The completed exercise

4.

The ribbon tabs disappear except for their titles. Click the arrow to the right of the Modify tab title. Select Minimize to Panel Titles.

Display and Hide RibbonTabs


1. To start a new project, click Projects > New in the Recent Files window; or click New > Project from the application menu. If you select the menu option, click OK in the dialog box that opens. The panel titles display under the tab titles. The panels display under the cursor and disappear when the cursor moves away.

Do this for other tabs.

2. 3.

On the ribbon, click the names of the tabs one by one to open them. After you have examined each of them, make the Home tab active. Click the arrow to the right of the Modify tab name. Select Minimize to Tabs from the list.

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5.

Click the arrow to the right of the Modify tab title. Select Minimize to Panel Buttons.

7.

Close the file without saving. In this exercise, you opened a project file, and then viewed, hid and displayed tabs on the ribbon.

Icons for panels display below tab titles. Click the panel title to display the individual tools. They disappear when you move the cursor away.

6.

Click the arrow to the right of the Modify tab title. Select Cycle Through All.

Click the arrow immediately to the left of the list arrow you clicked previously. You can use this control to cycle through the ribbon displays. Select Show Full Ribbon to return to the default ribbon display.

Minimized panel display is suitable for smaller screens.

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Exercise: Context Tabs


This exercise illustrates how to explore tools and commands on context tabs. 2. The file opens to a 3D view. Open view Floor Plan Level 1. In the Project Browser, doubleclick the view name.

The completed exercise

Context Tabs
1. Click the Open File icon on the Quick Access toolbar.

Open quick_start_building_elements.rvt. You worked on this file in Getting Started, Quick Start for Revit Architecture, Exercise 2. A copy is also in the courseware datasets.

The graphics display changes to show the Level 1 Floor Plan.

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3.

Click any interior wall. The Modify | Walls context tab opens.

7.

Clear Walls and Doors. Click OK.

4.

Click the door in the upper left of the model. The Modify | Doors context tab opens.

5.

Click and drag the cursor outside the perimeter of the model. . You are creating a filtered selection set of just the windows in the view. The context tab changes to Modify | Windows. On the Properties palette, the Type Selector list reads Fixed: 36" x 48". Click the down arrow next to the thumbnail icon to open the Type list. Select Fixed: 24" x 48" from the list to change all the selected windows to this type.

8.

6.

You are selecting everything visible; all the walls, doors, and windows highlight blue. The Modify | Multi-Select context tab opens. Note that is has fewer panels and tools than the tabs for specific elements. Click Filter panel > Filter.

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9.

Click anywhere in the view to clear the selection set. Select any window to verify that it has changed type. Click any door. On the Modify | Doors context tab, click Create panel > Create Similar.

10. On the Properties palette, the Type Selector shows Single-Flush 36" x 84" selected. Select Single-Flush 30" x 80" from the list.

12. Save the file as Unit2_building_elements.rvt. In this exercise, you opened a project file, examined the menus and toolbars, and used the Options Bar to change a selection set of elements.

11. Place a door as shown.

Click Modify | Place Door tab > Select panel > Modify to terminate the Door tool.

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Working with Views and Objects


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Use View Controls and Graphic Display options. s Load and place component families. s Modify a standard family to create a new family type. s Create a new in-place family.

Work with Views and Objects


This lesson explores Revit Architecture views and model objects. In the exercises, you: s Change the display in Revit by opening different views. Revit provides floor plan, ceiling plan, and elevation views by default. You can create sections, drafting views, schedules, and 3D views using the View menu. Views can be added to your drawing sheets. s Control how things appear on your screen using View Properties. s Navigate around your screen (Zoom, Pan, and so on) using your cursor combined with the selected View tool. s Work with Revit families. Revit uses the term family to denote a collection of controls and parameters. System families include levels, building elements (walls, floors), operating settings, annotations, lines, display controls, templates, and views. Component families include model objects (furniture, mechanical equipment), either predefined or user-created.

Exercises
s s s

View Controls Work with Families Create Custom Families

Key Terms
component family menus Options Bar ribbon system family toolbars View Properties view navigation zoom

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

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This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Working with Views and Objects

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Exercise: View Controls


A building model, even a small one, is an extensive database. There is no way to see everything in it. Views are filters through which you can see representations of the database elements in graphic or table form. View controls enable you to adjust the display of individual views to see and represent the model as you desire. 3. Use your keyboard to enter VV. This is a shortcut to open the View Graphics/Visibility dialog box. VG also opens the dialog box. The dialog box opens with the Model Categories on top.

The completed exercise

Visibility
1. Open Unit2_building_elements.rvt. You worked on this file in the previous exercise. There is also a copy in the course datasets.

2.

First, you practice with Zoom and Detail Level controls in a plan view. The file opens to Floor Plan view Level 1. Rightclick in the view window. Click Zoom to Fit.

Click the Annotation Categories tab. Clear the check mark next to Elevations. Click OK.

The elevation markers disappear from the view. Right-click. Click Zoom to Fit.

The display changes. Four elevation markers are visible.

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4.

Right-click. Click Zoom In Region.

Enter ZF. This is a shortcut for Zoom to Fit. You will change visibility of elements in another plan view. In the Project Browser, select Ceiling Plan Level 1. Right-click. Click Open.

6. Click and drag the cursor as shown. The display is enlarged to show the area you defined.

7.

Zoom to Fit. Select the roof outline. Hold down the CTRL key and window-select an elevation marker. There are two parts to an elevation, so be sure to select them both.

5.

You can also use the scroll wheel on a mouse to zoom in and out. On the View Control Bar, click Detail Level. Select Detail Level: Medium.

The interior walls will now display lines to differentiate studs and drywall.

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8.

Enter VH. This is a shortcut to turn off visibility for the categories of selected objects. It is the same as the multistep procedure you performed in step 3. There is also a Hide Category button on the View Graphics panel of the Modify | MultiSelect tab.

The Properties palette to the left of the View Window displays View Properties. 2. On the Properties palette, change the Underlay value to None.

On the Navigation Bar at the right of the view window, click the Zoom list > Zoom to Fit.

Note that in Reflected Ceiling plans, doors and windows are not shown.

The Underlay enables you to display floors other than the current one for purposes of checking alignment.

View Properties
1. Open the Level 2 Floor Plan view. This view is not particularly useful in its current setup. You simplify it into a Roof Plan. Turn off visibility of the elevations, as before. Click Zoom to Fit.

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3.

Scroll to the Extents subsection of the palette. Next to View Range, click Edit.

For Name, enter Roof. Click OK. Click Yes in the question box about renaming other views.

Set the cut plane value to 7' - 0".

Click OK twice to exit the dialog box. All model views in Revit Architecture are 3D. The View Range governs which physical elevations are used for the top and bottom of plan views, and where the cut plane sits. By setting the cut plane to a level higher than the peak of the roof, the ridge is now visible. Select the name of the Level 2 Floor Plan in the Project Browser. Right-click. Click Rename.

4.

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Graphic Display Options


1. Open Elevation view South. Zoom in to make the house fill the screen.

In the dialog box that opens, click the button to the right of the Sun Setting field.

2.

Elevation views are covered in detail in Unit 8. On the View Control Bar > Visual Style, select Shading with Edges.

5.

In the Sun Settings dialog box, under Solar Study, select Still. In the Presets list, select Winter Solstice. Accept the location that activates. Set the time to 9:30 am.

3.

On the View Control Bar > Graphic Display Options, select Shadows On.

4.

Click Graphic Display Options to open the Graphic Display Options dialog box.

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Notice that there are other controls to specify sun angle directly or by location and time. Click OK twice to exit the dialog boxes. The elevation shadows update.

6.

Save the file as Unit2_views.rvt. In this exercise, you opened a project file and adjusted visibility characteristics in multiple views. You also changed View Properties and used Advanced Model Graphics.

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Exercise: Work With Families


In this exercise, you open an existing project file, and use a Revit family to place a door. This exercise illustrates how you locate, load, and place Revit families. In Revit, objects can be defined as hosted (for example, doors and windows are dependent on walls), or stand-alone (for example, furniture). Revit provides you with the basic building components to be used in constructing residential, commercial, or institutional structures. Additionally, Revit has a free online library that you can use to expand your designs even more. These components are called families and there are several different types. There are system families, standard families, and families in place. s A system family, such as levels, walls, and floors, is predefined within Revit. You can modify and define new types of system families by modifying the existing parameters. s A standard family can be created by defining the geometry and parameters in the Family Editor. Doors, windows, roofs, floors, railings, lights, furniture, and annotations are examples of standard families. Many different types can be made for each family and used throughout the project. s In-place families are created within the project and are dependent upon the model geometry. Designers who become proficient in Revit Architecture will create their own families of doors, windows, and furniture, and so on. Revit Architecture families are similar to multiview objects in AutoCAD Architecture, except they are fully parametric and table-driven. 3. Doors are considered standard family entities. Click Modify | Place Door tab > Mode panel > Load Family. This button enables you to access families that are currently not loaded into your project.

The completed exercise

Use the Revit Architecture Library


1. Open Unit2_views.rvt. You worked on this file in the previous exercise.

2.

Open Floor Plan view Level 1. You add closet doors to interior walls. On the Home tab, Build panel, click Door.

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Your file browser automatically opens to a default library based on the units selected when Revit was installed. You have families available in many different categories such as Doors, Furniture, and Annotation. Family files have a file extension of *.rfa. Project files have a file extension of *.rvt. Click the Doors folder. Click Open.
s s

6.

You see the family you just loaded listed in the Type Selector of the Properties palette. It has a number of different sizes defined. Accept the default size.

4.

On the Modify | Place Door tab, Tag panel, verify that Tag on Placement is not selected (white). The Door Insertion tool stays active. 5. If you highlight a door family, you will see a preview of what the door looks like in the Preview window. Locate Double Panel 2.rfa. Click Open.

As you move your cursor near any wall, a door appears along with temporary dimensions. The temporary dimensions display the location of the door placement. Revit snaps weakly to the midpoint of walls. You click to place an instance of the door family.

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7.

Place an instance of the door as shown. It snaps to the midpoint of the wall, but not strongly. Your dimensions will probably differ from those shown. The door is placed facing the side of the wall where you click.

8.

Place two more instances of the door as shown.

You can flip the door by using the blue directional arrows. Temporary dimensions display until you place another door or terminate the Door tool by selecting Modify. The dimensions redisplay if you select the door again. To edit a temporary dimension and relocate the door, simply click it. An edit box displays in which you can enter a new value. 9. Save the file as Unit2_doors_walls.rvt. In this exercise, you located, loaded, and placed instances of a door family.

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Exercise: Create Custom Families


In this exercise, you open an existing project file, modify a door family, and create an in-place family. This door needs to be 48" wide. The Type Selector lists the available sizes for this door type. The required width is not available.

3.

Click Properties palette > Edit Type.

The completed exercise

Modify an Existing Family


1. Open Unit2_doors_walls.rvt. You worked on this file in the previous exercise. 4. In the Type Properties dialog box, click Duplicate.

2.

The file opens to Floor Plan view Level 1. Select the double door as shown.

5.

For Name, enter 48" x 80". Click OK.

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6.

Edit the Height and Width dimension fields as shown. You can enter inch values if you put " after the digits (as in 80"). Revit adjusts them to foot-inch readings.

2.

In the dialog box, select Generic Models. Click OK.

Click OK twice to exit the dialog boxes. The door updates. 3. For Name, enter Hall Clock. Click OK.

4.

The ribbon changes to the Family Editor environment. Click Home tab > Forms panel > Extrusion.

Create an In-Place Family


In our hypothetical design, imagine that the client has an heirloom grandfather clock and wants it to be a featured part of the main hall. The most effective way to make sure that space is allowed, and to provide a way to see a representation of the clock in interior elevations, is to create a component family in place. 1. On the Home tab, Build panel, click Component > Model In-Place.

5.

On the Properties palette, set the Extrusion End value to 6". The Depth field on the Options Bar updates.

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6.

On the Draw panel, click Rectangle.

9.

Set the Lines mode to Rectangle with an Offset of - 2". Revit will display - 0' 2".

Draw a rectangle approximately 1' x 1' - 4" as shown. The exact dimensions and location are not critical. 10. Sketch a rectangle inside the previous one, as shown.

7.

Click Mode panel > Finish (green check mark). You have created the base of the clock. 11. Click Mode panel > Finish as before. Click InPlace Editor panel > Finish Model.

8.

Click Home tab > Forms panel > Extrusion as before. Set the Extrusion Start value to 6" and the Extrusion End value to 5' 6".

12. The family model updates.

Click OK.

13. Save the file as Unit2_custom_family.rvt. In this exercise, you located, loaded, and placed a door family. You also created an in-place family using Extrusions.

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STEM Connections

Background
Computers have replaced drafting tables throughout the building design industry. The wide availability of rapid calculations has made big changes in the way building design is carried out. Designers now use Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools rather than pencil and paper.

Science
The discovery of quantum mechanics is said to form the basis of computing technology and nanoscience. s Discuss the development of computers in the 20th century. s When did computers become widely used as building design tools?

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Technology
Processing power for computers has continued to grow over the years. s What is Moore's Law, and how does it apply to software tools?

Engineering
Computer screens now enable you to look at a building design from any angle, rather than drawing perspective views by hand. s How has the development of 3D design software affected the way houses are built?

Math
Computers do not use algebra or calculus to operate. s What is binary math, and how does it apply to software tools?

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture lesson, you learned to: s Navigate the user interface: ribbon, tab, context tabs, and Options Bar. s Open different views. s Change view displays. s Change view properties. s Adjust Visual Style Options. s Adjust Advanced Model Graphics and sun settings. s Access, load, and place a family from a library. s Change type properties of a family. s Create an in-place model family.

Questions
1. All content tools are located on the ribbon. a. True b. False 2. You can control how tabs display on the ribbon. a. True b. False 3. Each project has several predefined views, depending on the template selected. a. True b. False 4. Views can be renamed. a. True b. False 5. To activate a view: a. Double-click the view name in the Project Browser. b. Highlight the view name in the Project Browser. Right-click, and click Open. c. Go to View > View Name in the menu. d. Either a or b. 6. Zoom in Region is used to: a. Zoom to an area designated by a rectangle drawn on the view by the user. b. Zoom to an area selected by a left click. c. Zoom to an area selected by a right click. d. Zoom to the entire model. 7. The tool shown is used to:

a. Create a 3D perspective view. b. Turn on Shadows. c. Set the display mode to Shaded with Edges. d. Spin the model in 3D space.

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8. If you have a scroll wheel mouse, you can use the scroll wheel to: a. Pan and Zoom b. Rotate c. Scroll d. All of the above, depending on settings 9. The Underlay setting of a view can be changed in the _________ . a. Visibility/Graphics Overrides dialog box b. Graphics Display Options dialog box c. Project Browser d. Properties palette 10. The building components used in Revit Architecture (doors, windows, etc.) are called: a. Multiview b. Blocks c. Parts d. Families 11. A family created within a project is called ________________. a. Standard b. System c. In-Place d. Custom

Summary/Questions

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 3 - Standards and Building Codes


About This Unit
After completing this unit, you will be able to: s Select a project template. s Set project units. s Create dimensions and text. s Create dimension and text styles. s Duplicate and modify views. s Work with sheets and viewports s Create a title block. s Create labels. s Create a project template.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Review Revit Architecture setup. (Demonstration and Discussion) Complete Exercise: Select a Template. (Student) Complete Exercise: Set Units. (Student) Complete Exercise: Modify a Dimension Style. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create a New Sheet. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create a Title Block. (Student) Complete Exercise: Insert a Title Block. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create a Template. (Student) Evaluate Students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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Standards and Building Codes


About This Lesson
Architectural and construction design must follow rules and standards. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) establishes the rules for architectural drafting, defining the layers, colors, linetypes, and symbols to be used in architectural drafting. Visit the AIA website at www.aia.org. The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) is an organization for students interested in pursuing a career in architecture. Visit the AIAS website at www.aias.org. Many cities and counties have their own rules, based on the AIA standards, to make it easier to check drawings that are being submitted to their planning departments. The rules dictate how drawing sheets should be numbered and what symbols, linetypes, colors, and so forth, should be used. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s s s s

Describe drawing units and how they are measured in drawings. Describe drawing scale and dimension styles. Identify the different sheet sizes and how they should be named. Describe title blocks and the contents that are typically included in them. Explain why templates are used, and the settings that are preset within them.

Key Terms
AIA attribute commercial dimension dual notation imperial label landscape layout metric permanent dimensions portrait plot scale ratio residential scale sheet temporary dimensions text title block units view

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

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This lesson relates to technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

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Building Codes
The Uniform Building Code establishes the rules for building design. The rules are meant to ensure that buildings are safe for people. Most states have their own building codes that take into consideration environmental and social issues specific to that state. The Uniform Building Code also defines what constitutes a bedroom, a bathroom, a common area (such as a living room or family room), a garage, and so on. For example, in order for a room to be considered a bedroom, it must have at least one door, one window, and one closet. If it lacks any of these components, it cannot be called a bedroom. A garage must be completely enclosed, otherwise it is considered a carport.

A good example of a Building Code rule applies to bedroom windows on an upper floor. Each bedroom or upper floor room that is adjacent to the exterior must have at least one window large enough to accommodate a firefighter with a backpack. If there is a fire, the firefighter must be able to get into the room easily to fight the fire and save the people inside.

Drawing Units
Architectural drawing, like mechanical drawing, uses a system of units to define the size of a structure and its components: walls, doors, windows, and so on. A unit is a particular physical quantity, defined and adopted by convention, with which other particular quantities of the same kind are compared to express their value. The value of a physical quantity is the quantitative expression of a particular physical quantity as the product of a number and a unit, the number being its numerical value. The numerical value of a particular physical quantity depends on the unit in which it is expressed.

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For example, the value of the height h of the Washington Monument is h = 169 m = 555 ft. Here h is the physical quantity, its value is expressed in the unit meter, unit symbol m, is 169 m, and its numerical value when expressed in meters is 169. The value of h expressed in the unit foot, unit symbol ft., is 555 ft., and its numerical value when expressed in feet is 555. In architectural drafting, units are applied to dimensions. There are two basic types of dimensions: size and location. Size dimensions indicate the overall size of an object. Location dimensions deal with the actual placement of an object or structure. Many architects are beginning to draft using the metric system, also known as the International System of Units. However, in the United States, the construction industry still uses the English, or imperial, system (inches and feet) to order lumber, glass, and other materials. Some architects deal with this by applying metric dimensions to those items they can control, such as room size and wall height, while noting the width of studs (2 x 4) and so forth, using imperial units. Another method is to apply dual notation. This means that every dimension is shown using metric units and imperial units. Many architects in the United States continue to use only imperial units, as they find this the easiest way to communicate with consultants and government agencies.

Scale and Dimensions


Because buildings are large, the views must be scaled in order for the entire building to be plotted on a sheet of paper.

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Scales are ratios, one value representing another value. The format typically used for architectural scales is an inch value equal to one foot, for example 1/8" = 1'-0". This is actually equal to 1:96 scale, because there are ninety-six 1/8 inches in a foot (12 x 8).

This means that if you plot a drawing at 1/8" = 1'0", everything in your drawing gets scaled down ninety-six times when it is plotted. If you were to get a ruler out and measure the objects on your drawing, every 1/8" would represent 1'. Revit Architecture accomplishes this automatically with a system of view scale, sheets, and viewports. In Revit Architecture, dimension styles control the appearance of dimensions: font and text size, line weight and pattern, and the size and shape of the tick marks that define the measuring point. Dimensions scale with other view contents when viewports are placed on sheets for plotting.

Sheets
Sheets in technical drafting can be different sizes. Each size is designated by a letter. Most offices define a title block for each sheet size used for their documentation. LETTER A B C D SIZE (in.) 8.5 X 11 11 X 17 17 X 22 22 X 34

An easy way to figure out what size sheet is designated by which letter is to start by knowing that a standard 8-1/2 (H) x 11 (W) sheet of paper is A. Each letter size after this is W x 2*H of the previous size. A B-size sheet of paper is 11 (W) x 8.5*2 (H) = 11(W) x 17 (H). QUESTION: If your customer demands his documentation in D-size sheets, can you calculate the size of the paper? E-size? (See the end of this section for the answer) The AIA has several recommended naming conventions for sheets, and most architectural offices use

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a modified version of the AIA standard. Project drawing sheets are grouped by a sheet-type prefix that identifies the discipline for each sheet: SHEET TYPE Prefixes A S M E P F C L Discipline Architectural Structural Mechanical/HVAC Electrical Plumbing Fire Protection Civil Engineering/Site Landscape

The prefix is followed by a number where the integer refers to the type of drawing, and a decimal refers to the drawing order under the type. The integers go from 0 to 9. Integer 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Drawing Type Index, symbols, notes Demolition, site plan, temporary Schedules Sections, exterior elevations Floor plans Interior elevations Reflected ceiling plans Stairs, elevators, escalators Exterior details Interior details

For example, a sheet for the first-floor floor plan would be numbered A4.01. A sheet for an exterior elevation showing structural detail would be numbered S3.01. A sheet in Revit Architecture simulates a sheet of paper and provides a predictable plotting setup. You create and position views, and then add a title block or other symbols. You create multiple sheets in a Revit project, each of which contains different plot scales and paper sizes. ANSWER If your customer demands his documentation in E-size sheets, can you calculate the size of the paper? A D-size sheet of paper is 22 (W) x 34 (H). An E-size sheet of paper is 34 (W) x 22*2 (H) = 34 (H) x 44 (W).

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Title Blocks
A title block is like a title page to a report or a book cover. It identifies the drawing with a title or description, the author of the drawing, the date drawn, and other relevant information. The AIA has enacted certain standards as to the appearance of title blocks for architectural and construction drawings. Typically, the title block is a single column on the right side of the paper. The paper is oriented landscape, so that the height is less than the width. The column is divided into sections. Usually, the name and address of the architectural firm are located at the top space, followed by information on the building's owner. Remaining spaces are used for any consultants involved in the project; that is, the electrician, the HVAC company, and so on. The next space is for tracking revisions. The final sections are for the sheet title and number.

Templates
A template is a master copy of a file used as a starting point to design new documents. A template may be as simple as a blank document in the desired size and orientation, or as elaborate as a nearly complete design with placeholder text, fonts, and graphics that need only a small amount of customization of text. Templates are usually preset with drawing units, drawing scales, annotation plot sizes, and layer standards. Object styles and display controls can also be preset in a template. You can use the templates that are installed with Revit Architecture to begin a project, and then modify the settings in the drawing and save it as a template that you use as a future starting point. Each building project must comply with a specific standard. The standard will be dictated by the type of building (residential or commercial) and the location of the project. Because different projects and types of buildings require different documentation drawings, you can create separate template files that have preset settings according to the corresponding projects. Most architectural firms create a template for each standard they need to meet. For example, a firm may have a template for San Francisco-Residential to use for any residential projects to be constructed

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in the City of San Francisco. The template will contain the required sheets/layouts, title blocks, layer settings, required symbols, dimension and text styles, and so forth.

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Settings
About This Lesson
In this lesson, you use templates that are preset with drawing units, views, dimension styles, and sheets as your starting point in Revit Architecture. Revit templates also contain preloaded sets of component families such as doors, windows, and walls. These can be used to build your model. You can use one of the templates installed with Revit to begin a project. Revit comes with templates using imperial or metric units.

Key Terms
dimension elevation markers family imperial label load menu object properties Project Browser sheet styles template title block view view properties

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

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This lesson relates to technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Settings

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Exercise: Select a Template


In this exercise, you create a new project file using a template. You access templates that are included with Revit Architecture. In Revit, you use templates as starting points. Templates are empty files that are preset with drawing units and views that you use in a typical project. Templates also contain basic sets of object styles and display controls specific to working with objects in Revit. Use one of the templates installed with Revit and you can get started on a project immediately.

Select a Template
1. Open Revit to an empty project file. On the application menu, click New > Project.

2.

In the New Project dialog box, click Browse.

3.

Revit provides you with a set of templates specific to different project types.

The completed exercise

A commercial building is a building used for a business, factory, or store. A residential building is a single-family dwelling. Condominiums, apartments, and town houses usually use commercial building templates.

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4. 5.

Select the Residential-Default.rte template file from the Imperial Templates folder. Click Open. Click OK. Revit opens a new project with preset views for a standard two-story residential dwelling. Sheets are already set up for documenting the project.

6.

You are now ready to start work on a new project in an environment that has been optimized for the particular type of project, saving set up time. On the application menu, click Close to close this project without saving.

In this exercise, you started a new project file using a standard template.

Settings

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Exercise: Set Units


With Revit Architecture templates, the drawing setup options are preset. You can customize your template by changing the drawing setup values. Revit Architecture has templates for imperial (feet) and metric (millimeters) measurement. In this exercise, you open an existing file and set the units to be applied to the model. This exercise illustrates how you control the units in your drawing model. 2. In the Project Browser, expand Floor Plans under Views. Double-click Floor Plans > 00 Foundation to open that view.

3.

To place a wall in the view: s On the Home tab, Build panel, click Wall. s Place the cursor over the left wall. Click to start a new wall. Pull the cursor to the right.

The Project Units dialog

Set Project Units


1. In the courseware datasets folder, open ADA__Settings.rvt.

The file opens to a 3D view.

Notice the blue temporary dimensions in millimeters. Press ESC to cancel the wall. The Wall tool remains active.

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4.

Click Manage tab > Settings panel > Project Units. (The keyboard shortcut is UN.)

6.

Place the cursor over the left wall, click to start a new wall, and move the cursor right.

Click Format for Length.

5.

For Format: s Set Units to Meters. s Set Rounding to 1 Decimal Place. s Set Unit symbol to m. (This means that dimensions will display m next to the numeral.) s Select Suppress Training 0's.

7. 8.

Notice the change in the blue temporary dimensions. Press ESC to cancel the wall. Close the file without saving.

In this exercise, you opened an existing file and changed the unit settings.

Click OK twice to save the setting change.

Settings

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Exercise: Modify a Dimension Style


In Revit Architecture, there are two types of dimensions, temporary and permanent. Temporary dimensions display when you select, create, or insert components. Permanent dimensions are created explicitly by the user to capture design intent. 2. On the Annotate tab, Dimension panel, click Aligned.

Study the dimension options that appear on the Options Bar. By default, dimensions snap to wall centerlines.

On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.


The completed exercise

Modify a Dimension Style to Create a New Style


This exercise shows how to define different permanent dimension styles based on the appearance of the dimension text and lines. Each dimension style automatically adjusts for different view scales. Because Revit Architecture is a parametric modeling software application, dimensions not only display, but also control the size and location of objects. Elements will change location or size based on changes to the dimensions. 1. Open ADA_Dimensions.rvt. 3. 4. In the Type Properties dialog box, click Duplicate. For Name, enter Big Text. Click OK.

The file opens to view Floor Plan: Level 1.

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5.

In the Properties dialog box: s Set Line Weight to 2. s Set Witness Line Extension to 3/16". s Set Centerline Symbol to Centerline. s Set Centerline Pattern to Dash Dot. s Set Text Size to 3/16".

6.

The new dimension style is displayed in the Type Selector.

7.

The Dimension tool is still active. Select the top, left, and bottom horizontal walls. Drag the dimension to the left of the view. Click to place.

Click OK twice.

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8.

Use the Type Selector to make Linear the current Linear Dimension Style. The Dimension tool stays active.

s s

Select the far left, upper, and far right vertical walls. Drag the dimension to the top of the view. Click to place the dimension.

9.

Note the differences between the two dimension styles. Close the file without saving.

In this exercise, you opened an existing file, created a new dimension style, and then applied permanent dimensions to walls.

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Exercise: Create a New Sheet


In this exercise, you modify a view and place it on a sheet in a project file.

The completed exercise

Duplicate and Modify a Plan View


1. In the datasets folder, open the project ADA_New_Sheet.rvt.

Copy of Level 1 displays in the Project Browser under Floor Plans, and the view window displays the new plan. There are no annotations visible.

The file opens to view Floor Plan: Level 1. Notice the door and window tags. These are annotations. You need drawing sheets to hold both a Floor Plan and a Furniture Plan of Level 1. In order to do this, you create a copy of the view Floor Plan: Level 1. In the Project Browser, place the cursor over the view name Floor Plan: Level 1. Right-click. Click Duplicate View > Duplicate.

2. 3.

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4.

In the Project Browser, right-click Floor Plan: Copy of Level 1. Click Rename.

8.

In the View Visibility/Graphics dialog box, Model Categories tab, turn off the visibility of the following categories: s Casework s Furniture s Lighting Fixtures s Specialty Equipment To toggle visibility on or off, select or clear the check box of the desired object category.

5.

Rename the view Level 1 Furniture. Click OK.

6.

7.

In the Project Browser, select Floor Plan: Level 1. Double-click to open it. You turn off the visibility of all of the furniture and electrical equipment within this view. Click Properties palette > Visibility/Graphics > Edit.

9.

Click OK to update the display of this view.

Set Project Information


Editing the Project Information parameters enables the project information to be automatically passed to the title block on drawing sheets. 1. On the Manage tab, Settings panel, click Project Information.

You can also enter the keyboard shortcuts VG or VV.

The Instance Properties dialog box displays with Project Information fields.

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Add a Sheet
1. Click Sheets (all) in the Project Browser. Rightclick. Click New Sheet.

2.

You can also click View tab > Sheet Composition panel > Sheet. In the Select Titleblocks dialog box, highlight the title block displayed in the list.

2.

In the Value column of Project Address, click Edit. Enter the address as shown. Click OK.

(Title blocks are automatically embedded in the sheet size selected. The next exercise teaches you how to create a custom title block.) 3. Click OK. The sheet appears in the Project Browser and in the graphics window.

3.

You can also enter the address of your school. Edit the remaining Project Setting parameters using the following information, or supply your own values:

Click OK.

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4.

5.

To edit the title block properties and to modify the values in the title block fields: s Select the title block. s The Properties palette shows information about the title block. In the Identity Data and Other sections, change the following values: s Sheet Name: Level 1 Plan s Sheet Number: A4.01 s Checked By: Your instructor's name s Designed By: Your first initial and last name s Approved By: Your instructor's name s Drawn By: Your first initial and last name

The Scale is a read-only value. It is automatically filled in when you place your views.

Add a View to the Sheet


1. Next, you add the view Floor Plan: Level 1 to the sheet. s Click View tab > Sheet Composition panel > View.

Click Apply. Notice the change to the title block.

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You can also drag and drop the view from the Project Browser onto the sheet. Highlight Floor Plan: Level 1 from the view list. Select Add View to Sheet.

3.

Select the new viewport. Right-click. Click Activate View.

4.

Use the View Control Bar Scale control to set the View Scale to 1:20.

2.

You see the view at the end of your cursor. It is small compared to the size of the sheet. Click to place the view onto the middle of your sheet.

Right-click in the view. Select Deactivate View.

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5.

The view updates on the sheet. Place the cursor 7. Close the file without saving. over the edge of the viewport and click to In this exercise, you: select it. The cursor changes to a four-headed drag arrow. Drag the viewport to the center s Opened an existing project file. of the sheet. Click away from the viewport to s Duplicated and edited a plan view. deselect it. Finish the move. s Added a sheet. s Placed a view on the sheet. s Changed the scale of the view on the sheet. s Modified the values of the fields in the title block using the Project Information and Element Properties dialog boxes.

6.

The Scale updates in the title block.

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Exercise: Create a Title Block


In this exercise, you start a new family file and create a title block from scratch. This is one of the longer exercises. 2. Navigate to the Imperial Templates > Titleblocks folder.

3.

Select A-11x8.5.rft. Click Open.

The completed exercise

Draft a Title Block


1. Start Revit Architecture. It opens to the Recent Files window. On the application menu, click New > Titleblock. 4. A copy of the 11 x 8.5 title block template opens. The template consists of lines representing the paper border (minus printer margins).

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5.

On the Home tab, Detail panel, click Line.

6.

Next, you create a vertical line 2-1/2" from the right border (3" from the right sheet edge). With the Line command still active, select the Pick (arrow) icon from the Options Bar. Set Offset to 2 1/2".

On the Draw panel, click the Rectangle sketching tool. On the Options Bar, enter an Offset value of -1/2" (negative).

Place the cursor over the right edge of the border you sketched in the previous step. The direction you move the cursor towards the border line determines the offset placement. Once the green dashed line appears to the left, select the line. Tip: By setting the offset to a negative value, the resulting rectangle will offset to the inside of the sketched points. Select the lower left corner of the sheet and the upper right corner of the sheet to place a 1/2" border on the sheet.

This places a vertical line 2 1/2" to the left of the right margin. You have divided the page outline into two panels.

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7.

To draw the next lines: s In the Draw pane, click the Line option. s On the Options Bar, clear the Chain option. s On the Options Bar, set Offset to 0. s Sketch a line 1/2" up from the bottom margin of the right panel.

9.

Sketch another horizontal line 1-1/2" above the upper line as shown.

8.

Sketch another horizontal line 3" above the last line as shown.

10. Next, you thicken the line weight of two horizontal lines. Select Modify from the Select panel. Select the two lines as shown. Hold down the CTRL key to select more than one object at the same time.

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11. From the Type Selector list, Identity Data, Subcategory, select Wide Lines.

Add a Company Logo


Now you can add an image file. 1. On the Insert tab, click Import panel > Image.

2.

Select the file Company_Logo.jpg. This file can be found in the courseware datasets folder. Click Open to load the image into the project. You can also use the logo for your school if you wish. Click to place the image in the upper right panel you made by drawing lines. Click away from the image to finish positioning it. You can use the blue grips to scale the image, and you can drag it so it fits in the space.

3.

If you zoom in close, you can see the lineweight change.

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Add Text to the Title Block


Next, you define new text styles to use in the title block. 1. On the Text panel of the Home tab, click Text.

3.

Click Edit Type to open the Text Type for modification.

2.

Click the Type Selector drop-down arrow. There is only one text note type; it is called Text Note 1.

4.

Click Rename. Enter 1/4" as the name for the existing text type. Click OK.

5.

Click Duplicate. For Name, enter 1/4" Bold for the new text type.

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6.

Select Bold. Click Apply.

11. You now see all four text types listed.

7.

Click Duplicate again. For Name, enter 1/8". Click OK. 12. The Text placement tool is still active. Select 1/4" Bold from the Type Selector list as the text style. Drag a rectangular text box beneath the company logo. Use the image below as a reference.

8.

Modify the Text Size parameter to 1/8". Clear the Bold parameter. Click Apply.

9.

Select Duplicate again. For Name, enter 1/16" for the new text type. Click OK.

10. Modify the Text Size parameter to 1/16". Click OK twice to close the Properties dialog box.

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13. Enter the name of your school.

You can use the blue grips to lengthen or shorten the text field. Move grips to position it in the space without exiting the Text tool. Text will wrap inside the box. 14. Next, you add an additional text note using the second new text style. From the Type Selector list, select Text: 1/8". In the space below the company logo and school name, drag a second text note rectangle.

15. You sketch three new lines above the lower horizontal line that you added earlier in the exercise. s Click Modify. s On the Home tab, Detail panel, click Line. s From the Type Selector list, select Title Blocks as the line type. s On the Draw panel, click Pick. s On the Options Bar, set Offset to 1/2".

Enter the address of your school. Press ENTER to start a new line inside the text box.

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16. Select the bottom horizontal line of the right pane. Click to place an offset line above it. Place three offset lines in total.

Add Labels
Revit labels look like text but are smarter. Labels show information assigned in file properties, object/entity properties, or by the user as a custom property. 1. On the Home tab, Text panel, click Label.

2.

On the Format panel, click the icons for Right and Bottom alignment as shown.

17. Click Modify. On the Home tab, Text panel, click Text. 18. Set the current text style in the Type Selector to 1/16". 19. Enter text into each section as shown. Once you have placed one item of text, you can line up the text using the snap line next to the cursor. Once you have placed text, you can adjust its position by selecting it and using the arrow keys to nudge it left-right or up-down.

3.

The first label you create is the Project Issue Date. Place the cursor near the lower right corner of the date field and click.

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4.

You need to specify the information fields for the new label. In the Edit label dialog box: s From the Category Parameters list, select Project Issue Date. s Click Add.

7.

Change the Text Size to 1/8". Click OK. The label now fits properly in the space.

Under Sample Value, edit the sample value as shown. You can also put today's date.

This value is simply a place holder. The actual value will be assigned in a project. 5. Click OK Use the blue dot grips to position the label under the date.
s

8.

On the Family tab, click Label. Revit Architecture will provide snap lines for alignment with the previous label.

6.

You see that the text is too large for the field. Click Modify. Select the label. On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.

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9.

To specify the label contents: s From the Category Parameters list, select Drawn By. s Click Add. s Accept the Sample Value.

14. Navigate to the Imperial Templates/Titleblocks folder. Save the title block as A - Landscape.rfa.

10. Add a label for Checked By. Accept the Sample Value. 11. Add a label for Sheet Number. Accept the Sample Value.

Your teacher may specify another location. 15. On the application menu, click Close.

12. Change the alignment options to Center and Bottom. Add a label above the date for the Sheet Name. Accept the Sample Value.

In this exercise, you created a title block using a template file. You also created new text styles and learned how to define and apply labels to a title block.

13. Right-click. Click Zoom to Fit. On the Quick Access toolbar, click Save to save the title block.

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Exercise: Insert a Title Block


In this exercise, you create a new project file, and then load a custom title block into your project. This exercise illustrates how to load custom title blocks. Revit Architecture comes with several standard title blocks for your use.

3.
The completed exercise

Browse to the Imperial Library/Titleblocks folder or other location where you stored the title block family you created in the previous exercise. Locate your title block. Click Open.

Insert a Title Block


1. In the Recent Files window, click New to create a new project using the default template.

4. 2. On the View tab, click Sheet Composition panel > Sheet to add a sheet to the project.

Your title block is now displayed in the list.

5. A dialog box displays the current list of title blocks. Notice that the title block you created in the previous exercise is not in this list. Click Load to add additional title blocks to the list.

Highlight the title block and click OK. The title block appears in the graphics window. A new sheet has been added and is the current view.

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Modify the Title Block Within a Project


1. 2. Select the title block. On the Properties palette, edit the following fields: s For Sheet Name, enter Student Project Unit 3. s For Drawn By, enter your name. s For Checked By, enter your instructor's name.

4.

On the Manage tab, Settings panel, click Project Information.

5.

Change the Project Issue Date to today's date. Click OK. The Issue Date label on the title block is updated.

3.

Click OK. The parameters on the title block will update as shown. Click OK. Click Zoom to Fit. Save as Unit3_file_with_sheet.rvt in a location determined by your instructor.

6.

In this exercise, you a created a new project file, and then loaded a title block and modified the values in the title block fields.

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Exercise: Create a Template


Project templates are files that provide initial conditions for a project. Any new project based on a template inherits all families, settings, and geometry from the template. There are various settings you can define for your template. In this exercise, you define the title block, a dimension style, and the units for your custom template. Settings you can define for a custom template include: s Colors: Define colors for line styles and families. s Title Blocks: Create a set of title blocks for your project, and then load them like families. s Families: Load in families you use most often. s Line Style: Define line styles for components and lines in a project. s Lineweights: Define lineweights for model and annotation components. s Fill Patterns: Define fill patterns for materials. Fill patterns are commonly used in walls. s Materials: Define materials for modeling components, including how the rendered image looks. s Units: Specify the unit of measurement for length, angles, and slope angle. s Snaps: Set snapping increments for the model views, such as 3D and plan views. s Dimensions: Define the look and size of dimensions for the project. s Temporary Dimensions: Set display and placement of temporary dimensions. s Object Styles: Define the display of components in various views. s Modifying Wall Types: Define custom wall types for your project, in addition to predefined wall types.

Create a Template
In this exercise, you create a new project file, and then implement some of the skills you have learned in the previous exercises to set up a template. This exercise shows how to define a template for use in future projects. 1. On the application menu, click New > Project.

2.

In the New Project dialog box, select Project Template.

3.

Click OK. Load the title block you created in the previous exercise to make it part of this template file. On the Insert tab, click Load From Library panel > Load Family.

The completed exercise

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4.

Open the title block A - Landscape.rfa.

5. 6.

There will be no visible change. Set the units for the template. On the Manage tab, click Settings panel > Project Units. Click the Length field in the Format column.

You create a custom dimension style. 9. In the Type Properties dialog box, click Duplicate. 10. For Name, enter 3/16" Verdana. Click OK.

7.

Set Rounding to To the Nearest 1/4".

8.

Click OK twice. Next, create a Dimension Style. On the Annotate tab, click Dimension panel list > Linear Dimension Types.

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11. Change the following settings as shown:

13. In the Project Browser, select Sheets (All). Rightclick. Click New Sheet.

14. Select the A - Landscape title block you preloaded in Step 2. Click OK. 15. Highlight the Sheet name in your Project Browser. On the Properties palette, enter your name in Drawn By and your teacher's name in Checked By.

Click OK. 12. Click Dimension panel > Aligned. The new dimension style is displayed in the Type Selector.

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16. The title block updates.

Click OK. You have now set up your template with a default sheet title block, as well as dimension style and units. Check with your instructor to see if there are any other changes to be made in your template. 17. Save your project template in your class project folder.

Save the file name as A-English template.rte. You can use this template for future projects. In this exercise, you created a new template file using a dimension style, title block, and units that you defined.

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STEM Connections

Wall ties

Background
Construction documents contain complex information presented in condensed, abstract format. Building codes are meant to provide clear instructions for safe construction and habitation.

Science
Building materials must be stable and safe under extreme conditions. s How would you test to see if a given wall-covering fabric will be safe in a fire? s What do you measure other than flammability?

Technology
New materials, or new combinations of existing materials, are constantly being developed by the building industry. s How has the development of high-strength glues affected construction standards? s How has the development of strong lightweight plastic affected construction standards?

Engineering
Building specifications and standards set out rules for construction practices to ensure safety, and for this reason they always include a measure of redundancy. s How do wall ties function in masonry veneer construction? s What are the spacing and fastening requirements for masonry wall ties in your local building code?

Math
Building codes often specify minimums that must be met for safety and health. s What is the minimum allowable ratio of window area to floor area in bedrooms in the national building code, and why is it important?

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Autodesk Revit Architecture lesson, you learned to: s Set units in a file. s Create a template. s Create a title block. s Create a text style. s Create a dimension style. s Change lineweight. s Change dimension colors. s Create labels. s Create text. s Create dimensions.

General Questions
1. What standards group has established rules dealing with title blocks, dimension styles, and symbols used in drawing? a. AIA b. UBC c. NCTM d. NCSESA 2. The UBC is used to define safety and construction rules in building design. a. True b. False 3. A particular physical quantity, defined and adopted by convention with which other particular quantities of the same kind are compared to express their value, is defined as what? a. An architect b. English c. Metric d. A unit 4. What is the calculated scale of 3/8" = 1'-0". a. 1:3 b. 1:12 c. 1:24 d. 1:32 5. Using AIA Standards, what sheet number would you use for a Plumbing Schedule. a. A.02 b. A.05 c. P.02 d. S.02

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Revit Architecture Questions


1. To set the units in a project, you use: a. Application menu > Properties b. Manage tab > Settings panel > Project Units c. Project Tools dialog box > Units d. Options dialog box > Linear Units 2. By default, dimensions snap to: a. Wall faces b. Wall centerlines c. Wall midpoints d. Point offsets 3. Dimension styles are defined using Type Properties. a. True b. False 4. To create a new sheet, you click: a. Application menu > New > Sheet b. View tab > Sheet Composition panel > Sheet c. Insert tab > Import panel > New Sheet d. Manage tab > Settings panel > New Sheet 5. To change the scale of a view, use the View Visibility/Graphics dialog box. a. True b. False 6. In Revit Architecture, title blocks are embedded in sheet definitions. a. True b. False

Summary/Questions

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 4 - Walls
About This Unit
After completing this unit, you will be able to: s Create a wall. s Define a wall structure. s Trim and extend walls. s Align walls.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Review Wall Function and Structure (Demonstration and Discussion) Complete Exercise: Place Walls. (Student) Complete Exercise: Modify Walls. (Student) Complete Exercise: Define a Wall Structure. (Student) Complete Exercise: Design a Complex Wall Structure. (Student) Evaluate Students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About Walls
About This Lesson
This lesson explains the different types of walls, their construction and materials, and what requirements the Uniform Building Code has set for building walls. Walls are the vertical constructions of a building that enclose, separate, and protect its interior spaces. They may be load-bearing structures of standardized or composite construction designed to support necessary loads from floors and roofs; or they may consist of a framework of columns and beams with nonstructural panels attached to, or filling in between, them.

After completing this lesson, you will be able to:


s s s s s

Describe how to use space planning to determine where to place walls in a building. Describe load-bearing walls and partition walls. Describe platform framing and balloon framing. Identify the materials that are typically used to construct walls. List the different types of occupancy.

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Key Terms
balloon framing dwelling egress exterior flagstone fire block load-bearing partition fire-stop gypsum inside-out design interior occupancy occupancy load partition platform framing roof plate sill plate structure stud top plate

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Space Planning
Before you can determine where and what type of walls should be used when you design a structure, you must plan what you want to do with the space that you have. Space planning is an inside-out design process in which you define the interior spaces of your building, and then define the boundary around those spaces. As you design from the inside out, think of spaces as equivalent to rooms. Placement of walls is determined by how you want the spaces within the walls to be defined. When designing a building, you should use dimensional planning and other material efficiency strategies. These strategies reduce the amount of building materials needed and cut construction costs. For example, you can design rooms on 4-ft. multiples to conform to standard-sized wallboard and plywood sheets.

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Once you have determined the size and location of the rooms, you can determine the type and location of the walls.

For example, if you design a new home, you must first decide what type of living space you need. A single family dwelling would have a kitchen, living room, and at least one bedroom and one bathroom. Other rooms might be added for convenience such as a dining room, entertainment rooms, and additional bedrooms and bathrooms. You need to decide on the placement of each of these spaces, in addition to the number of levels you want to have. When designing any structure, you must take into consideration who is going to use the structure, and how it is going to be used. For example, a person with disabilities or an older person may not be able to use stairs; therefore, a single level home may be appropriate. If a family with small children will be living in the home, you would most likely want to have other bedrooms in close proximity to the master bedroom. Design with adequate space to facilitate recycling collection and to incorporate a solid waste management program that prevents waste generation.

Wall Types
Load-bearing walls carry the structural weight of your home. Load-bearing walls include all exterior walls, and any interior walls that are aligned above support beams. Because exterior walls serve as a protective shield against the weather for the interior spaces of a building, their construction should control the passage of heat, infiltrating air, sound, moisture, and water vapor. The material used on the exterior shell of a wall should be durable and resistant to the

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weathering effects of sun, wind, and rain. Building codes specify the fire-resistance rating of exterior walls, load-bearing walls, and interior partitions.

Partition Walls
Partition walls are interior walls that are not load-bearing. Partition walls have a single top plate. They can be perpendicular to the floor and ceiling joists but will not be aligned with support beams. Any interior wall that is parallel to the floor and ceiling joists is a partition wall. Their construction should be able to support the desired finished materials, provide the required degree of acoustical separation, and accommodate the distribution and outlets of mechanical and electrical services.

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Frame Walls
Studs (usually 2x4s or 2x6s) are an important part of every wood-frame building because they form the building walls. Siding and wallboard hang from the studs, and the second floor and roof are supported by wall studs.

Platform Framing
Platform framing is a light wooden frame with studs; it is only one-story high regardless of the levels built. Each level rests on the top plates of the story below or on the sill plates of the foundation wall. Platform framing is most commonly used today.

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Balloon Framing
Balloon framing uses studs that rise the full height of the frame, from the sill plate to the roof plate. Balloon framing was used in houses built before 1930, and is rarely used today except in some new home styles with high vaulted ceilings.

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Wall Structures
The subject of wall structures is fairly complex. The materials used for external walls differ from the materials used for internal walls. Foundation walls must be made up of materials that can tolerate moisture and repel insects, such as termites. Certain wall materials can be used to insulate for sound; for example, as in houses located near an airport. Some wall materials have special insulation that helps to conserve energy. Walls are usually constructed of brick, gypsum board, fire-retardant wood, concrete, and stone.

Concrete
Concrete is a mixture of sand, coarse aggregate, Portland cement, and water. The sand used in concrete should be blank-run sand, which is fairly round in shape and of various sizes. The coarse aggregate is gravel or crushed stone. Concrete should have aggregate pieces no larger than onequarter the thickness of the pour. Portland cement is made of clay, lime, and other ingredients that have been heated in a kiln and ground into a fine powder. Concrete is often used for tilt-up buildings. In a tilt-up building, the concrete wall is poured at the construction site and then raised into position using a crane.

Brick
Manufactured by firing molded clay or shale, bricks vary widely in color, texture, and dimension. Despite these variations, they fall into four main categories: common or building, patio, fire, and facing. Bricks are modular, meaning that they are either one-half or one-third as wide as they are long. The most common nominal modular unit size is 4 inches. Like lumber, bricks are described according to nominal rather than actual sizes. For instance, the actual size of a 4x8 brick is 3 5/8 x 7 5/8 inches. The nominal size is the actual size plus a normal mortar joint of 3/8 to 1/2 inch on the bottom and at one end.

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For exterior walls that must withstand moisture and freeze-thaw cycles, specify SW (severe-weathering grade) bricks. For interior uses, such as facing a fireplace or a planter, you can use MW (moderate weathering) or NW (no weathering).

Stone
Building stone is divided into three basic types: rubble, flagstone, and ashlar.

s s s

Rubble is composed of round rocks of various sizes. Flagstone consists of flat pieces, 2 to 4 inches thick, of irregular shapes. Ashlar, or dimensioned stone, is cut into pieces of uniform thickness for laying in coursed or noncoursed patterns.

Quarried stone is cut from a mountainside or a pit; fieldstone is rock that has been found lying in fields or along rivers.

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Gypsum Board
Gypsum board is the generic name for the family of products comprised mainly of a noncombustible gypsum core and paper facings. Gypsum board is commonly referred to as drywall, wallboard, plasterboard, and sheet rock. Gypsum is a mineral found in sedimentary rock formations. This product is perfectly suited for fire resistance. Gypsum contains chemically combined water that is driven off as steam when subjected to high heat, effectively fighting fire. Gypsum board is the most common interior finish used today in Canada and the United States.

Wood
Wood is used as framing material and can also be used as an exterior finish. Wood is typically rated as one-hour or two-hour fire retardant; meaning that it takes one or two hours to be completely consumed by a fire. Building codes usually require that all exterior walls use Type II (two-hour) wood and interior walls use Type I (one-hour) wood.

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Fire-Stops
The Uniform Building Code (UBC) requires that every wall have fire-stops installed.

A fire-stop or fire block is a piece of material, usually fire-retardant wood, used as part of the wall framing. A fire will slow down in order to consume a piece of fire-retardant wood. This gives firefighters more time to put out a fire and allows people in the building time to evacuate. In some cases, insurance companies have refused to cover fire damage when it was determined that buildings did not have adequate fire blocks installed in the structure.

Building Codes
Occupancy refers to the use or type of activity intended for the proposed building. Occupant load refers to the number of people who occupy the space. There are ten major occupancy categories: s A - Assembly s B - Business (for example, offices) s E - Educational s F - Factory and Industrial s H - Hazardous s I - Institutional (for example, hospitals) s M - Mercantile s R - Residential s S - Storage s U - Utility

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Under the code, every building in town gets squeezed into one of these ten groups. Within each of these groups there are classifications. For example, the residential occupancy type has two classifications: s R-1: Hotel and apartment house (each accommodating more than ten persons). s R-3: Dwellings, lodging houses (each accommodating less than ten persons). Code requirements are determined by the occupancy type of your building and the number of people that will occupy it. The Uniform Building Code (UBC) states the minimum egress requirements of square footage required per person for each occupancy type. If you know how many people will be using a building, you can compute the square footage needed by multiplying the number of occupants by the square footage per person required for a building of that occupancy type. This will give you the total number of square footage required. Suppose, for example, the normal occupancy of an office building is five people. The UBC states that the Occupant Load Factor for an office building is 100 square feet per person. Therefore, the minimum square feet of floor required would be 5 x 100, or 500 square feet. Group R-3 occupancies (dwellings) are probably the least restricted of all occupied buildings. Most of the requirements simply reflect common sense. For instance, living, dining, and sleeping rooms are required to have windows.

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Walls
About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Place walls. s Modify walls. s Define a wall structure. s Design a complex wall structure.

Wall Function
Walls divide spaces and create barriers to passage. Walls are comprised of different materials. Structural, or load-bearing, walls support floors and walls above them, and therefore must be strong and resistant to movement. Exterior walls are exposed to the outside, so they have to be weatherproof and provide insulation. Interior walls provide partitions between rooms; they need to hold various building systems such as plumbing, ventilation, and electricity. They should also provide a pleasing appearance for building inhabitants.

Wall Structure
Wall structures in Revit are comprised of parallel layers. The layers consist of either a single continuous plane of material such as wood, or they consist of discrete, repeated materials such as bricks. The same principles that define wall layers apply to floors, ceilings, and roofs. A compound wall is a wall that is made up of two or more different materials. A common example of a compound wall is an exterior wall with wood siding on the outside, a wood stud middle-section, and a gypsum wallboard interior face.

Walls in Revit Architecture


In Revit Architecture, you create a wall by sketching the location line of the wall in a plan view or a 3D view. Revit creates the thickness, height, and other properties of the wall around the location line of the wall. The location line is a plane in the wall that does not move if the wall type changes. For example, if you draw a wall with its location line set to Core Centerline, and later change the wall type or structure, the edited wall will change its position and thickness around the center of the wall core, whether that core is metal stud, brick, or a concrete masonry unit. You can shift the location line to other parts of the wall structure, such as the Finish Face (Interior or Exterior). The direction that you sketch the wall determines the exterior side. This lesson demonstrates how to sketch and edit walls, modify wall joins, and define new wall structures.

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Key Terms
align compound wall element exterior fillet gypsum insulation interior layer location line merge split structure stud temporary dimension

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Walls

149

Exercise: Place Walls


In this exercise, you practice sketching walls using Revit. You can sketch walls in either plan view or 3D view. These exercises use wall sketching in plan view only. You can draw walls continuously or stop after each segment. You can switch from straight to curved walls at any time, and you can change the wall type as you sketch. Revit encourages quick sketching and the use of dimensional constraints to define length and spacing precisely. In addition, the sketch display tools make it easy to draft with precision while sketching walls. 2. On the Build panel, click Wall > Wall to begin laying out walls.

The completed exercise

Sketch Walls
1. Start Revit. In the Recent Files window, click New to open a new project.

The file opens to a plan view.

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3.

Expand the Type Selector list. Select Basic Wall: Exterior - Brick on Mtl. Stud. Clear the Chain option. Select the Single Line option.

4.

Click once near the center of the viewing window to set the starting point. Slowly move the cursor horizontally to the right. Notice that a temporary dimension displays, indicating wall length. When the wall is perfectly horizontal or vertical, a dashed line displays. As you continue to move the cursor, the dimension updates incrementally.

Tip: You may want to use Zoom in Region during this part of the exercise. A mouse with a scroll wheel enables you to zoom in and out without interrupting the sketching process. If you move the cursor up or down so that the wall is no longer horizontal, an angular dimension displays.

5.

Move the cursor horizontally until the wall is approximately 9' 0" in length. Click to set the endpoint. After you create the wall, the temporary dimension remains until you start another wall. To modify a dimension, click it to open an edit field. Enter 10. (The default unit in Imperial files is the foot.)

Press ENTER to update the wall length. This temporary dimension controls the wall length, but it disappears when you begin another action. It will not print.

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6.

The wall does not show any internal detail. On the View Control Bar, click the Detail Level icon. Set the Detail Level to Medium.

8.

On the Modify | Walls tab, Create panel, click Create Similar. This tool enables you to create an element of the same type as another without having to refer to the Type Selector.

The wall's appearance updates to indicate the components of this multipart exterior wall. Place the cursor over the right end of the wall. Click to start the next wall. Move the cursor downward so that the alignment line displays, signifying that you are placing the wall vertically on the screen.

7.

On the Modify | Place Wall tab, Select panel, click Modify to stop placing walls. Click the wall. A temporary dimension control to make the dimension permanent and orientation arrows display above the wall. Depending on your zoom in the view, the controls may sit on top of one another. Zoom in if necessary to see them clearly.

The double arrows are located on the exterior side of the wall. The direction in which you sketch a wall determines how the exterior side is placed. Click the arrows to flip the wall orientation. The wall flips so that the exterior side of the wall (brick is shown by diagonal lines) is now on the lower side.

After setting the vertical wall's direction, enter 7. The length dimension field opens automatically as you type. Press ENTER. Revit Architecture completes the sketch with a length of 7' as shown in the next illustration.

Flip the arrows again so that the exterior side of the wall is towards the top.

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9.

Notice that two dimensions display, a horizontal dimension and a vertical dimension. Also, notice how the wall joins at the corner. Because you drew the wall from up to down, the exterior side of the wall is placed to the right. You can set Ortho mode by pressing SHIFT as you move the cursor while placing a wall. This locks the cursor motion to horizontal or vertical. Start a wall at the lower end of the vertical wall and move your cursor to the right. Hold down the SHIFT key and notice how the wall is constrained, no matter where you move the cursor.

Because you drew this last wall from down to up, the exterior face of the wall is placed on the left side. 10. Click Modify. Select the right vertical wall.

Drag the wall's upper shape handle (blue circle) vertically upward. Notice that the endpoint moves while the starting point remains fastened to the previous wall's endpoint. When the cursor is above the left horizontal wall, release the mouse button to set a new length. Make the horizontal wall 8' long. Continue to hold down the SHIFT key and sketch a vertical wall by moving the cursor up. Notice that as you bring the cursor up to end the vertical line, an alignment line displays. Click alignment line to finish the wall segment.

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11. Move the wall shape handle back to its original position so it lines up with the upper left horizontal wall and the alignment line displays.

14. Right-click. Click Cancel. Repeat. This is the same as clicking Modify. 15. Select the lower vertical wall. Position your cursor over the wall until it changes into two crossed double-headed arrows. Drag the cursor to move the wall to the left so it is aligned with the left upper vertical wall.

12. On the Home tab, Build panel, click Wall. Select Chain on the Options Bar. This enables you to sketch walls continuously.

13. Sketch the walls as shown. You do not need to place the dimensions: they are there to help you with placing the walls. Use the alignment lines that Revit provides for snap points. Finish the last wall even with the start of the first wall.

16. Move the lower vertical wall back to its original position so the alignment line displays. Click the padlock to lock on the lower vertical wall into alignment with the upper.

When using the Chain option, the last point of the first line becomes the start point of the next line, thus creating a chain of sketched lines.

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18. Click Create Similar again. Select the Three Point Arc tool. Clear the Chain option.

19. Click the two open left ends of the horizontal walls as start and end points to create a curved wall. After clicking the second end, you can move the cursor left or right to place the arc. Move the cursor left so that the wall arc changes gradually. Click to place the wall at a 180-degree angle.

17. Set the right side temporary dimension to 12'-0".

Tip: You can flip the orientation of the wall's exterior side as you sketch by holding down SPACEBAR. 20. Click Modify. Click Zoom to Fit. Save the project as Unit4_walls.rvt.

In this exercise, you started a new project file and learned different techniques for placing walls. Notice that both upper and lower walls shift.

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Exercise: Modify Walls


In this exercise, you open an existing project and practice modifying walls. This exercise illustrates how to split, fillet, align, trim, and extend walls. 3. You now remove the upper right corner. To do this, you first split the walls at the intersections. Click Modify | Place Wall tab > Modify panel > Split. The cursor changes to a razor blade.

4.

The completed exercise

Place the cursor over the wall intersection. Select the intersection point to break the horizontal wall into two sections. Do the same for the vertical wall.

Split Walls
1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit4_walls.rvt from the previous exercise. Draw a wall at the angle and location shown.

Click Modify. Verify that you split the wall by selecting either wall you just split. Only part of the wall highlights, showing that there are now two separate wall sections. Both split walls are shown below.

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Fillet Walls
1. 2. Select any wall. On the Modify | Wall tab, Create panel, click Create Similar. Click Fillet Arc.

5.

You use the Trim tool to make corners later in the exercise. To remove the short walls at the corner of the building, select the walls (hold down the CTRL key to select both wall sections). On the Modify | Walls tab, Modify panel, click Delete. You can also press the DEL key on your keyboard to delete the wall sections.

3.

This is how you create rounded wall corners. You can drag the wall position or specify a radius value. On the Options Bar, select Radius. Enter 5'.

4.

Select the vertical and horizontal walls at the lower right of the building. Select the vertical wall first to keep the wall in proper interiorexterior orientation. If you make a mistake, click Undo and repeat the steps. You can also click the flip control.

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Align Walls
Revit Architecture has tools that are quicker and more precise than the use of your cursor in positioning walls accurately. 1. The Wall tool is still active. To place an interior wall: s In the Type Selector, select Basic Wall: Interior - 6 1/8" Partition s Click Line.

2.

Click Modify | Walls tab > Modify panel > Align.

3.

Select the left side (interior face) of the upper left vertical wall as the surface to align to.

Place an interior wall as shown. Do not be too concerned about the precise location of the wall. You align the wall in the next steps.

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4.

Select the left side of the new interior wall to align that face with the previous selection.

The Wall Trim Tool


1. To place two new interior walls: s Click Home tab > Build panel > Wall. s On the Options Bar, clear Chain. s Select the midpoint of the lower right horizontal wall. The midpoint is indicated by a triangular snap at the cursor.

The interior wall moves until the two walls are aligned. You can lock the alignment. You can select other parts of walls for alignment, such as location lines.

Pull the cursor straight up. Click to create a wall. The length is not critical.

Select the midpoint of the lower right horizontal wall.

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Move the cursor to the left and click. The length is not critical. The walls can cross.

5.

Select the vertical wall as shown. This will be the border.

2.

Click Modify tab > Edit panel > Trim.

3.

Select the two interior walls in turn. The part of the wall you select will highlight in blue. This is the part of the wall that will remain after the trim action. You can click Undo if you make a mistake.

6.

Select the horizontal wall as shown. This will extend to the border.

4.

Click Extend > Trim/Extend Single Element.

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7.

Save the file as Unit4_trimmed_walls.rvt.

In this exercise, you learned different methods for modifying walls: split, fillet, align, and trim.

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Exercise: Define a Wall Structure Modify Wall Structure


Weatherproofing and insulation of exterior walls to reduce energy consumption is an important part of sustainable design. Open ADA_Wall_Structure.rvt in the courseware datasets folder. 1. In the Project Browser, double-click Floor Plan:Level 1 to open that view.

Introduction
Architects determine wall materials used in the buildings they design by how the materials affect the structure and appearance of a building. A brick building and a wood-siding building give different impressions, satisfy different requirements, and vary in cost. The function of a building often determines the materials used in construction. A multistory parking garage is constructed of materials different from those used in the lobby of the hotel next door. 2. The Modify tool is active by default. Select the Exterior wall as shown.

3.

On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.

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4.

Click Duplicate to start defining a new wall type for this wall. For Name, enter 8" Insulated Stud. Click OK.

6.

Add two additional layers to the wall. Click Insert twice.

5.

To edit the structure of the wall, click Edit in the Structure value field. The Edit Assembly dialog box is displayed.

7.

To reorder the wall layers: s Click the number of Layer 2. s Click Up. s Click the number of Layer 3. s Click Down twice. When you are finished, the wall structure should be as shown.

The wall currently has a single layer of 8" with no function defined and the material set to Default Wall. Note: Core boundaries are in all walls. They are used for dimensions and to differentiate wall structure.

8.

Every layer of a wall, except Core Boundary, has a Function you can edit. To assign a Function to Layer 1: s Click in the Function field for Layer 1. s Click the arrow at the right. s Select Finish 1 [4].

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9.

To assign a Material to Layer 1: s Click in the Material field for Layer 1. s Click the icon that appears at the right.

12. Modify Layer 5 to make it the interior finish: s Set the Function to Finish 2 [5]. s Set the Material to Finishes - Interior Gypsum Wall Board. s Set the Thickness to 5/8".

From the left pane in the Materials dialog box, select Finishes - Exterior - EIFS Exterior Insulation and Finish System.

The top of the dialog box displays the total thickness of the defined structure. 13. Click Preview to preview the new wall structure.

Click OK to return to the Edit Assembly dialog box. 10. Change the Layer Thickness to 2". The value changes to 0' 2" when you click away from the field.
s

This opens a view pane on the left side of the dialog box, which displays plan or section views.

11. Modify the Function, Material, and Thickness for Layer 3: s Set the Layer Function to Structure [1]. s Set the Material to Wood - Stud Layer. s Set the Thickness to 5 1/2".

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14. Click OK to close the Edit Structure dialog box. Click OK to close the Type Properties dialog box. The wall you modified appears unchanged within the plan view. You can see the layers by changing the Detail Level settings. 15. On the Properties palette, select the view name as shown to expose its properties.

16. From the Detail level list, select Medium.

Click Apply to update the view. Zoom in to see the change in the wall you selected.

17. Apply the new wall type to all remaining Exterior walls. In the Project Browser, expand the Families branch.

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18. Expand Walls > Basic Wall. You can drag the right side of the Project Browser to the right to expand the pane, or use the scroll bar at the bottom.

20. From the Type Selector list, select Basic Wall: 8" Insulated Stud.

All the exterior walls will be switched to the new wall definition.

19. Right-click 8" Exterior. Click Select All Instances > In Entire Project.

Close the file without saving. In this exercise, you learned how to define a wall structure using Wall Properties. You opened an existing file, defined a new wall structure, and replaced existing walls using that new definition.

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Exercise: Design a Complex Wall Structure


Walls often have different materials from exterior to interior face, such as a weatherproof outside surface, a structural mid-section, and a decorated interior surface. Walls can have different materials present from the bottom of the wall to the top; for example, a wall exterior consisting of brick from the ground up a certain distance with wood siding above. Verticallycomplex interior wall surfaces may have a baseboard, wood rails, and a cornice at the top where the wall meets the ceiling. You can define a wall type with these elements, so that all walls of that type contain the desired features. In this exercise, you create and modify vertically compound walls. You create an exterior wall with a decorative brick ledge. You use the following tools: s Modify s Split Region s Merge Regions s Assign Layers

Create a Vertically Compound Wall


1. 2. Open ADA_Compound_Wall.rvt. The file is in the courseware datasets folder. The model opens in a 3D view.

3.

Select one of the Exterior - Brick on Mtl. Stud walls as shown. Be sure to select the wall and not a window.

The completed exercise

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4.

Click Properties palette > Edit Type to open the Type Properties dialog box.

Wall Sample Height


The wall sample height is a default height set in the preview pane. You can set the sample height to any value. You should set it to a value high enough that enables you to create the desired wall structure. Note that this sample height does not set the height of any walls of that type in the project. In this exercise, you accept the default sample height of 20 feet.

5.

6.

Wall structures are Type Properties. You change the type, so all instances of this type change. To define the structure of the wall, in the Structure value field, click Edit. You use the Modify Vertical Structure tools at the bottom of the dialog box. As indicated in the dialog box title, these tools only work if the Section Preview is active.

Split Region Tool


The Split Region tool divides a layer, either horizontally or vertically, into regions. When you split a layer, the new regions assume the same material as the original. You can assign different materials to regions. You can split regions into other regions. To split a layer or region horizontally, highlight one of the borders. A preview split line displays when you highlight a border. To split a layer or region vertically, highlight a horizontal (top or bottom) boundary. Note: Do not use ESC while in this dialog box, or you will lose your changes. 1. Right-click in the Preview window to access the Zoom shortcut menu. Use Zoom In Region to zoom into the lower part of the section view. You can also use the scroll wheel on your mouse to zoom in and out. Click Split Region.

7. 8.

If not already expanded, click Preview to open the preview of the wall structure. Change the view type from Floor Plan: Modify Type Attributes to Section: Modify Type Attributes. The Modify Vertical Structure Sweeps and Reveals tools activate.

2.

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3.

Place your cursor along the outside face of the wall along the Layer 1: Masonry - Brick layer. Click to split the region into two parts.

Merge Region Tool


Merge Regions is used to merge adjacent regions so they are composed of the same layer material. Prehighlight a border between regions. Click to merge them. When you merge regions, the position of the pointer on a prehighlighted border determines which material prevails after the merge. 1. Click Merge Regions.

4.

Split the outside brick masonry face again so it is divided into three sections. Temporary dimensions display so you can control the location of the splits.

2.

Place your cursor on the upper split you just created in the Brick layer. If you hover your cursor for a few seconds, a tooltip displays with a message that explains what will happen upon selection. In this case, since both regions are composed of the same layer, the message will be: Border between Layer 1 and Layer 1. After merge, assign Layer 1.

3.

Click to merge the two layers. The upper split disappears.

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Modify Tool

The Modify tool can be used to modify the position of 5. vertical and horizontal lines in the wall structure using temporary dimensions to enable you to change the composition of the wall. 1. In the Edit dialog box, under Modify Vertical Assign Layers Structure, click Modify. After a region is split, you assign a different layer to one of the regions to change its material. You create a new layer and assign it to a region. 1. 2. Use Split Region to create another split above the bottom split. To set the location of the new split: s Click Modify in the Modify Vertical Structure area. s Select the split line. s Change the height of the new split to 8" above the first one. You may have to adjust the flip arrow of the dimension.

the default 20' height you are using in the Edit dialog box. Click the arrow to observe the behavior. Click again to return to the original position.

2.

Notice that there is a temporary dimension from the split line to the base of the wall. You may need to zoom out to see the temporary dimension. Select the line of the split in Layer 1 (you may need to zoom in to select it). The dimension text turns blue, indicating that it is modifiable.

3.

Next, you assign the material Masonry Brick - Soldier Course to this new 8" tall region to create a band of soldier course (upright) brick on the exterior. To create a new wall layer, click Layer 1 in the Structure definition table. Click Insert.

3.

4.

Click the temporary dimension text. Change the value to 12. Press ENTER. Revit converts the value to 12' 0". Zoom out so you can view the entire temporary dimension as well as the split line. Notice there is a flip arrow at the split line.

Selecting this arrow will flip the temporary dimension so that it dimensions from the split up, instead of down, to the next parallel line. If you set the split offset down from the top, Revit maintains that offset distance from the top of the wall, which may be different from

A new layer is added at the top of the list.

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4.

Change the Function of this new Layer 1 to Finish 1[4]. Change the Material to Masonry - Brick Soldier Course. Click OK. The column widths in the table can be adjusted.

5.

Change the Material for Layer 2 to MasonryStone. Click OK. The preview changes appearance.

8. 9.

Click OK twice to apply the change and close the dialog boxes. Click in open space to clear the wall you originally selected. The wall face changed to show an 8" strip of brick in between regions of stone. All walls of this type have been changed.

6.

To assign the new layer to the 8" region in the preview pane, click Layer 1 to select the Masonry - Brick Soldier Course layer. Click Assign Layers.

7.

Click the 8" tall region to assign the layer to this region, as shown.

10. Close the file without saving. In this exercise, you opened a project file and created a vertical compound wall using the Assign Layers, Split Region, Merge Region, Modify, and Insert Layer tools.

It immediately highlights in blue, because it is now the selected layer. It also shows a thickness value. When a layer is selected in the table, it highlights in blue in the preview window.

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STEM Connections

Background
Todays walls are complex assemblies of materials including wiring, piping, ducting, and insulation.

Science
The primary function of walls is to carry loads to the ground. They also must resist sideways forces from wind, earth, or water and earth movement such as settling or uplift. s What is compression strength and how is it measured? s What is a shear wall?

Technology
Walls are usually considered dense and strong, but they can be composed of lightweight materials if properly prepared, installed, and protected. s Research and prepare a report on straw bale walls.

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Engineering
Many types of modern construction use walls that are composed or manufactured off the building site, and then installed rather than built.
s s

How are stress-skin wall panels manufactured? How are they installed?

Math
Building foundations and walls below grade must resist the invasive pressure of moisture in the earth. Water expands as it freezes, so foundations are set into the ground below the lowest point at which the ground freezes during winter. This varies with geographic location. There is no ground frost in Florida, but the ground freezes solid to a depth of at least 3'-0" in Maine. s What is the design frost depth in your area? s What is the design frost depth 500 miles to the north of you? s What is the design frost depth 500 miles to the south of you?

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture lesson, you learned to: s Create a wall. s Define a wall structure. s Trim and extend walls. s Align walls.

General Questions
1. Placement of walls is determined by how you want the spaces within the walls to be defined. a. True b. False 2. What type of walls carry the structural weight of your home? a. Partition b. Load-bearing 3. What type of wall framing is typically used today? a. Platform b. Balloon 4. What occupancy type is a home or dwelling considered? a. D-1 b. D-3 c. R-1 d. R-3

Revit Architecture Questions


1. The direction you sketch a wall determines the orientation (interior/exterior sides) of the wall. a. True b. False 2. The amount of detail shown inside walls in plan view is controlled using the ____ parameter of View Properties. a. Display Model b. Detail Level c. Crop Region d. Underlay 3. Wall structures are defined using Type Properties. a. True b. False 4. Wall structures can be defined so that you specify the materials used in the wall construction. a. True b. False

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 5 - Doors and Windows


About This Unit
In this Autodesk Revit Architecture unit, you learn to: s Place doors. s Load a door from the Revit Architecture library. s Place a window. s Copy a door or window. s Position a door or window. s Align a door or window.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Review doors and windows. (Discussion) Complete Exercise: Place Doors. (Student) Complete Exercise: Place Windows. (Student) Complete Exercise: Center a Door in a Wall. (Student) Complete Exercise: Copy Windows. (Student) Evaluate students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About Doors and Windows


About This Lesson
This lesson explains the different types of door and windows, the elements that make up doors and windows, and the requirements the Uniform Building Code has set for doors and windows. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s s s s

Describe the purpose for using doors and windows in a building. Identify the elements that make up doors and windows. List the different door types. List the different window types. List the requirements and building codes that should be used when designing a building with doors and windows.

Key Terms
casing design egress head glazing jamb muntins pane rough opening sash sill standard stop UBC unobstructed

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

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Overview of Doors and Windows


Doors and windows are very important design elements in a building project because they link you to the world outside. s Doors provide access from the outside into a building, as well as passage between interior spaces. s Windows are used for light and ventilation of interior spaces. The type, size, and placement of doors and windows affect the lifestyle of those who use the building. Placement of doors determines the traffic patterns throughout a building. Traffic patterns consume much of the available space, causing rooms with several doors to seem smaller. For example, a good way to join indoor and outdoor living areas is by placing a large patio door; however, this will affect the personal privacy of the occupants because of increased traffic and visibility. When planning a room layout, save plenty of space to allow doors to swing freely.

Well-positioned windows can reduce heating and cooling bills by improving ventilation in the summer and keeping heat in during the winter. When planning window positions, the effect of the sunlight should be considered. For example, to determine the placement of a skylight, you should choose a location where the shaft will direct sunlight. When planning window positions, the effect of the sunlight should be considered. For example, to determine the placement of a skylight, you should choose a location where the shaft will direct sunlight.

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Elements of Doors and Windows Doors Elements


The following are elements that make up a typical door: s Rough opening: The wall opening into which a door frame is fitted. s Head: The uppermost member of a door frame. s Jamb: Either of the two side members of a door frame. s Stop: The projecting part of a door frame against which a door closes. s Casing: Trim that finishes the joint between a door frame and its rough opening.

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Windows Elements
The following are elements that make up a typical window: s Head: The uppermost member of a window frame. s Jamb: Either of the two side members of a window frame. s Sill: The horizontal member beneath a door or window opening. Sills have a sloped upper surface that sheds from rainwater. s Sash: The framework of a window in which panes of glass are set. The sash can be fixed or movable. s Pane: One of the divisions of a window or single unit of glass set in a frame. s Glazing: The glass set in the sashes of the window. s Muntins: Divisions within a window that hold the window panes within a sash.

Door Types
There are many types and sizes of doors. When designing a building, the right type of door should be used in a specific space to utilize the space most appropriately. Most doors are factory built and designed for easy installation. Manufacturers usually have standard sizes and rough-opening requirements for certain door types. They are available in a wide variety of styles and finishes. Custom types and sizes can also be built, but usually have to be specially ordered and are more expensive. The type of door selected for a building is an important consideration for sustainable design, especially for exterior doors. Consider using a door that will be the most energy efficient for the climate and surroundings of the building.

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Typical door types include the following: Swinging

Sliding

Revolving

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Pocket

Folding / Bi-fold

Overhead

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Window Types
There are many types and sizes of windows. The windows you use in a design not only affect the physical appearance of a building, but also the natural lighting, the ventilation, the view, and the amount of space you have inside your building. Most windows are factory-built and designed for easy installation. Manufacturers usually have standard sizes and rough-opening requirements for certain window types. They are available in a wide variety of styles and finishes. Custom types and sizes can also be built, but usually have to be specially ordered and are more expensive. The type of window selected for a building is an important consideration for sustainable design. Consider using a window that will be the most energy efficient for the climate and surroundings of the building. Typical window types include the following: Fixed

Casement

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Awning

Hopper

Sliding

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Double-Hung

Jalousie

Pivoting

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Building Codes
To ensure that buildings are safe, and to protect property values, most areas require that all new and remodeling projects conform to a standard building code. Most codes are based on the national Uniform Building Code (UBC), but specific codes and standards vary depending on the area. The following are some of the requirements that the UBC requires when designing a home: At least one entry door that is at least 32" wide and 6'8" high is required in every home.

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An egress window that can be used for an emergency exit is required in rooms used for sleeping, if there is no other escape route. An unobstructed opening of 5.7 sq. ft. must be provided by the window being used as an egress. The height can be no less than 24", the width can be no less than 20", and the sill height can be no higher than 44" from the floor.

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Doors and Windows


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Place doors and windows. s Center a door in a wall. s Copy windows.

Revit Architecture Doors and Windows


Revit Architecture software provides tools for inserting door and window components into design project walls. Components such as doors, windows, and furniture are defined in family files. Some families are loaded into each empty file, and there are many more in Revit libraries that can be loaded into a project. In this unit, you learn how to place doors and windows; how to load additional door and window families; and how to position, move, and copy these elements.

Key Terms
component door family load place window

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

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Exercise: Place Doors


In this exercise, you practice placing doors and windows in an existing project.

Add Doors
1. 2. Open ADA_Doors_Windows.rvt under the courseware datasets folder. Verify that the Floor Plan: Level 1 view is active.

Add Doors
You place doors in walls at the desired locations. This can be done in a plan view, elevation view, or 3D view. Revit Architecture automatically cuts the opening and places the door in the wall. When placing doors in a plan view, Revit Architecture displays the preview door with the swing to the side where the cursor first contacted the wall. In other words, if the cursor clicked the left side of a vertical wall, the door swing would be to the left side. To reverse the swing, move the cursor to the right side of the wall. Once a door is placed, you can change the swing or hinge by using the control arrows that are created as part of the door family. To flip the door, click the appropriate double arrow control to flip the door symbol. There are also Flip Hand and Flip Facing options on the right-click context menu when a door is selected.

3.

On the Home tab, Build panel, click Door.

Weatherproofing and resistance to heat transfer of exterior doors to reduce energy consumption is an important consideration for sustainable design.

The completed exercise

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Load Families
1. With the Door command active, on the Modify | Place Door tab, Mode panel, click Load Family.

This enables you to load additional door families from the Revit Architecture library. In order to keep file size small, Revit loads a minimal number of families for doors, walls, and windows into project files. Additional families are provided for your project on the installation DVD and online. Families that are loaded into a file are available even if the file is moved to a different machine or emailed to another user. Browse to Imperial Library > Doors folder.

3.

The display does not change, except for the Type Selector. From the Type Selector list, select the door type Double-Panel 2: 68" x 80".

2.

Select the door Double-Panel 2.rfa. Click Open.

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4.

Move the cursor along the interior wall and place a door instance as shown. The cursor will snap weakly to the midpoint of the wall. Remember that the door swing will be placed on the side of the wall that you click. If necessary, use the blue control arrows to flip the door facing.

5.

From the Type Selector, select Sgl Flush: 36" x 84".

Place a second instance in the wall opposite.

Revit places door tags that number in sequence automatically.

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6.

Place instances of single doors as shown. Do not add the dimensions.

change a temporary dimension, simply click it and enter the correct value.

Remember, you control the door swing based on the side of the wall you click. You can toggle the door swing by using SPACEBAR during placement, or by using the swing control arrows. You can change the door hinge by using the hinge control arrows. If you place a door in the wrong location, use the blue temporary dimension to relocate it. To

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7.

Save the file as Unit5_doors.rvt.

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Exercise: Place Windows


You add window components to a wall by clicking the wall at the desired locations. You can place windows in a plan view, elevation view, or 3D view. Revit Architecture automatically cuts the opening and places the window in the wall. Windows have exterior and interior sides. When placing windows in a plan view, Revit Architecture puts the window tag on the exterior side of the window. If the cursor first touched the left side of a vertical wall, the outside of the window is to the left side. To face the outside of the window to the other side, approach the wall from the right side. You can reverse the window direction after placing it by using the control arrows that are created as part of the window family. To reverse the window immediately after placing it, click the double arrow to mirror the window geometry. To reverse the window after performing another operation, click Modify and select the window, then click the double arrow to mirror the window geometry.

Add Windows
1. Open Unit5_doors.rvt or continue working in the file from the previous exercise. On the Home tab, Build panel, click Window.

2.

From the Type Selector, select Fixed: 36"w x 48"h if it is not already selected.

Weatherproofing and resistance to heat transfer in windows is an important consideration for sustainable design. Placement of windows to regulate solar gain and take advantage of prevailing breezes for natural ventilation can reduce energy consumption.

The completed exercise

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3.

Move the cursor along the north wall and place a window instance as shown.

4.

Place seven more windows as shown.

The dimensions shown are for informational purposes. You do not need to add dimensions. Window tags do not number in sequence. All windows of a specific type show the same tag number. Save the file as Unit5_doors_and_windows.rvt.

5.

In this exercise, you opened an existing project, loaded a door family, placed doors, and placed windows.

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Exercise: Center a Door in a Wall


In this exercise, you open an existing project file, place a door, constrain it to be centered in a wall, and modify the wall. You practice the following skills: s Place a door. s Apply the EQ constraint and change its display. s Align and modify walls.

3.

Select the wall indicated by the red arrow to place the door. Do not be overly concerned where you place it.

The completed exercise

Equality Constraints
Equality constraints are applied to permanent, continuous dimensions to control the position of a door, window, wall, and so on. The constraint holds the position of the constrained object to the center, even if the constraining objects are moved or shifted. 1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit5_doors_and_windows.rvt. The file is also available in the course datasets folder. Click Home tab > Build panel > Door. 4. On the Annotate tab, Dimension panel, click Aligned.

Verify that the Single Flush: 36" x 84" door is selected.

Place the two permanent dimensions as shown. The dimensions must be placed as a continuous dimension. To place a continuous dimension:

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s s s s

Click the left wall. Click the center of the door. Click the right wall. Click below the wall containing the door to place the dimension.

Align Walls
1. Click Modify tab > Modify panel > Align. Select the two wall faces indicated to align. Select the upper wall first.

5.

Your dimension values may be different from the ones shown here. Notice the symbol.

Click it and it changes as shown. The door changes location. It is now constrained to be centered in the horizontal wall.

2.

The walls are now aligned. The door you centered in the horizontal wall remains centered.

6.

Click Modify to terminate the Dimension tool.

Click the lock icon to enable it. This means that if one wall shifts, the other wall will remain aligned.

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4.

Select the wall to the right of the door as shown. Dimensions display below it.

3.

Click Modify to terminate the Align tool. Select one of the EQ values on the continuous dimension. Right-click. Clear the EQ Display value.

5.

Note that the continuous dimension is still constrained EQ. Change the dimension to 16. (Revit Architecture will supply the foot-inch units.)

The dimension value is now shown. The walls shift and remain aligned. The door remains centered in the wall and the dimensions update.

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6. 7.

Right-click. Click Zoom to Fit. Save the file as Unit5_aligned.rvt.

In this exercise, you placed a continuous dimension. You also applied an EQ constraint and used it to control the position of an object.

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Exercise: Copy Windows


Populating design projects with components takes time, especially if there are many different types. Placing all the windows in a multistory office building can be complicated enough without having to remember the specifications for each type. Revit Architecture provides tools that enable you to reuse the information in a component instance or type without having to look it up each time. In this exercise, you create window instances using the following tools: s Create Similar s Copy 3. On the Modify | Windows tab, Create panel, click Create Similar. 2. Select one of the windows located in the east wall.

4.

Place the new window in the wall at the upper right of the building.

The completed exercise

Create Similar
The Create Similar tool creates a copy of a group or family instance and enables you to place it where desired. Revit gives you the ability to continuously place as many instances of the group or family as desired. 1. Open or continue working in Unit5_aligned.rvt.

Remember that the side of the wall selected determines how the window is placed.

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Copy Windows
1. On the Modify | Windows tab, Modify panel, click Copy.

3.

Pull the cursor straight down and select the wall at the lower right as the destination point.

2.

Select the window you just placed. Press SPACEBAR to terminate selection. The window will change appearance. Select the midpoint of the window as the base point for the copy operation.

4.

The window is copied.

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5. 6.

Right-click. Click Zoom to Fit. Save the file as Unit5_copy-windows.rvt.

In this exercise, you used the Place Similar and Copy tools.

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STEM Connections

Background
The development of glass strong enough for large panels has made modern doors and windows possible.

Science
s

What is the chemical reaction that turns sand into glass?

Technology
Glass is a large part of the exterior of many large modern buildings. The stability of glass in response to wind, heat, cold, and sunlight is critical to the safety and climate control performance of building shells. s Why are inert gasses put into double-pane glass panels?

Engineering
Strong, flat glass is a recent invention.
s

What is float glass and why is it important?

Math
s

What is the formula that determines the E-Rating of glass?

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture lesson, you learned to: s Place doors. s Load a door from the Revit Architecture library. s Place a window. s Copy a door or window. s Position a door or window. s Align a door or window.

General Questions
1. The placement of doors and windows is not an important part of designing a building. a. True b. False 2. Manufacturers usually have ________ sizes of both doors and windows that are factory-built and ready for easy installation. a. Standard b. Custom 3. What is the minimum width required for at least one entry door in every home? a. 28" b. 30" c. 32" d. 34" 4. If a room is used for sleeping, what is the maximum height that the egress window can be from the floor? a. 32" b. 36" c. 40" d. 44"

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Revit Architecture Questions


1. Revit Architecture automatically cuts the openings for doors and windows as they are placed. a. True b. False 2. To add a door or window that is not available in the drop-down list, but is available from the Revit Architecture library, you use: a. Load from Library b. Link c. Insert d. Properties 3. To change the swing direction of a door: a. Select the door. Right-click. Click Flip Direction. b. Select the door. Click the appropriate blue arrows. c. Click Modify > Flip Direction. d. Click Door Properties. 4. Door and window tags are placed automatically. a. True b. False 5. To change the location of a door or window, you: a. Select the door. Click the temporary dimension to be changed. b. Select the door. Click the appropriate blue arrows. c. Use door grips to reposition. d. Click Door Properties. 6. To center a door or window in a wall, you use ________. a. A reference plane b. Offset c. A continuous dimension with EQ selected d. The center snap 7. The _______ tool creates a copy of a group or family instance and enables you to place it where desired. a. Clone b. Load c. Duplicate d. Copy 8. Window or door orientation is determined by the side of the wall selected. a. True b. False

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 6 - Stairs and Railings


About This Unit
When you have completed this Autodesk Revit Architecture unit, you will be able to: s Create stairs. s Create railings. s Modify stair boundaries.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Review stairs and railings. (Discussion) Complete Exercise: Create Stairs. (Student) Complete Exercise: Modify Stairs. (Student) Complete Exercise: Add a Railing. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create U-Shaped Stairs. (Student) Evaluate students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About This Lesson
This lesson explains the elements that make up stairs and railings including stair calculations, stair and railing types, and other requirements for designing stairs and railings. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s s s

Identify the elements of stairs and railings. Describe the formulas for stair calculation. List the different stair types. List the requirements and building codes that should be used when building stairs and railings.

Stairs and railings enable people to move from one level of a building to another. Safety and ease of travel are the most important considerations in the design and placement of stairs and railings.

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Key Terms
landing egress nosing ramp riser slope stringer tread UBC

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to technology, engineering, and math standards.

Elements of Stairs and Railings Stairs


The following illustrations show the elements of a stair.

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Railings
The following illustration shows the elements of a railing.

Stair Calculations
The actual riser height (top of one riser to top of the next riser) for a set of stairs can be calculated by dividing the total rise (floor-to-floor height) by the desired riser height. Number of Risers = Total Rise / Desired Riser Height The result is rounded off to the nearest whole number. Then, the total rise is redivided by this whole number to arrive at the actual riser height. Actual Riser Height = Total Rise / Number of Risers (rounded up) You must check the riser height with the maximum riser height allowed by the building code. You can increase the number of risers by one and recalculate the riser height if necessary. Once the actual riser height is determined, the tread run can be calculated by using one of the following formulas: s Tread (inches) + 2x riser (inches) = 24 to 25 s Riser (inches) + tread (inches) = 72 to 75 The total number of treads is always one less than the total number risers.

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The following table shows the corresponding riser and tread dimensions:

Exterior stairs are usually less steep than interior stairs, particularly where there is the possibility of dangerous outdoor conditions, such as ice and snow. All risers in a flight of stairs should be the same rise, and all treads should have the same run for safety purposes.

Stair Types
A straight stair extends from one level to another without turns or winders. Building codes generally limit the vertical rise between landings to 12'.

Quarter-Turn Stair
A quarter-turn stair has two flights that connect with a landing that makes a right angle. A quarterturn stair is also referred to as an L-shaped stair.

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Half-Turn Stair
A half-turn stair turns 180 with two flights connected by a landing. A half-turn stair is also referred to as a U-shaped stair.

Winding Stair
A winding stair is any stairway that is built with winders. Circular or spiral stairs as well as quarter-turn and half-turn stairs can use winders rather than a landing. This saves space when changing direction. Due to building code, stairs that use winders are used mostly for private stairs within individualdwelling units. This is because winders can be hazardous since they do not offer much foothold at their interior corners.

Circular Stair
A circular stair is built so that you move in a circular configuration. Circular stairs can sometimes be used as the means of egress from a building if the inner radius is at least twice the actual width of the stairway.

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Spiral Stair
A spiral stair is supported by a center post and is constructed using wedge-shaped treads that wind around the post. Spiral stairs do not occupy much space, but are only permitted by building codes in individual-dwelling units.

Requirements and Building Code


Stair and railing construction is strictly regulated by the building code, particularly when a stairway is an essential part of an emergency egress system. Here are some of the requirements set by the Uniform Building Code for a residential dwelling:

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Stairs
Requirements and building codes for stairs are as follows: s The stairway must be at least 36" wide. s Handrails must not project into the required width more than 3 1/2". s Stringers and trim must not project more than 1 1/2". s Building codes generally limit the vertical rise between landings to 12'.

Landings
Landings should be at least as wide as the stairway width and have a length of at least 36". Doors should swing the direction of egress. Door-swing must not reduce the landing to less than onehalf of its required width.

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Risers and Treads


Building codes regulate the minimum and maximum dimensions of risers and treads: s Tread depth: 11" minimum. s Riser height: 4" minimum, 11" maximum. s Uniform riser and tread dimensions are required.

Nosings
s

1 1/2" maximum protrusion

Ramps
Requirements and building codes for ramps are as follows: s 1:12 maximum slope s 30" maximum rise between landings

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Handrails
Requirements and building codes for railings are as follows: s The distance from the top edge of the stair treads or nosings should be between 34" to 38".

s s

Handrails should not have any sharp or abrasive elements. Handrails should have a circular cross section with an outside diameter of at least 1 1/4", but not more than 2". Other shapes are permissible if they provide equivalent grasp ability and have a maximum cross-sectional dimension of 2 1/4". The distance between the handrail and the wall should be no less than 1 1/2".

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Stairs and Railings


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Create stairs. s Modify stairs. s Add a railing. s Create U-shaped stairs.

Stairs in Revit Architecture


Buildings with more than one level must have a means of traveling between the levels, or vertical circulation, which includes elevators, ramps, and stairs. This lesson demonstrates how to create and modify stairs and associated railings. You create stairs in a plan view. Each step of a flight of stairs consists of the part to walk on, or tread, of certain horizontal depth or run, sitting on a vertical support or riser of certain height (rise). For safety reasons, rise and run of stairs are controlled by building codes. Revit calculates the number of stair treads for you, based on the distance between floors and the maximum riser height defined in the stair properties. When you click to establish the start point of stairs, a rectangle representing the footprint of the run of the stairs displays. As you move the cursor, the rectangle displays accordingly and Revit displays a riser counter. You can define straight runs, L-shaped runs with a landing, U-shaped stairs, and spiral stairs. You can also modify the outside boundary of the stairs by modifying the sketch. The riser and run values update accordingly. Revit generates railings automatically for stairs; you can create and modify railings independent of stairs. In multistory buildings, you can design a set of stairs to go between two levels, and Revit will create identical sets up to the highest level defined in the stair properties.

Key Terms
boundary railing riser run tread

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to technology, engineering, and math standards.

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Exercise: Create Stairs


In this exercise, you create stairs using a straight run. You use the following Revit tools: s Stairs s Run s Stair Properties s 3D View 2. Zoom in Region to the lobby.

3.

You create a set of stairs from the lobby to the second level landing. Before you create the stairs, turn on the display of Level 2 in the Level 1 Floor Plan. This enables you to place the stairs properly. On the Properties palette,change the value of the Underlay parameter to Level 2.

The completed exercise

Straight Run Stairs


1. From the courseware datasets folder, open the project named ADA_Stair_Exercise.rvt. This file is in metric units. The file opens in view Floor Plan: Level 1.

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4.

Click OK to close the dialog box. You now see the outline of the floors and walls from Level 2 as an underlay (light gray).

5.

On the Home tab, Circulation panel, click Stairs.

The cursor changes to a crosshairs. The Draw panel on the Create Stairs Sketch tab displays several sketch tools. These tools are used to define your stairs. The default stair creation method is to define the run of the stairs. Run is preselected. This enables you to create the stairs by selecting the start and end of the run. You can define either a straight run or a circular run. In this case, you create a straight run, which has also been preselected in the Draw panel.

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6.

Start your stairs at the intersection point of above the double doors. You can locate the intersection point by moving the cursor above the midpoint of the doors until you see the word Intersection and dashed alignment snap lines display, indicating the intersection point of wall extensions. Select this intersection point to start your run.

8.

Revit displays the number of risers you created.

The riser counter may indicate that there are still risers to create.

7.

Move the cursor up so the run is vertical. As you move the cursor up, the run footprint stops expanding. You can continue to move the cursor up, and then click to define the run of stairs. You can also enter a distance of 4400.

9.

If you have not fully created the run, you can adjust the run dimension for your stairs. To change the run dimension, click the blue centerline and edit the dimension to 4400.

10. On the Mode panel, select Finish (green check).

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11. The stairs display with the word UP and an arrow to indicate their direction.

13. Save the file as Unit6_stair_in_progress.rvt. To avoid overwriting the original file, click application menu > Save As > Project.

AIA Standards dictate that stairs in plan include an arrow to show the direction the stair rises. The number and size of the treads and risers should also be indicated in your floor plan layout. You align the stairs with the landing in the next exercise. 12. Lobby Stair View is already created to help you view the stairs in 3D.

Save the file in a location provided by your instructor. In this exercise, you created and placed a straight run stair, and switched to a 3D view.

Open this view by double-clicking the name of the view in the browser.

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Exercise: Modify Stairs


In this exercise, you learn different ways to modify and control stair definitions using the following Revit tools: s Align s Section View s Stair Properties s Boundary s Mirror s Delete 3. You align the stair with the landing on Level 2. Zoom in close to the top of the stair run. On the Modify tab, Edit panel, click Align.

Select the front of the Level 2 landing floor as your first selection. This is part of the gray underlay you turned on earlier using View Properties.

Select the top riser of the stair to align it with your first pick.
The completed exercise

Align Stairs
1. 2. Open or continue working in file Unit6_stair_in_progress.rvt. Activate view Floor Plans, Level 1.

The top of the stair moves into alignment with the Level 2 landing. The stair is not centered on the landing.

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4.

The Align command remains active. Align the center of the wall under the landing with the center of the stairs. On the Options Bar, from the Prefer list, select Wall centerlines. Click the center of the wall first.

5.

Open the lobby stair view to see the result. If you have a scroll mouse, hold down the scroll wheel and press SHIFT. You can rotate your model to get a better view. You can also click the ViewCube in the upper right of the view and drag it to orient the model.

Click the center of the stairs. You may have to zoom out to click the Up arrow, which is located at the center of the stairs. Take time to make the selections correctly.

Enter HL to switch to Hidden Line display mode.

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6.

In the Project Browser, expand Sections (Building Section). Double-click Stair Section to open the stair section view.

railings were created with the stairs. The stairs were created using the properties of the default stair type called Stair: 180mm max riser 275mm tread. 8. Select the stairs. On the Properties palette, study the instance parameters under the Constraints, Graphics, and Dimensions subsections. Use the scroll bar on the right side of the dialog box. Change Width to 1350.

9. 7. Hover the cursor over the railing. A tooltip describing the railing properties displays.

On the Properties palette, click Edit Type. s Click Duplicate. s For Name, enter Lobby Stairs.

Click OK.

Do the same over the stair riser to read its properties.

As you prehighlight them, notice that stairs and railings are separate families, even though the

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10. Change the following parameters to: Stringers Trim Stringers At Top > Match Level Risers
s

Riser Type > Straight Treads


s

11. To change the railing type: s Open the 3D view, Lobby Stair View. s Change the View Properties to Hidden Line to make it easier to see. Your screen angle may look slightly different from the illustration.

Nosing Profile > Stair Nosing - Radius: 20 mm Materials and Finishes


s s

Tread Material > Finishes - Interior Carpet 1 Riser Material > Finishes - Interior Carpet 1 Stringer Material > Wood - Cherry

s s

Click Modify. Select both railings. Click and hold the CTRL key when selecting multiple items.

Click OK to complete the change of the stairs to the new type with the new parameters.

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12. In the Type Selector, expand the list of predefined railing types in the project. Select Railing: 900mm Pipe.

13. Next, you change the shape of the stairs. The owner wishes to have a stair that is wider at the bottom and narrower at the top. You alter the boundary of the staircase by defining two arcs that form the outside boundary in plan. s Open the Level 1 Floor Plan view. s Zoom in on the stairs. s Select the stairs (not a railing). s On the Modify | Stairs tab, Mode panel, click Edit Sketch.

The railings change. The stair changes to the run sketch, and the context tab changes to Modify Stairs > Edit Sketch. 14. Place your cursor over the left green boundary line. Click it to select it. Delete this line.

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15. On the Draw panel, click Boundary. Click StartEnd-Radius arc.

18. Move the pointer approximately as shown in the next figure. Click to place the arc.

16. Start the sketch at the intersection of the bottom riser and the left inner wall. Green alignment lines to the wall and the riser display as shown when the cursor is placed correctly.

19. Click Modify. To place the same arc shape on the right side of the stair: s Select and delete the right side boundary. s Select the arc boundary you just created. s On the Modify panel, click Mirror > Pick Mirror Axis. s Select the center-run blue line as the mirror axis.

17. To place the second arc endpoint, click the left end of the top riser.

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21. On the Draw panel, click Riser. Click CenterEnds-Arc.

First, select the middle of the seventh riser going up, the arc center point.

Next, select the endpoint of the left boundary. For the third point, select the endpoint of the right boundary.

The left boundary will be mirrored. Click to exit the Mirror command. 20. Delete the first (bottom) riser line.

This will define a rounded first step.

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22. On the Mode panel, click Finish.

Open the {3D} view to see the results. Use the Spin and Zoom tools to position your model so you can view the stairs.

23. Save the file as Unit6_lobby_stairs.rvt. In this exercise, you modified stair properties and boundaries. You also modified the properties of a railing.

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Exercise: Add a Railing


In this exercise, you add a railing to a second floor landing. Railings are typically created using a floor plan view with sketch tools.

3.

The completed exercise

To create a railing, you need to define a path for the railing. This is typically done in plan view. For simple railings, you sketch the plan view path. In this case, the railing runs from a stair railing around the two sides of a landing. Therefore, you edit the railing and sketch in the required additional path segments.
s s

Sketch a Railing
1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit6_lobby_stairs.rvt from the previous exercise. Open the Level 2 floor plan view.

Click Modify. Select the right side railing. To make sure you are selecting the railing, place your cursor over the railing to prehighlight it.

Zoom into the landing area as shown.

If the railing does not highlight when you try to select it, use the TAB key to toggle the cursor selection to the railing.

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4.

Once the railing is selected, on the Modify | Railings tab, Mode panel, click Edit Path.

6.

Continue sketching and place a 2000 mm horizontal line to the right. Place a vertical line so it ends at the wall.

5.

On the Draw panel, click Line.

s s

On the Options Bar, select Chain. Sketch a vertical line from the end of the red line to extend the railing. 7.

You do not need to add dimensions. The dimensions are shown as a guide. Select Finish to exit the railing definition.

Draw the vertical line so it is 100 mm from the starting point. To set the exact distance, enter 100 or click to place the line endpoint. Then, edit the temporary dimension.

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If you get an error message when you select Finish Railing, it is probably because you failed to select the endpoint of the existing rail when you started sketching. Delete your lines and try again. Delete the left railing and mirror the new railing to the left. Use the down arrow on the stairs as the mirror line.

9.

Save the file as Unit6_lobby_railing.rvt.

In this exercise, you used sketch tools to create a railing.

8.

Switch to a 3D view so you can inspect your railing.

You can create free standing railings that are not part of stairs and ramps. Railings are created on the level of the current view by default. Click Pick New Host while in sketch mode to create a railing that attaches to a stair or ramp.

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Exercise: Create U-Shaped Stairs


U-shaped stairs are half-flight stairs with a landing in between. In a floor plan view, the stairs appear as a U-shape. In this exercise, you use the following Revit tools: s Stairs s Stair Properties s Hide/Isolate s Ref. Plane

Create U-Shaped Stairs


1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit6_lobby_railing.rvt from the previous exercise. Activate the view Floor Plans: Level 1. Zoom into the upper left of the plan as indicated in the illustration below.

Create a Reference Plane


1.
The completed exercise

To help in placing the stairs, you create a reference plane. Revit Architecture uses reference planes for alignment. You can name reference planes and refer to them in dimensions and parameters. s On the Home tab, Work Plane panel, click Ref Plane > Draw Reference Plane.

On the Options Bar, set the Offset value to 850.

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Click at the midpoint of the wall in doorway #16. Pull the cursor straight up. Revit places a reference plane 850 mm from the line you draw, or approximately 500 mm from the wall surface.

4.

Click Edit Type. Click Duplicate to create a new stair type. For Name, enter Exit Stairs. Click OK.

5.

Change the following Materials and Finishes parameters to: s Tread Material: Finishes - Exterior: Precast Concrete Panels s Riser Material: Metal-Paint Finish, Dark Grey Matte s Stringer Material: Metal-Paint Finish, Dark Gray, Matte

2.

On the Home tab, Circulation panel, click Stairs. 6.

Click OK twice. You need to create a U-shaped run of stairs. To start sketching the run, enter SM at the keyboard to activate the Midpoint object snap for one selection. Select the midpoint of the edge of the platform (shown in underlay) at the left.

3.

On the Properties palette, change the Width parameter to 900.

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7.

Move the pointer vertically to a distance of 1925 (Revit will snap weakly at intervals that equal treads). Click to place the first run.

8.

Move the pointer to the right. Align it with the last riser line and the reference plane.

9.

Move the pointer down vertically to the edge of the platform. Click to finish the stair run. The riser counter will indicate when you have drawn enough run to create 17 risers, with none remaining to be created.

If you have trouble making the correct distance display, enter 1925. Press ENTER.

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10. On the Stairs panel, click Finish Stairs.

Use Hide/Isolate
1. You want to inspect your stairs, but they are hidden behind walls.

2.

You temporarily hide the walls in the view. Select the two walls of the stair tower. Hold the CTRL key to select both walls simultaneously. On the View Control bar, click Temporary Hide/ Isolate > Hide Element.

If you get an error message, it is because you have overlapping lines. To remove the lines, you select Continue to return the sketch. Remove the additional lines. Click Finish Stairs again. 11. On the Quick Access toolbar at the top of the screen, click 3D View to view your model in 3D.

Spin and Zoom as necessary to get a view of the stair enclosure.

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3.

The walls are now hidden. The View Control Bar shows that the Hide tool is active in this view.

6.

The stairs update to become multistory stairs.

Reset the Display


1. On the View Control Bar, click Temporary Hide/ Isolate > Reset Temporary Hide/Isolate. The exterior walls reappear.

4. 5.

Zoom in to see your stairs. This is a multistory stair, so it should repeat itself up to the top floor. Select the stairs so they highlight. On the Properties palette, change the Constraints parameter for Multistory Top Level to Level 3. 2. 3. Click Zoom to Fit in the view. Save as Unit6_exit_stairs.rvt.

In this exercise, you learned to create a reference plane, and to create a U-shaped stair. You also learned to use Properties to create multistory stairs. Finally, you learned to use the Hide/Isolate tool to temporarily hide objects.

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STEM Connections

Background
Modern buildings use a variety of methods for moving people from level to level such as stairs, ramps, escalators, and elevators.

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Science
The elevator is used in almost all tall buildings today. s Who invented the modern elevator? s What was the first building with elevators?

Technology
Railings are protective devices, but they can also be highly decorative. s What types of glass can be used in balcony railings and why?

Engineering
Escalators are more efficient than elevators for buildings with six floors or less. They cost less, require less floor space to deliver the same passenger loads, and deliver riders without wait time. They do not need pits or penthouses for equipment and do not have the complex controls of elevators. Escalators should provide clear views of the surroundings for riders; this openness makes them fire hazards. s Investigate and report on the fire safety equipment and features (sprinklers, smoke guards, shutters) installed on the escalators at your local shopping mall.

Math
s

Calculate the length of a wheelchair ramp necessary to reach a 3'-0 upper level. Include landings as required by your local building code.

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture lesson, you learned to: s Create stairs. s Create railings. s Modify stair boundaries.

General Questions
1. Exterior stairs are usually more steep than interior stairs. a. True b. False 2. A quarter-turn stair is a stair that has two flights that connect with a landing that makes what angle? a. 25 degrees b. 45 degrees c. 90 degrees d. 180 degrees 3. A stairway must be at least how wide? a. 30" b. 32" c. 36" d. 40" 4. All risers in a flight of stairs should be the same rise, and all treads should be the same run. a. a. True b. b. False

Summary/Questions

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Revit Architecture Questions


1. The Stairs tool is located on the _______ tab: a. Home b. Modify c. Manage d. Insert 2. Stairs can be defined by sketching a run or by sketching _________ and ________. a. Treads, risers b. Boundary lines, riser lines c. Run, riser d. Railings, risers 3. To create an arc-shaped landing or riser, you use the _______ option. a. Line b. Rectangle c. Arc d. Circle 4. To create railings on stairs without railings, you use the _______ tool to locate the railing. a. Pick New Host b. Attach Railing c. Align Railing d. Fasten Railing 5. You can apply materials to different stair components; that is, risers and treads. a. True b. False 6. Railings can be free-standing or attached to stairs. a. True b. False

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 7 - Roofs
About This Unit
When you complete this Revit Architecture unit, you will be able to: s Create roofs with different styles. s Define a roof structure. s Place fascia. s Place gutters.

Lesson Plan
1. Review of roof types. (Discussion) 2. Complete Exercise: Create an Extruded Roof. (Student) 3. Complete Exercise: Create a Roof from a Footprint. (Student) 4. Complete Exercise: Create a Roof with a Vertical Penetration. (Student) 5. Complete Exercise: Create a Hip Roof. (Student) 6. Complete Exercise: Create a Shed Roof. (Student) 7. Complete Exercise: Create a Mansard Roof. (Student) 8. Complete Exercise: Assign a Roof Structure and Materials. (Student) 9. Complete Exercise: Create a Roof Fascia. (Student) 10. Complete Exercise: Place Gutters. (Student) 11. Evaluate Students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About Roofs
About This Lesson
This lesson explains the elements and materials that make up roofs. It addresses roof construction, roof types, and the necessary requirements for designing roofs. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s s s

Describe the different materials used to build roofs. List the materials and construction methods for building flat and sloping roofs. Identify the different roof types. Calculate the rise, run, and pitch of a sloped roof.

Roofs function as the main element for sheltering the interior spaces of a building. The slope and structure of a roof must be compatible with the type of roofing material (shingles, tiles, or a continuous membrane) used to shed rainwater and melting snow to a system of drains, gutters, and downspouts. A roof must be constructed to span across space and carry its own weight, as well as the weight of any attached equipment and accumulated rain and snow.

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Key Terms
cellulose flat gable gambrel hipped inorganic organic phenolic pitch pyramidal slope shed span tapered

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Materials and Terminology


The following terms are typically used with reference to roofs: s Hip: The projecting angle formed by the junction of two adjacent sloping sides of a roof. s Shed: A roof with a single slope. s Ridge: The horizontal line of intersection at the top between two sloping planes of a roof. s Rake: The inclined, usually projecting edge of a sloping roof. s Eave: The overhanging lower edge of a roof. s Soffit: The underside of an overhanging roof eave. s Gable: The triangular portion of a wall enclosing the end of a pitched roof from the ridge to eaves. s Dormer: Projecting structures built out from a sloping roof that houses a vertical window or ventilating louver.

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Materials
The roof of your house provides shelter from rain, snow, and sun. The surface of your roof determines how your house looks, as well as how effective a shelter it is. How you relate your roof to the sky is very important. Sloped roofs, both low and steep, are designed for shedding water and snow. Roofing materials provide the water-resistant covering for a roof system. The type of roofing used depends on the pitch of the roof structure. Additional factors to take into consideration when selecting a roofing material are requirements for installation, maintenance, durability, resistance to wind and fire; and if visible, the roofing pattern, texture, and color. Additional factors to take into consideration when selecting a roofing material are requirements for installation, maintenance, durability, resistance to wind and fire, and if visible, the roofing pattern, texture, and color. The following materials are used in building roofs: s Composition shingles are a good choice for a clean look at an affordable price. They come in several types, brands, and colors. You can use them for many different applications. They are easy to install and require low maintenance.

Wood shingles are normally cut from red cedar with a fine, even grain and are naturally resistant to water, rot, and sunlight. Wood shakes are formed by splitting a short log into a number of tapered radial sections, resulting in at least one textured face.

Slate shingles are an extremely durable, fire-resistant, and low maintenance roofing material. These are used more often on upscale homes.

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Tile roofing consists of clay or concrete units that overlap or interlock to create a strong textural pattern. They are fire-resistant, durable, and require little maintenance. They are also heavy and require framing that is strong enough to carry the weight of the tiles.

Sheet metal roofing may be copper, zinc alloy, galvanized steel, or terne metal (a stainless steelplated alloy of tin and lead). A sheet metal roof is characterized by a strong visual pattern of interlocking seams and articulated ridges and roof edges.

Corrugated metal roofing consists of ribbed panels spanned between roof beams or purlins running across the slope. The roof panel may be made of aluminum with a natural mill or enameled finish, galvanized steel, fiberglass, reinforced plastic, or corrugated structural glass.

A primary function of a roof covering is to provide a material that sheds water, but of equal importance is its ability to provide thermal protection. In a house with a cathedral ceiling, the roof forms the ceilings of the rooms below. A dark-colored shingle will affect the interior environment by absorbing solar heat from the sun during the day. This same roof on a clear, cool night will transmit more heat from the house than would a light-colored roof. A white or nearly white roof will reflect solar radiation during the day and will not radiate much heat at night. Therefore, a light roof helps to keep a house cool during the day and warm at night. Unfortunately, the roof has to stay relatively clean in order to function properly. If thermal insulation is required under a shingle roof, choose a type that will suit your needs. Insulation comes in the following forms: s Blankets: Rolls made of glass fiber. s Batts: Precut blankets in standard sizes. s Fiberglass: Loose insulation requiring blown-in installation. s Cellulose fiber: Recycled paper particles treated with chemicals and blown-in or sprayed. s Foam-in-place: Liquid foamed plastic. s Phenolic or rigid foam: Sheets or board of foamed plastic such as polyurethane or polystyrene. When choosing the insulation for your job, consider such factors as cost, quality, special characteristics (for example, odor, treatment for insects, and so forth), and insulating capability (R-value).

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Roof Construction
Flat roofs require a continuous-membrane roofing material. The minimum recommended slope is 1/4" per foot (1:50). The slope usually leads to interior drains. Flat roofs can efficiently cover a building of any horizontal dimension, and may be structured and designed to serve as an outdoor space. Flat roofs may be structured using the following materials and methods: s Reinforced concrete slabs

Flat timber of steel trusses

Timber or steel beams and decking

Wood or steel joists and sheathing

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Sloping Roofs
Sloping roofs may be categorized into the following: s Low slope: up to 3:12 s Medium slope: 4:12 to 7:12 s High slope: 7:12 to 12:12

The roofing material used, the requirements for underlayment, eave flashing, and design wind loads are all affected by the roof slope. Steeper slopes are required in areas with snowfall to ensure the weight of the snow does not cause the roof to collapse. The height and area of a sloping roof increase with its horizontal dimensions. Sloping roofs may be constructed using the following materials and methods: s Wood or steel rafters and sheathing

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Timber or steel beams, purlins, and decking

Timber or steel trusses

Roof Types
The types of roofs are illustrated in this lesson: s Gable s Cross Gable s Flat s Hipped s Cross Hipped s Pyramidal s Shed s Mansard s Gambrel s Salt Box

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Gable
A triangular roof that enables rain and snow to easily run off.

Cross Gable
Two intersecting gable roofs.

Flat
A roof that lies flat and has a very minimal slope or none at all.

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Hipped
A low-pitched roof that enables rain and snow to easily run off. The hipped roof allows eaves all around a building.

Cross Hipped
Two hipped roofs that intersect.

Pyramidal
A hip roof built on a square base with eaves of the same length.

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Shed
One basic face with a slope. Similar to a gable roof because it also enables rain and snow to run off.

Mansard
A gable roof with a flat area at the top, as opposed to being perfectly triangular. These are commonly used in French-style houses.

Gambrel
A gable roof with two sloped edges on each face. Many barns use gambrel roofs.

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Salt Box
Similar to a gable roof, but the two sides are not symmetrical.

Roof Slope
The angle of incline on a roof is referred to as the slope or pitch. Rise and run values are used to show it as the slope; where as, rise and span are used to show it as the pitch. A number indicates the value of the rise, run, and span. The run value is typically equal to 12. s Run = 12 s Slope = rise:run s Span = 2*run or 24 s Pitch = rise/span If the slope of this roof is displayed as 2:12, the pitch is displayed as 1/12. Common slopes are: s 1 1/2:12 s 3:12 s 5:12 s 6:12 s 8:12 s 12:12 s 18:12 s 24:12

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When designing a roof, try to specify standard roof pitch. Slope is usually noted as a ratio, and pitch is noted as a fraction. Terminology used to describe roof pitch or slope include 7/12, 7-12, 7 to 12, 7 and 12, 7 on 12.

Exterior elevations should include a slope note for the roofs.

The note consists of a horizontal line to indicate the run and a vertical line to indicate the rise.

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Roofs
About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Create a roof from a footprint. s Create various roof types. s Assign roof structure and materials. s Create a hip roof. s Create a roof fascia. s Place gutters.

Roofs in Autodesk Revit Architecture


The roof of a building is its top layer of protection against weather. All roofs have to be impervious to wind, water, snow, or ice, and must have a system for draining water away from the building. Roof systems are quite varied in design and materials. Roofs are created in Revit Architecture software by the following three methods: s Footprint s Extrusion s Face To create a roof by footprint, you specify the outline of a roof in a plan view. You then define the slope(s) of the roof by identifying lines in the footprint that are edges of sloping roof planes. To create a roof by the extrusion method, you sketch the profile of the roof in an elevation view and extrude it horizontally. You can either specify the depth of the extrusion by setting a start point and an endpoint, or by letting Revit Architecture automatically specify the depth. To create a roof by face, you work with massing shapes and not building components. Creating roofs by using faces is covered in Unit 2, Exercise 1: Designing with Building Forms. Revit provides you with the ability to define roof structures so you can assign materials and layers to your roof. Once you create a roof, you can add gutters, soffits, dormers, and fascia. s Gutters are channels at the roof edges, or eaves, that convey rainwater to drains. s Soffits are the visible underside of structural members such as cornices and beams, or roof overhangs. s Dormers are projections in a sloping roof. s A cornice is a horizontal projection at the top of a wall or under the overhanging part of the roof. s A fascia is a vertical member at the outside edge of a cornice, often supporting a gutter.

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Key Terms
cornice dormer extrusion face fascia footprint gutter pitch soffit

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

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Exercise: Create an Extruded Roof


In this exercise, you create an extruded roof. To create an extruded roof, the top of the roof profile is sketched, and then extruded by applying a thickness value. plane defined for your use as shown in the illustration.

3.

Click Home tab > Build panel Roof > Roof by Extrusion.

The completed exercise

Create an Extruded Roof


1. 2. Open ADA_Roofs.rvt.. Open view Floor Plan: Level 1.

4.

In the Work Plane dialog box, select the Name option. Select Reference Plane : Breezeway from the list. Click OK to continue.

You place the roof in the area indicated by the red rectangle. Reference planes are required to sketch this roof. This exercise file has one reference

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5.

You are prompted to select a view to use while sketching the roof. A section view parallel to the work plane has been defined. In the Go To View dialog box, select Section: Section 1. Click Open View.

2.

In the Place Reference Plane context tab, Draw panel, click Line.

6.

In the Roof Reference Level and Offset dialog box, select Level 2 with an offset of 0' 0".

3.

The section view should display as shown.

To sketch a reference plane 1' 6" to the left of the left side wall: s On the Options Bar, enter 1' 6" for the Offset value. s Sketch from down to up on the external face of the wall. s Use the image below for guidance.

Drawing Reference Planes


1. The Modify | Create Extrusion Roof Profile context tab is open. Before sketching the roof's profile, you define four reference planes to help determine key points on the sketch. On the Work Plane panel, click Ref Plane.

4.

Sketch top to bottom on the external (right) side of the right hand wall to place a reference plane 1' 6" to the right of the right exterior wall face of the breezeway.

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6. 5. Set the Offset value to 0 and add a vertical reference plane between the breezeway walls. To keep the reference plane centered: s Click the icon below the temporary dimensions that display on each side of the new reference plane to make the dimensions permanent. s Click Modify. s Select the new dimension. s Click the EQ toggle.

Using the image below for guidance, sketch a horizontal reference plane 1' 6" below Level 2. Using a positive offset value, sketch from right to left along the Level line.

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Use Reference Planes to Create a Roof Profile


To make it easy to identify the reference planes, you can label them. 1. 2. Click Modify. Select the horizontal reference plane you just placed. On the Properties palette, for Name, enter Horizontal.

6.

Your third point is at the intersection of the right reference plane and the horizontal reference plane. Right-click. Click Cancel to terminate the Line tool.

Click OK. The name displays when you select the reference plane. To sketch the roof profile: s On the Draw panel, click Line. s On the Options Bar, click Chain. Start your line at the intersection of the two reference planes to the left of the vertical wall.

3.

7.

On the Mode panel, click Finish (green check).

4.

5.

Your next point is at the intersection of Level 2 and the centered reference plane.

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8.

Revit creates the roof using the Generic - 12" type.

9.

Switch to a 3D view.

Notice that the roof penetrates the walls inappropriately.

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Join/Unjoin Roof
To change the length of the roof extrusion, you use the Join/Unjoin Roof command. Not only does this adjust the length of the roof, it mates the roof edges to the exterior walls. 1. On the Modify tab, Edit Geometry panel, click Join/Unjoin Roof.

3.

Click Join/Unjoin Roof again. Using the images for guidance, carefully select the far right roof edge. Then select the exterior (left) face of the wall at the right side of the breezeway.

This is a two-step process. Select the edge of the roof as shown. Then select the exterior wall face of the garage.

2.

The roof extends to meet the selected wall surface.

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4.

The roof is now trimmed on both sides. However, the vertical walls extrude through the roof.

3.

On the Modify Wall panel, click Attach: Top/ Base.

Trim Walls
1. In the Project Browser, open the view Sections: Section 1. On the Options Bar, select Attach Wall: Top.

2.

Select both walls. To select both walls together, hold down the CTRL key while selecting them in turn.

Select the roof. This will join the wall tops to the roof.

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4.

Switch to a 3D view.

5.

The roof now looks correct. Save the file as Unit7_first_roof.rvt.

In this exercise, you: s Created a roof using an extrusion. s Placed reference planes to help sketch the roof profile. s Used Join/UnJoin to trim the roof to the walls. s Used Top/Base: Attach to trim walls to the roof.

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Exercise: Create a Roof from a Footprint Create a Gable Roof The roof footprint is a 2D sketch of the perimeter of a roof. You draw the footprint using sketching tools, 1. Open or continue working in or you can select walls to help define the roof outline. Unit7_first_roof.rvt. The file should be open to You can specify a value to control the footprint offset a 3D view. from existing walls. The footprint sketch is created at 2. On the Home tab, Build panel, click Roof > Roof the same level of the plan view where it is sketched. by Footprint.
The height of the roof base can be offset from this level using Properties. The sketch must contain a closed section representing the outside of the roof, and may also contain other closed loops inside the perimeter sketch. The inner loops define openings in the roof. In this exercise, you create a gable roof using a footprint.

3.

Because you are in a 3D view, a dialog box is displayed, prompting you to define the level the roof resides on. From the drop-down list, select Garage Roof. Click Yes.

4.

Use the ViewCube to orient the 3D view to the Top, so you look straight down as in a plan.

The completed exercise

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5.

The Modify | Create Roof Footprint context tab opens. To start the roof sketch: s In the Draw panel, click Pick Walls. s On Options Bar, click Defines Slope. s Set the value for Overhang to 2' - 0".

7.

Next, select the vertical wall on the left.

6.

Select the right vertical wall of the garage. Use the image below for guidance. Make sure the dashed green line is to the right of the wall. If you place a line on the wrong side, the double arrow placement control enables you to toggle the line from side to side.

8.

To finish the roof sketch: s On the Options Bar, clear the Defines slope option.

Select the top horizontal wall and bottom horizontal wall.

This creates a closed loop and completes the roof footprint sketch.

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Change the Roof Pitch


To change the roof pitch, you can edit the roof properties or change the properties of the slope, defining lines separately. When a roof line is set to slope defining, the slope arrow symbol displays next to it. Two slope arrows display in our roof sketch. 1. Click Modify. Select the left slope defining line. By default, roof slope is set to a 9" rise over a 12" run. That value displays next to the slope arrow. Other controls also display. Click the 9"/12" text. It becomes an editable field. Change this value to 6"/12". Click beside the edit box to enter the value.

3.

To complete the roof, click Finish.

When prompted to attach the exterior garage walls to the roof, click Yes.

2.

The new roof displays.

Select the right side roof line. In the Slope field of the Properties palette for that line, change the value to 6"/12".

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4.

Use the Home icon of the ViewCube to reorient the view away from Top.

Spin the view to see the new roof and attached walls.

5.

Save the file as Unit7_second_roof.rvt.

In this exercise, you created a roof using a footprint and you modified the slope.

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Exercise: Create a Roof with a Vertical Penetration


In this exercise, you create a gable roof using a footprint. The roof requires an opening to accommodate a chimney. Open or continue working in Unit7_second_roof.rvt. The file opens to a 3D view.

3.

On the Options Bar, set the overhang to 1' 0". Clear Defines Slope.

4.

Click Draw panel > Pick Walls.

The completed exercise

Create a Roof with a Vertical Penetration


1. Open view Floor Plan: Level 3.

To chain-select all of the walls, place your cursor over one of the walls and press the TAB key. When all of the walls prehighlight, click to select them.

2.

On Home tab, Build panel, click Roof > Roof by Footprint.

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Create a Roof Opening


1. Zoom into the chimney area.

3.

Using the image for guidance, sketch a rectangle over the chimney's exterior face.

As an alternate, you can activate the Pick Lines option and select the four sides of the chimney.

2.

On the Draw panel, click Rectangle. On the Options Bar, verify the 0' 0" Offset. 4. Right-click. Click Zoom To Fit to view the entire floor plan.

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Add Slope Lines


1. Click Modify. Select the uppermost, horizontal line.

5.

Click Finish.

6.

When prompted to attach the walls to the roof, click Yes. As in the previous exercise, the view Cut Plane makes the roof appear incomplete.

2.

On the Options Bar, select Defines Slope.

3.

Select the left lower horizontal line.

4.

On the Options Bar, select the Defines Slope. The slope indicator displays.

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7.

Switch to a 3D view to see the roof, attached walls, and chimney penetration.

8.

Save the file as Unit7_third_roof.rvt.

In this exercise, you created a roof with an opening for the chimney and applied slopes to existing roof lines.

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Exercise: Create a Hip Roof


In this exercise, you create a hip roof. Open or continue working in Unit7_third_roof.rvt. The file should open to a 3D view. 2. Zoom into the area shown.

3.
The completed exercise

On the Home tab, Build panel, click Roof > Roof by Footprint.

Create the Roof


1. Open view Floor Plan: Level 2.

4.

On the Options Bar, set Overhang to 2' - 0". Select Defines Slope.

5.

Click Pick Walls if it is not already active.

Select the three walls shown in the image.

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7.

Use the Trim tool to clean up the corners of the roof sketch if needed.

Raise the Roof


1. 6. Roof sketches must create a closed loop. In addition, sketched lines cannot overlap or intersect each other. To close the roof sketch, you use the Line tool. s On the Draw panel, click Line. On the Properties palette, change the value of the parameter Base Offset From Level to 2' - 0".

s s

Clear Defines Slope. Draw a line with no offset to close the roof sketch.

2.

Click OK. Click Finish to complete the roof.

3.

Switch to a 3D View. Right-click the ViewCube. Click View > Orient to a Direction > Northeast Isometric to quickly flip to the rear of the building.

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Join/Unjoin Roof
1. To properly join the new rooftop to the main building, click Modify tab > Edit Geometry panel > Join/Unjoin Roof.

Select the edge of the hip roof first, and then the face of the bordering exterior wall as shown.

The hip roof joins to the wall and continues into the main roof.

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2.

Save the file as Unit7_hip_roof.rvt.

In this exercise, you created a hip roof using a footprint, and then joined it to a wall.

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Exercise: Create a Shed Roof


In this exercise, you create a shed roof using the footprint method. Open or continue working in Unit7_hip_roof.rvt. The file should open to a 3D view. 3. Click Home tab > Build panel > Roof > Roof by Footprint.

4.
The completed exercise

On the Draw panel, click Pick Walls.

Create a Shed Roof


1. Open view Floor Plan: Level 2. 5. Set the Overhang to 1' 0". Clear Defines Slope.

6.

Select the three walls that define the entryway as shown.

2.

Use Zoom In Region to zoom into the area shown.

7.

On the Draw panel, click Line.

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8.

Set the Offset to 0' 0".

11. Click Modify. Select the lower, horizontal line at the front of the roof. 12. Right-click the line. Click Toggle Slope Defining.

9.

Draw a line along the outside face of the wall to close the roof sketch.

10. Use the Trim tool to clean up the roof sketch profile. 13. On the Properties palette, edit the Base Offset From Level parameter to 2' 0". Set the Slope to 6" / 12".

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14. Click OK. 15. Finish the Roof.

16. When prompted to attach the walls to the roof, click Yes. 17. Switch to a 3D view. Click the Home icon above the ViewCube to return the view to Southeast Isometric orientation.

18. Save as Unit7_shed_roof.rvt. In this exercise, you created a shed roof using a footprint.

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Exercise: Create a Mansard Roof


In this exercise, you create a mansard roof by cutting off a roof at a specific level and adding an additional roof on top of it. 3. Select the Roof. On the Properties palette, Cutoff Level list, select Level 3.

The completed exercise

Create a Mansard Roof


1. 2. Open ADA_Mansard_Roof.rvt. Activate the view North Elevation. 4.

5.

The roof updates. Open the Default 3D view. On the menu bar, click View > Orient > Northeast to orient the view. Notice that the roof is cut off at level 3.

You see four levels defined in the model. You will constrain the current roof so that it does not rise above Level 3.

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6.

Open Floor Plan: Level 3.

10. To set the slope for the new roof, on the Properties palette, set the slope value to 3"/12".

7.

On the Home tab, click Roof > Roof by Footprint.

11. Finish the Roof.

8.

On the Draw panel, click Pick Lines. On the Options Bar, select Defines Slope.

12. Switch to a 3D View. Zoom and spin to see your model.

9.

Select the inner rectangle as shown.

13. Save as Unit7_mansard_roof.rvt. In this exercise, you created a mansard roof using the footprint method and modifying properties.

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Exercise: Assign a Roof Structure and Materials


In this exercise, you specify the material and Assign a Roof Structure and Materials insulation used in your roof. A roof is considered a compound structure and is defined similarly to a wall. 1. Open or continue working in Unit7_shed_roof.rvt. The file should open to a 3D view. 2. Select the main roof over the house. Roof design is an important consideration for sustainable design. Roof insulation prevents heat loss in cold weather and unwanted heat gain in summer, thereby reducing energy consumption.

3.

In the Type Selector, select Basic Roof: Wood Rafter 8" - Asphalt Shingle Insulated.

The completed exercise

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Define a Roof Structure


1. Select the roof over the garage. It is a generic roof type.

3.

For Structure Value, click Edit.

4.

Select Layer 2 as shown.

Click Insert to add a layer. 2. To define a new roof type: s On the Properties palette, click Edit Type. 5. Set the following properties: s Set Layer 2 Function to Structure [1]. s Set the Layer 2 Material to Masonry-Tile.

In the Type Properties dialog box, click Duplicate. For Name, enter Clay Tile.

Click OK.

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s s

In the Materials dialog box, click the arrow next to the Surface Pattern field. In the Fill Pattern dialog box, select Model. Set the Surface Pattern to Shake.

7.

Click OK to exit the dialog box. The garage roof displays a pattern.

8. 6. Click OK twice. s Set the Layer 2 Thickness to 6". s Set Layer 3 Function to Thermal/Air Layer. s Set the Layer 3 Material to Insulation/ Thermal Barriers-Rigid Insulation. s Set the Layer 3 Thickness to 2".

Save the file as Unit7_roof_structure.rvt.

In this exercise, you defined a new roof structure and assigned roof materials.

Click OK.

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Exercise: Create a Roof Fascia


A cornice is a horizontal projection at the top of a wall or under the overhanging part of a roof. A fascia is a flat member placed in a vertical position at the outside edge of a cornice or roof to serve as a drip edge, to support a gutter, or for decoration. In this exercise, you define and add a fascia to an existing roof. 3. In the Open dialog box, open the Imperial/Profiles/RoofsImperial/Profiles/Roofs Select Fascia-Built-Up.rfa.

4.

Click Open. On the Home tab, click Roof > Fascia.

The completed exercise

Create a Roof Fascia


1. 2. Open ADA_Roof_Fascia.rvt. On the Insert tab, click Load From Library panel > Load Family.

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5.

To create a new fascia type using the profile you 7. just loaded: s On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.

In the Type Properties dialog box, for Profile, select Fascia-Built Up: 1 x 12 w 1 x 8. Set the Material value to Metal - Paint Finish Ivory, Matte.

6.

Click Duplicate. For Name, enter Built-up Fascia as the new fascia type.
s

Click OK to exit the dialog box.

Click OK.

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8.

Verify that your new fascia type is listed in the Type Selector list.

Move the cursor to the top edge of a roof overhang.

Select all of the roof edges to place fascia segments.

9.

Save the file as Unit7_fascia_applied.rvt.

In this exercise, you defined and applied a roof fascia.

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Exercise: Place Gutters


Gutters are important because they collect rainwater and route it away from the building walls and foundation. Architects are careful to make gutters unobtrusive, so as not to detract from the design of the building. 2. On the Home tab, click Roof > Gutter.

3.

The completed exercise

4.

To create a gutter type for this project: s On the Properties palette, click Edit Type. s Click Duplicate. For Name, enter Cove Shape Gutter as the new gutter type. Click OK.

Place Gutters
In this exercise, you add gutters to a building. 1. Open or continue working in the file Unit7_fascia_applied.rvt. The file should open to a 3D view.

5.

In the Type Properties dialog box, under Profile parameter, select Gutter - Bevel: 5" x 5". Under Material parameter, select Metal Aluminum. Click OK.

6.

Click OK to exit the Type Properties dialog box.

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7.

Verify that your new Cove Shape Gutter type appears in the Type Selector.

10. Place gutters on the eaves of the garage roof as well.

8.

Move the cursor to the top outside edge of the fascia.

11. Save the file as Unit7_gutters.rvt. 9. Select all the fascia top edges to place gutter segments. Segments will clean up at corners. In this exercise, you attached gutters to a roof.

Note: Fascias have interior and exterior faces. If you click the interior face, the gutter displays on the wrong side. You can use the double-arrow orientation control to flip gutter segments as necessary.

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STEM Connections

Background
Modern roofing uses a growing variety of shapes and materials to perform an age-old function.

Science
Wind pressure on roofs produces uplift forces that can destroy buildings. s What is the effect of roof pitch on uplift and how is this calculated?

Technology
Roofs must resist wind, water, heat, and cold. s What materials compose asphalt roofing shingles? s What materials are in roofing tiles?

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Engineering
Roofs impart loads to the walls that support them.
s s

What is a collar tie and why is it used? Name three common types of roof trusses.

Math
Roof overhangs shelter the walls below them. s Using your own house, what length of roof overhang would be needed to protect a south-facing glass door on the ground floor from sunlight at 3:00 p.m. on August 15?

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture unit, you learned to: s Create roofs with different styles. s Define a roof structure. s Place fascia. s Place gutters.

General Questions
1. Roofing materials provide the water-resistant covering for a roof system. a. True b. False 2. A roof with a 6:12 slope is considered a ________ slope roof. a. Low b. Medium c. High d. None of the above 3. What type of roof has one basic face with a slope? a. Gable b. Hip c. Gambrel d. Shed 4. When referring to roof slope, the run is always 12. a. True b. False

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Revit Architecture Questions


1. Roofs can be created using ______, ______ or _______. a. Footprint, extrusion, face b. Sketch, profile, lines c. Footprint, sketch, pick d. Walls, extrusion, profile 2. A roof is created by ___________when the shape of the roof profile is sketched, and then extruded horizontally using a thickness. a. Footprint b. Sketch c. Extrusion d. Face 3. To chain-select all of the walls when creating a roof by footprint, place your cursor over one of the walls and press the ____ key. a. TAB b. SHIFT c. DEL d. ENTER 4. You can assign a name to a reference plane to make it easier to identify. a. True b. False 5. To trim or extend an extruded roof to other roofs or walls, you use: a. Trim/Extend b. Cut/Lengthen c. Join/Unjoin Roofs d. Expand/Contract 6. Roof slopes can be applied either before or after a roof is created. a. True b. False 7. The roof _______is a 2D sketch of the perimeter of the roof. a. Footprint b. Slope c. Walls d. Material 8. To add a slope to a roofline, place a check mark next to: a. Add Slope b. Defines Slope c. Create Slope d. Activate Slope 9. Toggle Slope Defining is used to: a. Turn slopes on or off. b. Change the direction of the roof. c. Change the direction of the slope. d. Create an opening. 10. A compound roof contains layers. a. True b. False

Summary/Questions

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 8 - Sections and Elevations


About This Unit
After completing this Autodesk Revit Architecture unit, you will be able to: s Create an elevation view. s Create a section view. s Navigate between elevation markers and elevation views. s Create filled regions. s Create material annotations. s Create slope annotations. s Place a section or elevation view on a sheet. s Modify the boundaries of a section or elevation.

Lesson Plan
1. Review of Sections and Elevations (Discussion) 2. Complete Exercise: Create a New Section View (Student) 3. Complete Exercise: Change the Section Head (Student) 4. Complete Exercise: Create a Detail Section (Student) 5. Complete Exercise: Add Notes to a Detail Section (Student) 6. Complete Exercise: Place a Section View on a Sheet (Student) 7. Complete Exercise: Create an Exterior Elevation (Student) 8. Complete Exercise: Add Text Notes to an Exterior Elevation (Student) 9. Complete Exercise: Add Slope Annotations (Student) 10. Complete Exercise: Create an Interior Elevation (Student) 11. Evaluate Students (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About Sections and Elevations


About This Lesson
This lesson explains why to use sections and elevations in a set of building plans. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s s

Describe building sections and why they are used. List the information provided by an exterior elevation. Explain interior elevations and what they are used for.

A building section cuts a vertical slice through a structure or a part of a structure. Sections are used to examine the roof, floor, and wall conditions at that particular slice location. Sections are an important tool for inspecting structural conditions.

Elevations can be used to display an exterior or an interior. Exterior elevations provide information about the exterior materials of a structure. Elevations are derived from the floor plan. Interior elevations are less utilized than exterior elevations. In a residential building, the kitchen, bathrooms, and special closets are usually documented with an interior elevation in order to display casements, cabinetry, and special equipment. In a commercial structure, interior elevations may be used to show display cases, the location of special equipment, and tool racks.

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Key Terms
baseboard beam building ceiling joist column coving detail eave elevation exterior floor truss footing flush flush overlay inset lip MDF molding pitch plate rafter rise run ridge sections sheathing slope soffit span stucco stepped footing topset window well wood siding

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Building Sections Building Section Information


A building section is used to show the following types of information: s Type of foundation s Floor system s Exterior/Interior wall construction s Beam and column sizes, and their materials s Plate and/or wall heights s Floor elevations s Roof pitch

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Insulation requirements

Purpose of Building Sections


Building sections are used in a set of building plans for the purpose of showing the following information about the building: s Vertical relationships of the structural members called for on the floor, framing, and foundation plans. s Methods of construction for the framing crew. s Vertical transportation method (stairs).

Drafting Building Sections


Some general rules for drafting building sections are: s Each major structural material must be drawn and dimensioned. s Generally falls into two classifications: t Longitudinal, on the long axis of the building. t Cross or transverse sections, across its narrower dimension. s The indicators for these sections are applied to the floor plan and elevation sheets, and are properly cross-referenced. s Section lines need not be entirely straight; they can be offset to show a particular feature of the building. Building sections commonly show insulation methods and values, as well as weatherproofing and ventilation methods. Simple techniques carried throughout a building can greatly reduce energy consumption.

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Section Types
There are four basic types of sections: wall, full, partial, and steel. Wall sections allow the structural components and callouts to be clearly drawn and usually make larger-scale details, such as framing connections and foundation details, unnecessary.

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Full sections show the entire width of a building and detail the various components used in construction.

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Partial sections are used to show a specific condition in a small localized area.

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Steel sections are used in buildings built mainly with steel members. The section is used to establish column and beam heights as well as detail welds.

Exterior Elevations
Exterior elevations provide the following useful information: s Exterior materials used. s Horizontal and vertical dimensions not shown on other views. s Structural members inside walls (using hidden lines). s The position relationship between different elements, such as doors and windows. s Door and window bubbles/labels for schedules.

View Scale
Exterior elevations are usually scaled at the same scale as the floor plan. For larger elevations, it is acceptable to decrease the scale.

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Exterior Materials
Elevations are also used to specify the exterior materials used on the building. For a wood structure, the surface covering and underlayment is notated. The size of the object is listed first, and then the name of the material, followed by any additional information about spacing, quantity, or methods of installation. For siding, it is perfectly acceptable to use the phrase "Install per Mfr." Mfr. refers to the manufacturer of the siding or exterior materials. Most manufacturers of building materials provide instructions on how to install so the material does not allow water to leak into the building, and so forth. The materials used on the exterior of a building are an important part of sustainable design. Carefully consider building materials that are appropriate for the conditions of the building site.

Unnecessary Information
Shades, shadows, bushes, cars, people, and flowers do not belong in an exterior elevation. Do not dimension anything on the exterior elevation that has been dimensioned elsewhere. Most horizontal dimensions are shown in the floor plans. Therefore, most exterior elevations show primarily vertical dimensions. You do not need to dimension windows and doors because that information will be contained in the window and door schedule. You may, however, reference doors or windows to a schedule on an exterior elevation using tags.

Interior Elevations
Interior elevation views depict detailed views of interior walls and show how the features of that wall should be built. Kitchens and bathrooms are examples of rooms that might be shown in an interior elevation.

Interior Orientations
In exterior elevations, the titles assigned (North, South, East, and West) are based on the direction the structure faces. With interior elevations, this is reversed; the title is based on the direction the viewer is looking. For example, if you are standing in an office lobby facing north, the interior wall you are looking at will be labeled North Lobby Elevation.

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View Scale
Most interior elevations are scaled at 1/2" = 1' 0". Most floor plans are scaled at 1/4" = 1' 0". Other acceptable scales are 3/8" = 1' 0" or 1/8" = 1' 0".

Casements and Cabinets


The primary purpose of interior elevations is to describe cabinet work, casements, and special equipment such as toilets, dishwashers, and other appliances. There are three main types of cabinet doors: flush, flush overlay, and lip. You should specify the type of cabinets to be installed. Flush: This cabinet type is also called inset. The frame has a square edge (no bead) and the door/ drawer is set into the cabinet frame opening. Flush Overlay: The doors/drawers lay on top of the frame. The doors and drawers are made larger than normal to almost cover the entire cabinet frame. Door and drawer edges almost touch each other. This is more costly than regular overlay. Hinges are concealed. Lip: This cabinet type has one door slightly overlaying its opposing door. Cabinet elevations show cabinet lengths and heights, distance between base cabinets and wall cabinets, shelf arrangements, doors and direction of door swings, and materials used. Interior wall elevations show wall lengths, finished floor-to-ceiling heights, doors, windows, other openings, and types of finish materials used.

Intersection of Wall and Floor/Ceilings


Interior elevations can also describe the treatment of wall and floor joins. This is usually done using a topset, coving, or a baseboard. Wall and ceiling intersections may use moulding. Topset is commonly rubber or vinyl. This trim is usually applied to linoleum tile so that the edges do not crack or break. The trim is usually glued into place. It is curved so it overlays the floor and a small part of the wall. Coving is a method where the floor material is curved upward against the wall. A baseboard is usually a strip of wood. The wood is placed vertically against the wall. The thickness of the wood conceals any gaps between the floor material (usually carpet, tile, or linoleum) and the wall. The baseboard may be painted or stained to protect the wood. Molding is usually made of plaster, wood, or MDF, which is a formed pressboard. Molding is normally decorative in nature. It may have curves, chamfers, or decorative patterns. Molding is commonly used at the top and bottom of walls where it intersects with the floor or ceiling. It can also be used around doorways and windows.

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Sections and Elevations


About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Create a new section view. s Change the section head. s Create and add notes to a detail section. s Place a section view on a sheet. s Create and add notes to an exterior elevation. s Add slope annotations. s Create an interior elevation.

Exterior Elevations
Autodesk Revit Architecture software includes default exterior elevation views with project templates. Opening an elevation view is as easy as selecting the elevation name in the Project Browser. Revit will automatically update your elevation views if you make any changes to the floor plan.

Section Views
You can create section views in the design by placing a section line. This automatically creates the section view in the model, and a section symbol on all plans. You can also create a construction grid with identification tags on the drawing and have the tags display in the model.

Callouts and Detail Sections


You can create large-scale views of plans and sections by placing a callout. This automatically creates a detail view of the area inside the callout that you can then add to a sheet. Detail views hold annotations and other drafted or sketched information.

Interior Elevation Views


You can create interior elevation views in the design by placing an interior elevation symbol in a room. This automatically creates the elevation views of the room, which you can then add to a sheet. Construction grids display in interior elevation views to provide a point of reference for these drawings.

Key Terms
annotation boundary detail elevation exterior filled region interior note section sheet slope view

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Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Section Views Section Command

Section View
The Section command enables you to define a section view through your design. A section is a horizontal view, like an elevation, but it cuts the model to show structure rather than surfaces. You define the section by sketching a section line in a plan view through the building (or family) where you want the section to cut the model. The section line has a section head on one end with the view name and view direction arrow. The section has an associated crop region that sets its depth of view. Once created, the section view updates as the design changes or if the section line is modified.

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Section Symbol Visibility


The section symbol is visible in a plan, elevation, or other section view, provided its crop region intersects the view. For example, if you resize the crop region of the section view so that it no longer intersects a plan view plane, the section symbol does not display in that plan view. Section symbols can display in elevation views even if the elevation crop boundary is turned off. The section displays in elevation if the section line intersects the elevation clip plane. To view and modify the position of the elevation clip plane, select the arrowhead of an elevation symbol in a plan view, and the clip plane displays with drag controls on it.

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If you resize the clip plane so that it no longer intersects the section line, the section does not display in the elevation view.

Controlling View Depth


The Section command can control the view depth of the section. When you create a section view, it includes a crop region to resize the view. By resizing the crop region, you can more closely control what displays in the section view.

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Reference Bubbles
The Section command also allows either a one-to-one relationship between a section bubble and a section view, or multiple reference section bubbles that point to one section view.

Detail Sections
Details are close-up views of the building model, in which the designer adds specific information and instructions. Details are crucial for effective construction. Many companies build up libraries of standard details for use on more than one project. In a set of construction documents, pages with large-scale views show indicators called callouts that list the close-up views. This provides a navigation system so readers can move from view to view to find the information they need. Detail sections are easy to create in Revit Architecture once you understand the following process: s Create a new section of the area you intend to detail with the Callout tool. s Create Filled Regions to represent the different structural elements or materials, tracing over the existing elements. s Add structural details, such as anchor bolts and siding. s Add detail notes. s Add breaklines as needed. s Turn off Visibility of Model elements as needed. Once you create the detail section, you can drag and drop it onto any sheet. You can also save your detail sections for use in more than one project.

Roof Slope
Exterior elevations should include slope indicators for roofs. A standard indicator consists of a number and horizontal line to indicate the run, and a number and vertical line to indicate the rise.

The number indicates the value of the rise and run. In the example shown, the rise has a value of 2 and the run has a value of 12. The run always has a value of 12 when using imperial units. The slope is the ratio rise:run. Slope is also referred to as pitch. So, the slope of this roof is 2:12, which is spoken as 2 in 12. Slope values can also be displayed as fractions: 2/12. Common slopes are:

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s s s s s s s s s

1-1/2:12 3:12 5:12 6:12 8:12 9:12 12:12 18:12 24:12

When designing a roof, try to specify standard roof pitch. The minimum pitch to use when designing shingle-covered roofs in climates with snow is 3:12.

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Exercise: Create a New Section View


In this exercise, you create a section view and modify the properties of the section line and section view.

The completed exercise

6.

Move the cursor horizontally and place the section line end to the right of the exterior wall.

Create a Section View


1. 2. Open the file ADA_Sections.rvt. The file opens to a 3D view. Open the view Floor Plans: GROUND FLOOR.

3.

The Section command is available from the View tab. On the View tab, Create panel, click Section.

4.

In the Scale list on the Options Bar, select a view scale of 1/8" = 1'-0".

The section symbol is composed of different components:

5.

Place the pointer at the left of the staircase.

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The section bubble contains the information regarding which sheet to view the section on. The section tail indicates the end of the section cut. The section arrowhead indicates the direction in which the section is facing. The dotted green rectangle indicates the depth of the section cut. This is called the crop region, and it has control grips to resize it. The blue flip arrows that display when the section is selected enable you to flip the direction of the section cut. The controls next to the head and tail enable you to cycle through head and tail symbols. The mark in the center of the section line enables you to put an adjustable break in the section line.

Section Properties
1. With the section line selected, the Properties palette holds several options for controlling the extents of the view: s Crop View activates or de-activates the crop. s Crop Region Visible hides or displays the crop boundary. s Annotation Crop activates or de-activates a secondary boundary to control annotation display. s Far Clipping shows options for display at the clip plane. This is the green dotted line parallel to the section line. s Far Clip Offset allows for specific placement of the far clip boundary. You can enter a value in this field or use the grips on the crop region to modify the depth. Notice the value for Far Clip Offset.

2.

Select the control on the middle of the far clip plane. Drag the far clip plane to the middle of the building. The actual location is not critical.

3.

On the Properties palette, the value for Far Clip Offset has been updated.

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4.

When you drew the section line, you automatically created a section view. The view is listed in your Project Browser.

Double-click Section 1 to activate the Section view.

8.

Save the file as Unit8_section1.rvt.

In this exercise, you created a section view and modified the properties of the section line and section view.

5. 6.

Note that it is difficult to see the stairs on the left because there are doors located behind them. The Section view is still editable (the border is blue). In the Properties palette, change Far Clip Offset to 10. Clear Crop Region Visible.

7.

The section view updates. The rectangle that appeared around the view is no longer visible. Note that the stairs are now easier to see.

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Exercise: Change the Section Head


Revit Architecture provides a selection of annotation symbol styles. Several section head families are available. They include Section Head - 1 point Filled, Section Head - Filled, and Section Head - No Arrow. In this exercise, you create a new section head style and apply it to an existing section line. 4. Switch to Floor Plans: GROUND FLOOR view.

5.

On the Manage tab, Settings panel, click Additional Settings > Section Tags.

The completed exercise

Change the Section Head


1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit8_section_1.rvt. On the Insert tab, Load from Library panel, click Load Family.

3.

Open the folder Imperial Library/Annotations. Select Section Head-Open.rfa.

6. 7.

In the Type Properties dialog box, click Duplicate. For Name, enter Open Arrow. Click OK.

Click Open to load the family. The view does not change.

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8.

For Section Head, select Section Head - Open. Click OK.

9. Select the section line. 10. On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.

Click Duplicate. 11. For Name, enter Open Arrow. Click OK.

12. In the Section Tag field, select Open Arrow.

Click OK twice to exit the dialog box. 13. The section head updates to the new head type. No values display in the bubble because the section has not been assigned to a sheet.

14. Save as Unit8_section_open.rvt. In this exercise, you created a new section head style and applied it to an existing section line.

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Exercise: Create a Detail Section


In this exercise, you create a detail section view using the following tools: s Callout s Filled Region s Detail Lines s Detail Component s Insulation This is a long exercise. Plan your breaks and save your work accordingly. 3. On the View tab, Create panel, click Callout.

4.

On the Options Bar, set the Scale to 1 1/2" = 1'-0".

5.

Create a callout around the left side of the foundation sill by dragging a rectangle around it. Use the image below for guidance.

The completed exercise

Create a Detail Section


1. 2. Open file ADA_Detail_Section.rvt. Open the view Sections (Section 1) > Section 1. This is a building section; it extends from one exterior wall across to the other side of the building.

6.

To reposition the callout head, select the border of the callout. The callout view highlights and displays drag handles. Select the callout head drag handle and move the head to the bottom left side of the view as shown.

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7.

On the Properties palette, change the View Name to Detail at Foundation Sill. Change the Visual Style to Hidden Line.

3.

You create a filled region representing the sloped grade outside the foundation wall. On the Draw panel, Line is selected automatically. On the Options Bar, select Chain.

4. 8. Save the file as Unit8_foundation_detail.rvt. Save the file again as needed so you can return to it.

Trace over the lower left corner of the view, as shown. Revit Architecture snaps to endpoints and corners, but not strongly. You will probably need to Zoom (in and out) and Pan (back and forth) to draw the four lines correctly.

Detail the View


Detail components are view specific. You can add detail lines, detail components, region patterns, and insulation objects to a view that will be visible only in that view. 1. Double-click Sections (Callout 1): Detail at Foundation Sill to open the callout view.

2.

On the Annotate tab, Detail panel, click Region > Filled Region.

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5.

Click Modify. Select the upper and right side lines. Hold down the CTRL key to select more than one item. Use the Line Style Selector to change them to Wide Lines.

You could also use the Subcategory field on the Properties palette.

6.

On the Properties palette, click Edit Type to access the Type Properties.

7.

Click Duplicate to create a new Fill Pattern type. Click OK. For Name, enter Earth.

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8.

From the Fill Pattern list, select Drafting Pattern Type EARTH as shown below. Click OK.

Add Detail Components


Detail components are 2D family objects, which are visible only in the view where they are placed. 1. On the Annotate tab, Detail panel, click Component > Detail Component.

9.

Click OK twice to exit the dialog boxes. On the Mode panel, select Finish (green check).

2. 3. Depending on your zoom settings and the selected fill pattern, the filled region may appear as solid fill. If you zoom in closer, the pattern becomes visible.

On the Place Detail Component tab, Detail panel, click Load Family. Open the folder Imperial Library/Detail Components/Div 06-Wood and Plastic/06100Rough Carpentry/06110-Wood Framing.

Select Nominal Cut Lumber - Section.rfa.

Click Open.

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4.

In the Specify Types dialog box, CTRL+select 2x4 and 2x10.

5.

From the Type Selector, select Nominal Cut Lumber Section : 2 x 10. Press SPACEBAR once to rotate the component 90 degrees.

Click OK.

Place the 2 x 10 Lumber as shown.

You can select the lumber section after it is placed initially. Use Move and/or Rotate to place it precisely into position.

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6.

Using the image below for guidance, add a second copy of the 2 x 10. Press SPACEBAR as necessary to orient the component vertical. Move it after placement if necessary.

8.

From the Type Selector, select Plywood.

7.

You can use the arrow keys to nudge selected objects a small distance. Add another Detail Component. From the Type Selector list, select Nominal Cut LumberSection: 2 x 4.

Place the 2 x 4 component as shown.

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9.

Place the Plywood component above the last 2 x 10 added to the model. This component represents the subflooring.

11. Click Modify. Select the vertical plywood. On the Properties palette, set the Thickness to 3/4".

You may need to realign the plywood with the wall face. 12. Click Component > Detail Component. From the Type Selector, select anchor bolt.

10. Add another plywood component to the exterior face of the wall. Use the image below for guidance. The exact vertical placement is not critical. Place the component similarly to the image below, at the midpoint of the horizontal 2 x 10.

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13. Add another Detail Component. From the Type Selector, select Lap Siding.

14. Click Modify. Select the siding component and move it down vertically 3/4" so it extends past the plywood to make a drip edge.

Place the siding against the plywood on the exterior face of the wall. Use the image below for guidance.

On the Modify panel of the context tab, select Copy. On the Options Bar, select Multiple.

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15. Copy the siding 8" up (90 degrees) three times to indicate that the siding continues up the wall.

2.

On the Annotate tab, Detail panel, click Detail Line.

From the Line Style Selector, select Wide Lines.

16. Save the file.

Add Detail Lines


1. Use Zoom In Region to the area indicated.

Sketch detail lines to enclose the end of the lap siding. Start at the end of the siding.

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3.

Draw the line up 3/4" to meet the plywood.

4.

Draw the next line horizontally 3/4" to intersect with the wall.

5.

Zoom out. Still using Wide Lines, click the Rectangle tool on the Draw panel. Sketch the baseboard as shown: 3/4" wide x 3 1/2" high.

The completed detail should resemble the illustration shown.

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6.

7.

Next, you show the gypsum board in the wall. Click Modify. Select the wall so it highlights. Right-click. Click Element Properties > Type Properties. Click Edit in the Structure field. In the Edit Assembly dialog box, select the Material field in row 3, identified as Wall material 1. Click the icon that displays to open the Material dialog box.

9.

Click OK three times to exit all dialog boxes. The wall display updates.

8.

Click the button next to Pattern in Cut Pattern area. Select Gypsum-Plaster from the list.

10. Save the file.

Add Insulation
1. On the Annotate tab, Detail panel, click Insulation.

2.

Accept the default Width of 0'-3" from the Options Bar. Start at the midpoint of the 2 x 4 component and sketch the insulation up to the edge of the section.

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2.

Place the breakline near the middle of the wall section as shown. The component snaps to the middle of the wall.

Add Breaklines
The breakline detail component is composed of model lines and an adjustable filled region on one side. 1. On the Annotate tab, Detail panel, click Component > Detail Component. From the Type Selector, select Break Line.

3.

Your view should resemble the image shown.

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4.

You place another breakline. The Detail Component tool is still active. Press SPACEBAR three times to rotate the Detail Component so the masking element is on the right. The temporary dimensions will give the visual clues you need to determine which way it is facing.

6.

Click Zoom to Fit. Select the edge of the view (the crop region). Drag the right side control dot to the left so that it reaches the masking region for the breakline you just adjusted. The view should resemble the image shown.

5.

Place the breakline as shown. To complete the detail, add breaklines at the bottom and left sides. Breaklines are placed in details wherever a material extends past the extents of the detail view. Save the file.

7.

In this exercise, you created a detail section view and added filled regions, detail lines, and detail components to it.

Click Modify to terminate the Detail Component tool.

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Exercise: Add Notes to a Detail Section


Notes on sections and elevations follow rules established by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The size of the object is listed first, and then the name of the material and any additional information about spacing, quantity, or methods of installation. For example: s 1" x 8" redwood siding over 15# felt s Cement plaster over concrete block

Add Notes
In this exercise, you add notes to the detail section you created in a previous exercise. To add notes, you use the Text tool on the Annotate tab. 1. 2. 3. Open or continue working in Unit8_foundation_detail.rvt. The file opens to Detail at Foundation Sill. With nothing selected in the view, the Properties palette displays View Properties: s Clear Crop Region Visible. s Clear Annotation Crop.

Details illustrate and specify insulation methods and values, weatherproofing, and ventilation methods in construction documents. Simple techniques carried throughout a building can greatly reduce energy consumption.

The border around the view will disappear.


The completed exercise

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4.

On the Annotate tab, Text panel, click Text.

8.

Enter RED CEDAR LAP SIDING - 4" WEATHERING. Click off the leader to terminate the text entry.

5.

From the Type list, select Text: 3/32" Architectural Text. 9. Start the next text at the vertical plywood board. As you pull your cursor to the right, you activate alignment lines to help create your next leader in line with the first one. Architectural standards favor aligned notation.

6.

On the Format panel, click Two Segments.

7.

10. Enter 3/4" EXTERIOR GRADE PLYWOOD Click the lap siding to set the location of the SHEATHING. leader arrow as shown. Move the pointer up 11. Start the next text at the center area of the and to the right to set the location of the elbow. insulation. Finally, move the cursor to the right and click to Enter 3 1/2" FIBERGLASS BATT INSULATION place the text box. R13.

12. Start the next text in the gap between the insulation and the interior wall. Enter 5 MIL VAPOR RETARDER.

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13. Start the next text at the interior wall. Enter 5/8" GWB - TYPE X. Note: GWB is an acronym for Gypsum Wall Board, and an X rating means a level of fire resistance.

17. Start the next text at the floorboard. Enter 1" T&G PLYWOOD DECK. Note: T&G signifies tongue and groove. 18. Start the next text at the 2 X 10 vertical lumber below the floorboard. Enter 2 X 10 WD RIM JOIST. Click ENTER to start a second line of text. Enter 2 x 10 WD JOISTS @ 16" O.C. as the second line of text. Click off the text to finish the entry.

14. Start the next text at the 2 X 4 lumber. Enter 2 X 4 WOOD STUDS @ 16" O.C.. O.C. is an acronym for On Center. 15. You can use the grips to rearrange your notes so that they are neater and closer together. Keep text notes from covering the lines of the graphics. 19. Start the next text at the 2 X 10 horizontal lumber below the floorboard. Enter 2 x 10 PT WD SILL PLATE CONT. . Note: PT signifies Pressure Treated, or wood treated with preservative against rot. CONT is short for Continuous. 20. Start the next text at the anchor bolt. Enter 3/8" X 8" GALV ANCHOR BOLT @ 30" O.C..

16. Start the next text at the baseboard. Enter 1 X 4 PAINT GRADE BASEBOARD.

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Note: GALV signifies galvanized. Galvanizing is a zinc-based coating applied to steel to protect it from rust and corrosion. 21. Start the next text at the anchor bolt below the floorboard. Enter 8" CONC FOUNDATION WALL - . Click ENTER to start a second line. Enter SEE STRUCTURAL DWGS FOR DETAILS. Note: CONC signifies concrete.

22. Click Modify. Click Zoom to Fit. 23. Save the file as Unit8_foundation_detail_complete.rvt. In this exercise, you used the Text tool to place a series of detail notes.

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Exercise: Place a Section View on a Sheet


Once you have created your detail, section, or elevation view, you will want to add the views to a sheet. In this exercise, you create a new sheet with your custom title block, and locate the detail view on it. 4. Locate the A-Landscape.rfa title block you created in Unit 3. Click Open. This file is also available in the courseware datasets.

Highlight your title block. Click OK to exit the dialog box. The new sheet becomes the current view. Open the view Detail at Foundation Sill.

5.
The completed exercise

Add a New Sheet


1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit8_foundation_detail_complete.rvt. In the Project Browser, highlight Sheets. Right-click. Click New Sheet.

6.

Adjust breaklines at the bottom and left sides to display closer to the foundation wall as shown. You can use a combination of the grip controls and the Move command.

3.

In the Select a Titleblock dialog box, click Load.

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7.

On the View Control Bar, click Show Crop Region.

Drag the left and bottom sides of the view crop close to the wall-floor join as shown.

On the View Control Bar, click Hide Crop Region.

9. You are making the section view more compact so it fits easily on the new sheet. Select a Level Line. Click the control at its left end. Drag it to the right, close to the crop border. Both Level ends will move together.

Double-click the new sheet in the Project Browser to open that view. In the Project Browser, select view Detail at Foundation. Drag and drop the view onto the sheet.

8.

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10. In the Project Browser, highlight the new sheet. Right-click. Click Rename.

12. Zoom into the title block and update the values as needed.

11. For Number, enter S.301. For Name, enter Detail at Foundation Sill.

13. Click Zoom to Fit. Save as Unit8_foundation_detail_sheet.rvt. Click OK. In this exercise, you: s Created a new sheet. s Adjusted the properties and layout of the detail view. s Added your detail section view to the sheet. s Modified the label values in the title block.

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Exercise: Create an Exterior Elevation


Elevation views are part of the default template in Revit Architecture. When you create a project with a template, four elevation views are included: north, south, east, and west. The steps to create an exterior elevation are: s Set the display for your elevation to Hidden Line. s Set the display for building components as needed. s Create filled regions for exterior elements as needed. s Add material notes. s Add slope indication for roof. s Add any necessary dimensions.

Turn On Elevation Markers


1. 2. 3. Enter VG to bring up the Visibility/Graphics dialog box. Click the Annotations tab. Select Elevations.

4. 5.

Click OK. Right-click. Click Zoom to Fit.

The completed exercise

Create an Exterior Elevation


1. 2. Open ADA_Elevations.rvt located in the courseware datasets folder. Open Floor Plans > Ground Floor.

6.

The elevation markers are now visible. Select the point of the west elevation marker (the one located to the left of the building with the arrowhead pointing east). You can now see the region defined by the west elevation marker. It is defined by the green dotted line.

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2.

Next, adjust the display so you can use this view on a sheet. On the View Control Bar, click Visual Style > Hidden Line.

3. 4.

Enter VG to open the Visibility/Graphics dialog box for this view. On the Modelling tab, clear Planting.

5.

On the Annotations tab, clear Sections.

Switch to an Elevation View


1. Double-click the west elevation arrowhead to activate the west elevation view. Enable the visibility of Levels

6.

Click OK to exit the dialog box.

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7.

Hover your cursor over one of the walls with no surface pattern.

12. Click OK to exit all dialog boxes. Both visible instances of the stucco wall update their display to show a pattern.

8.

Select the wall. On the Properties palette, click Edit Type. 9. In the Type Properties dialog box, select Edit in the Structure field. 10. Select the Material field for Layer 1. It will be identified as Condo - Exterior Stucco. Click the button that displays to select a material.

13. Click Zoom to Fit. Save the file as Unit8_elevation.rvt. In this exercise, you activated an elevation view, modified its display, and modified the wall display characteristics.

11. In Surface Pattern, click to open the list. Select Sand.

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Exercise: Add Text Notes to an Exterior Elevation


In this exercise, you add text notes to your exterior elevation using the Text tool. Material notes should follow the same rules as notes on other views. The size of the object is listed first, then the name of the material and any additional information about spacing, quantity, or methods of installation. 4.

Add a note for the foundation.

The completed exercise

Add Text Notes


1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit8_elevation.rvt. If you pause the cursor over each element you need to identify, you can use the description indicated in the status bar and tooltip to assist you in writing your material note. Hover the cursor over the foundation wall region.

5.

Add a note for the stone wall.

3.

Enter TX. In the Type Selector, set the Type to Text: 1/4" text. Set the Leader type to One Segment.

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6.

Add a note for the brick wall.

8.

Add a note for the roof.

7.

Add a note for the exterior stucco.

9.

Save the file as Unit8_elevation_annotated.rvt.

In this exercise, you added text notes to your exterior elevation.

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Exercise: Add Slope Annotations


In this exercise, you add slope indicators to an elevation view to specify roof pitch. 4. On the Options Bar, from the Slope Representation list, select Triangle. For Offset from Reference, enter 1/8".

5.

Place the cursor over the roof line as shown.

The completed exercise

Add Slope Annotations


You apply slope notes and dimensions to an exterior elevation. 1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit8_elevation_annotated.rvt. Use Zoom In Region to zoom into the upper left of the roof. 6. Click to select the roof line. Click again to locate the slope indicator.

You can drag points on the slope indicator using the handles.

3.

On the Annotate tab, Dimension panel, click Spot Slope.

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7.

Place the cursor over the roof line to the right as shown.

10. Place slope indicators on the remaining roofs

8.

Click to select the roof line. 11. Click Modify. On the Annotate tab, Dimension panel, click Aligned.

Set the Place Dimensions option to Wall faces. 9. Click to locate the slope indicator. Use the flip arrows if you have put it on the wrong side of the roof line. Drag the left side to the right so both slope indicators are clearly readable.

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12. To create a continuous dimension as shown, select wall breaks and levels. Click to the left of the building to place the dimension.

13. The west elevation now contains material notes, slope indicators, and vertical dimensions.

It is important that notes in sections and elevations do not cover the graphics. Arrange notes, leaders, and dimensions for clarity. 14. Save as Unit8_elevation_complete.rvt. In this exercise, you created slope indicators and added vertical dimensions.

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Exercise: Create an Interior Elevation


Interior elevations show surface materials, dimensions, or special features that may not show clearly in plans. Most interior elevations are for bathrooms, kitchens, special closets, equipment rooms, and cabinetry. In this exercise, you create an interior elevation of a bathroom.

3.

A dialog box displays listing the Floor Plan: 2nd Floor as the referring view.

The completed exercise

Create an Interior Elevation


1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit8_elevation_complete.rvt. In the Project Browser, locate the Elevations > Interior Bathroom Elevation view. This view was already defined in the drawing. Right-click. Click Find Referring Views. Highlight the view. Click Open View.

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4.

An elevation marker is visible in one of the bathrooms. This is the elevation marker that defines the Interior Bathroom Elevation.

s s s s

Click Duplicate. In the Name box, click OK. Click Element Properties > Type Properties. Click the value field for Units Format

8.

Clear Use Project Settings. Set the Rounding to To the Nearest 1/4". Select Suppress 0 Feet.

Click OK two times to clear the dialog boxes.

5.

6.

The arrowhead of the elevation marker is active. You can see the crop region and boundaries of the elevation indicated by the green dashed line. Right-click. Click Go to Elevation View to open the Interior Elevation view.

7.

On the Annotate tab, Dimension panel, click Aligned.

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9.

Using the Text and Dimension tools, detail the interior section. Use 3/32" text with two segment leaders.

10. Save as Unit8_elevation_interior.rvt. In this exercise, you navigated between the elevation marker and the elevation view. You modified a dimension style, and added dimensions and text to the interior elevation.

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture unit, you learned to: s Create an elevation view. s Create a section view. s Navigate between elevation markers and elevation views. s Create filled regions. s Create material annotations. s Create slope annotations. s Place a section or elevation view on a sheet. s Modify the boundaries of a section or elevation.

General Questions
1. The main purpose of an exterior elevation is to: a. Indicate the location of doors and windows. b. Describe the exterior materials found on the structure. c. Show the relationships between elements. d. All of the above. 2. The orientation of the exterior elevation, such as north, is always the true orientation. a. True b. False 3. The title of an exterior elevation refers to: a. The direction the structure is facing. b. The direction the viewer is facing. c. Either one, it depends. 4. Interior elevations are usually used to detail: a. Bathrooms and kitchens b. Walls c. Cabinetry d. All of the above 5. The abbreviation NIC signifies: a. Not in Concrete b. Not in Contract c. Nobody in Charge d. Nothing Inside Cabinets

Summary/Questions

347

Revit Architecture Questions


1. Elevation Views are part of the default template in Revit Architecture. a. True b. False 2. The elevation marker shown is located to the left and outside of the floor plan of a structure. Which elevation is it?

a. East b. West c. South d. North 3. The dotted line indicates:

a. The detail level of the view. b. The Visual Style of the view. c. The boundaries of the view. d. The height of the view. 4. You should indicate roof slopes in exterior elevations. a. True b. False 5. To indicate finish materials on exterior elevations, you use: a. Sun and Shadow b. Element properties c. Filled regions with hatch patterns d. b and c, but not a 6. To add an elevation or section view to a sheet: a. On the View tab, click Sheet Composition > View. b. Drag and drop the view from the Project Browser. c. Highlight the sheet in the Project Browser. Right-click. Click Add View. d. All of the above

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 9 - Schedules
About This Unit
After completing this Autodesk Revit Architecture unit, you will be able to: s Create a schedule. s Load a schedule tag. s Reformat a schedule. s Export a schedule.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Review Schedules. (Discussion) Complete Exercise: Create a Window Schedule. (Student) Complete Exercise: Add Room Tags. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create a Room Schedule. (Student) Complete Exercise: Export a Schedule. (Student) Evaluate Students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About Schedules
About This Lesson
This lesson explains the different types of schedule tags and tables that are used on the construction documents of a building plan. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s

Describe the different types of schedule tables and why they are used. Explain why schedule tags are used in a set of construction documents.

The following image shows a floor plan with door tags that reference the doors listed on the door schedule.

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column format heading

instance label schedule tag

schedule table symbol

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

Schedule Tables
A schedule table is a list or table of information that defines specific building objects in your architectural plan. Some of these building objects include, but are not limited to: s Doors s Windows s Rooms s Structural members s Cabinets s Lights s Plumbing fixtures Schedule tables are used in a set of building plans to display information, such as reference number, width, height, and thickness, about the building objects in your architectural plan. The following image is an example of a schedule that displays information about the rooms in a residential building project.

About Schedules

351

Schedules help you keep accurate track of quantities and types of materials and individual components, so you can reduce waste and specify energy-efficient items.

Placement of Schedules
Whenever possible, the door and window schedules should be on the floor plan sheet with the door and windows being listed. However, some firms prefer to keep all of the schedules on a separate sheet. The schedules are used for ordering materials and keeping track of inventory.

Types of Schedules
Schedules are typically presented in tabulated form. While the tabulated schedules in offices may vary in layout, depending on the style of the architectural firm, the same primary information is included. There are different types of schedule tables, each listing information in a different way: Type (or Quantity), Instance, and Matrix (or Dot) schedules. s Type (or Quantity) schedules list the quantity of each object type used in the plan.

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Instance schedules list each instance or occurrence of an object in a building plan.

Matrix (or Dot) schedules have a column heading for each of any specified object property. A marker is displayed in the schedule table cell to indicate that the listed quantity or instance of the object has the property identified.

About Schedules

353

Schedule Tags
Schedule tags are used throughout a set of building plans to reference building objects to the data listed in schedules. Using the software, these tags can be placed automatically or manually. Like schedules, many users use custom tags with shapes and designators to label their doors and windows. The following image shows door, window, and room tags in the floor plan of a residential building project.

Use of Symbols in Schedules


Symbol designations for doors and windows can vary. A circle, hexagon, or square may be used as the bubble to label a door or window. However, the symbols for lighting and plumbing fixtures have been standardized by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Uniform Building Code (UBC). Students should become familiar with these basic symbols. Door and window bubbles should be different shapes to avoid confusion. To clarify the reading of the floor plan, the letter D at the top of a door symbol and the letter W at the top of the window symbol are often used. Other letters are P for plumbing, E for electrical, and A for appliances.

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Schedules
About This Lesson
After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Create a window schedule. s Add room tags. s Create a room schedule. s Export a schedule.

Schedules in Revit Architecture


Architectural schedules are used for collecting and reporting information about components in a building project. Schedules list items such as doors, windows, hardware, equipment, materials, rooms, drawing sheetsanything that can be put in a list. Schedule information in Autodesk Revit Architecture software is drawn from the properties and parameters of the building model objects themselves and displayed in tags that are attached to the building components. Project templates include preset schedules, and you can create your own schedules. Revit has several tag families preloaded into project templates with other tag families available as needed.

Key Terms
parameter properties schedule tag

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to science, technology, engineering, and math standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

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Exercise: Create a Window Schedule


In this exercise, you create a window schedule in an existing project using an existing window schedule family. You sort the schedule by two of the parameters, you change the schedule format to a Type schedule, and you set the schedule to display totals.

This area of the floor plan shows three types of tags:


s

Door Tag

The completed exercise

Create a Window Schedule


1. 2. Open ADA_Window_Schedules.rvt. The file opens to the view Floor Plan: flr 3. Zoom into the lower left of the building as shown.

Room Tag

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Window Tag

5.

Revit Architecture names the new schedule Window Schedule by default and makes it a building component schedule.

3.

On the View tab, click Create panel > Schedules > Schedule/Quantities.

6.

Accept the options and click OK to begin defining the schedule properties. You set up and change schedules in the Schedule Properties dialog box. The Fields tab organizes the fields of data into columns in the schedule. In Available Fields, select Comments. Click Add.

4.

In the Category list of the New Schedule dialog box, a list of all the component categories for creating schedules is displayed. Select Windows from the list. The field moves to the Scheduled Fields column on the right.

7.

Continue to add fields to the schedule. Add Count, Height, Level, Type Mark, and Width.

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8.

Select the fields. Use Move Up or Move Down to arrange them in the order you want them displayed in the schedule, from left to right.

9.

Click OK to finish the schedule. A view opens with the schedule you just defined.

Move the fields so they display in the order shown.

The Window Schedule is now listed under Schedules/Quantities in the Project Browser.

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Group and Sort Schedules


This schedule is a list of all the windows in the building. Revit reads and reports the window properties according to the parameters you selected, but without any useful calculations yet. 1. On the Properties palette for the schedule view, click Edit for Sorting and Grouping.

3.

Click OK to exit Schedule Properties. Note how the schedule is now sorted by Type Mark.

2.

The Schedule Properties dialog box opens to the Sorting/Grouping tab. From the Sort By list, select Type Mark. Select Blank Line.

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Change from Instance to Type Schedule


The schedule still lists each window instance separately. In order to calculate the total number of windows, you change the instance schedule to a type schedule. To see how many windows of each type appear on each floor (useful information for installers) you add another level of sorting. 1. On the Properties palette, for Sorting/ Grouping, click Edit.

3.

Click OK to exit Schedule Properties. Notice how the schedule has changed.

2.

On the Sorting/Grouping tab, in the Then By sorting field, select Level. In the lower left corner of the dialog box, clear Itemize Every Instance.

4.

The schedule still does not show totals by window type. Rather than make a manual calculation, you can have the schedule report this. In the Project Browser, click the schedule name. The Properties palette shows the properties for the selected view (the same as the view in the drawing window, in this case).

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5.

On the Properties palette, for Sorting/ Grouping, click Edit

7.

Save as Unit9_window_schedule.rvt.

6.

On the Sorting/Grouping tab, select Footer. From the list, select Title, Count, and Totals. This schedule now display totals for each Type Mark.

In this exercise, you: s Created a schedule using an existing schedule family. s Sorted the schedule by two of the parameters. s Changed the schedule from an Instance to Type schedule. s Set the schedule to display category totals.

Click OK twice to finish this round of schedule edits. The totals for each window type now display.

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Exercise: Add Room Tags


The room tags in Revit Architecture enable you to define and collect information about rooms and spaces that is useful in many ways. Room size, occupancy, floor type, ceiling type, and wall finishes are all examples of room information that can be collected on schedules. One of a facility manager's duties is to manage the space in an office building. A facility manager determines the best use of rooms, based on the amount of space in each room. In this exercise, you place room tags in an office building model to determine the amount of square footage in each room. 2. Click Insert tab > Load from Library panel > Load Family.

3.

Locate the file named Room Tag.rfa in the Imperial/Annotations folder.

4.

Click Open. If a dialog box displays asking to overwrite an existing definition, click Overwrite the Existing Version. You have loaded in a newer family file than the one loaded into the sample project.

The completed exercise

Add Room Tags


1. Activate view Floor Plan: Level 1. Door tags and some window tags have already been placed in this plan. Open ADA_Room_Tags.rvt.

5.

On the Home tab, Room & Area panel, click Room > Room.

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In the Type Selector, select Room Tag: Room Tag With Area.

7.

Zoom in to see that the room tags have automatically calculated the area of each room.

6.

The tag displays at the end of your cursor.

8.

The big open hallway includes two different types of spaces that should display separately on the room schedule. On the Home tab, Room & Area panel, click Room > Room Separation Line.

Place a room tag in each room in the floor plan, and in the hall as shown, a total of 7. Click Modify to terminate the placement.

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9.

The cursor changes to sketch mode. Draw a line across the hallway as shown below.

12. Click Modify. Click Room Tag 1 so it highlights. s Click the Room text. An edit box activates. s Change the word Room to Manager.

Click away from the tag to exit the edit box.

10. The area value for Room 7 updates.

The room tag updates. 13. Select Room #2. Hold the cursor so the diagonal lines indicating the room object highlight.

11. On the Room & Area panel, click Room. Place a room tag below the room separation line.

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14. On the Properties palette, for Name, enter Sales. This is an alternate way to edit room tag information.

15. Change the names for the rest of the rooms as follows: s Room 3: Accounting s Room 4: Repairs s Room 5: Storage s Room 6: Conference s Room 7: Hallway s Room 8: Showroom

16. Save the file as Unit9_rooms.rvt. In this exercise, you: s Loaded a room tag. s Tagged various objects. s Added a room separation. s Changed room tag field values.

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Exercise: Create a Room Schedule


In this exercise, you create a room schedule based on the room tags you added and modified in a building model. 4. For Name, enter Square Footage Report.

The completed exercise

5.

Create a Room Schedule


1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit9_rooms.rvt. On the View tab, Create panel, click Schedules > Schedule/Quantities.

Click OK. The Schedule Properties dialog box opens to the Fields tab. In the Available Fields pane, select Number, Name, and Area to be included in your schedule. Click Add--> after each selection. The field names move to the Scheduled Fields pane in order. Move fields up or down as needed to reach the arrangement shown.

6. 3. The New Schedule dialog box displays. Select the Rooms schedule from the Category list.

Click the Sorting/Grouping tab. Set the Sort By value to Number.

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7.

Select Grand Totals. Select Title and Totals from the list. This is located at the bottom of the dialog box.

9.

Highlight the Area field. s Select Calculate Totals. s Set Alignment to Right.

Click Field Format.

8.

Click the Formatting tab. Highlight the Number field. Change the Heading to No.

10. In the Format dialog box, clear Use Project Settings. s Set Units to Square Feet. s Set Rounding to 0 decimal places. s Set Unit Symbol to SF.

Click OK.

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11. Click OK to exit the dialog box. Revit Architecture opens the schedule view. You can use your cursor to adjust the column widths.

12. Save as Unit9_room_schedule.rvt. In this exercise, you: s Created a room schedule. s Reformatted the schedule title and column display. s Totaled one of the columns.

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Exercise: Export a Schedule


In this exercise, you export the room schedule to a text file. You can then use this file in other applications. 4. Accept (tab) as the Field Delimiter and " as the Text Qualifier. This affects how other applications read the contents of the text file you are about to create.

The completed exercise

Export a Schedule
1. 2. Open or continue working in Unit9_room_schedule.rvt. Verify that the active view is schedule Square Footage Report. On the application menu, click > Export > Reports > Schedule. 5.

Click OK. The file is created. Using your Windows Explorer, locate the file you created. Double-click it to open it. Verify that the data exported properly to a TXT file. Note the formatting that has been applied.

6.

3.

Browse to a directory to save your report. You can save the data in a delimited text (*.txt) file. This format is read by nearly all data processing applications. Delimited means that each field in the schedule is identified as being a separate piece of information by inserting characters.

Click Save.

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7.

You can readily import the TXT file into a spreadsheet program. The following illustration is from Microsoft Excel.

8.

Close the text file. Do not save the changes to the Revit Architecture project file.

In this exercise, you exported your schedule data to a TXT file.

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture unit, you learned to: s Create a schedule. s Load a schedule tag. s Place a schedule tag. s Reformat a schedule. s Export a schedule.

Questions
1. What is a schedule table? a. A list of information that defines specific building objects. b. A timetable that keeps track of when certain building phases will occur. c. A list of sheets used in a project. d. None of the above. 2. Which of the following schedule types lists each occurrence of an object in a building plan? a. Type b. Quantity c. Matrix d. Instance 3. Schedule tags are used though a set of building plans to reference building objects to the data listed in schedules. a. True b. False 4. Door and window bubbles should be different shapes to avoid confusion. a. True b. False

Summary/Questions

371

Revit Architecture Questions


1. Schedules are created from the ____ tab. a. Annotate b. View c. Home d. Modify 2. To export a schedule, use the ____ . a. Annotate tab b. View tab c. Application menu d. Manage tab 3. Exported schedules are created in which of the following file formats? a. TXT b. XLS c. CSV d. all of the above

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 10 - Visualization
3D views of Autodesk Revit Architecture models can be turned into presentation images in a number of ways. The Rendering dialog box active in 3D views contains tools and commands for the internal rendering module. Revit Architecture will export object category and material information from a building model into DWG or FBX files that can be read by Autodesk 3ds Max Design software.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Review Visualization. (Discussion) Complete Exercise: Export a Building Model to 3ds Max Design. (Student) Complete Exercise: Render a Model in Revit Architecture. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create a Walkthrough in Revit Architecture. (Student) Evaluate Students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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Visualization
About This Lesson
In this lesson, you learn how to prepare a Revit model for export to an external rendering engine. You also render a view of a model using tools in Revit. Finally, you create a walkthrough, or camera on a path, and export images from the walkthrough to an external animation file. The animation file can be played in any media player. After completing this lesson, you will be able to: s Orient walls and windows. s Assign materials. s Export an FBX file. s Export a DWG file. s Apply shading to a view. s Place a camera. s Add planting components. s Create a raytrace rendering. s Orient walls and windows. s Create and edit a walkthrough. s Play a walkthrough. s Export a walkthrough.

Key Terms
AVI camera compression DWG keyframe material media player orientation path raytrace resolution walkthrough

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to technology and engineering standards.

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Exercise: Export a Building Model to 3ds Max Design Prepare the Model Revit Architecture software contains its own rendering module that creates still images and 1. Open Unit2_custom_family.rvt. You worked on animations. You create a rendering and a walkthrough this file in Unit 2. A copy is also available in the in the next exercises. courseware datasets.
Many firms export 3D models for rendering and/or animation in separate programs such as Autodesk 3ds Max Design. It is important to note that 3ds Max Design cannot directly import or link to native Revit Architecture (RVT) files. Revit Architecture can export models into FBX format, and these files can be imported into 3ds Max Design. The FBX file will contain 3ds Max Design scene objects that correspond directly to individual Revit objects. Most Revit materials are translated into 3ds Max Design materials and assigned to the 3ds Max Design scene objects. You can also export a Revit model to DWG format, which can then be linked into 3ds Max Design. A linked file can be reloaded into 3ds Max Design to capture changes in the original. You can make changes to your Revit Architecture model and see those changes in 3ds Max Design.

To prepare your model for rendering, you need to: Check orientation of walls and windows. Assign materials. s Make a camera view the active view. You will follow these steps as a general rule whether you render the model in Revit Architecture or prepare the project for export. Open Floor Plan View Level 1. Click Zoom to Fit.
s s

2.

The completed exercise

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3.

Select one of the exterior walls. Right-click. Click Select All Instances > In Entire Project.

4.

All the exterior walls highlight in blue. Use the Type Selector to change the wall type from Generic to Basic Wall: Exterior: Brick on Mtl. Stud.

6.

Select any exterior wall. Note the position of the blue double-headed alignment arrows.

5.

The walls now display layers of materials. You changed the display Detail Level for this view in a previous exercise. If you do not see any change in the wall display, verify that the Detail Level control on the View Control Bar at the bottom of the screen is set to Medium.

For walls that show the arrows displayed on the inside, click the arrows to switch them to the exterior side. The wall display updates.

The walls will probably not all be aligned with the exterior side to the outside.

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7.

Carefully check all the exterior walls and orient them correctly. In addition to using the control arrows, you can:
s s s

9.

Open the Default 3D view. Select the toposurface object.

Select walls. Right-click. Click Change wall's orientation.

8.

Repeat the process for the windows. Check and adjust the alignment as necessary.

10. On the Properties palette, select the icon at the right of the Materials field. Select Site: Grass. Click OK.

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11. Select the Roof. Use the Type Selector to change it to Basic Roof: Wood Rafter 8": Asphalt Shingle: Insulated.

The remaining steps presume that you have 3ds Max Design installed. Depending on your system resources, you may want to close Revit before opening 3ds Max Design. If you do not have access to 3ds Max Design, you have completed this exercise. Open 3ds Max Design. On the application menu, click Import > Import. In the Select File to Import dialog box, for Files of type, select Autodesk (*.FBX). This will filter the file list.

2.

12. Save the file as Unit10_Export.rvt.

Export the Model to FBX


1. On the application menu, click Export > FBX.

3.

Navigate to the folder where you saved your FBX export. Select the file name, and click Open. Click OK in any notices and warnings. The file opens in 3ds Max Design.

Accept the default name that Revit assigns. Note the file location.

Since you may save many export views of a single project model for import into 3ds Max Design, Revit assigns a unique name to each output file using the current view.

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4.

This imported file does not maintain a path to the original file. There is no way to update it from Revit. Close the file without saving. Close 3ds Max Design if necessary to open Revit Architecture.

3.

In the Export CAD Formats dialog box, click Next.

Export the Model to DWG


1. 2. Open or return to Revit. If necessary, open Unit10_Export.rvt. On the application menu, click Export > CAD Formats > DWG.

Accept the default name that Revit assigns. Note the file location.

The remaining steps presume that you have 3ds Max Design installed. Depending on your system resources, you may want to close Revit before opening 3ds Max Design. If you do not have access to 3ds Max Design, you have completed this exercise.

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4.

Open 3ds Max Design. On the application menu, click References > File Link Manager. In the File Link Manager , click File.

6.

On the Attach tab of the File Link Manager, click Attach This File.

7. 5. Navigate to the folder where you saved your DWG export. Select the file name. Click Open.

The file opens in 3ds Max Design. Close the File Link Manager.

8. 9.

Save the 3ds Max Design file as Unit10_link.max. Close 3ds Max Design if necessary to open Revit Architecture. Open or return to Revit. If necessary, open Unit10_Export.rvt. Open Floor Plan view Level 1. Select two windows as shown.

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10. Use the Type Selector to change the windows to Fixed: 36" x 72".

11. Open the 3D view. The windows have updated. Save the file.

12. On the application menu, click Export > CAD Formats > DWG as before. 13. Save the export file using the same name as before. In the dialog box, click Yes to confirm that you want to overwrite the existing file.

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14. Open or return to 3ds Max Design. Open the File Link Manager. Open the Files tab. s The dialog box displays an indication that the linked file has changed. s Click Reload. s Click OK in the dialog box that displays. s Close the File Link Manager.

The linked file updates. The windows have changed.

15. Save and close the 3ds Max Design file. In this exercise, you: s Changed the type of all exterior walls in a project. s Oriented walls and windows. s Changed a material definition. s Exported a DWG file from Revit Architecture. s Linked the DWG file into 3ds Max Design. s Changed the Type definition for two window instances in Revit Architecture and re-exported the DWG file. s Reloaded the linked file in 3ds Max Design and observed the change.

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Exercise: Render a Model in Revit Architecture


Revit Architecture contains a complete rendering module. The View tab and Render dialog box hold tools to create presentation views of a project model. In this exercise, you place a camera in a model, add plantings to the model, generate a rendering, change materials, and create a second rendering. 3. On the View tab, Create panel, click Camera.

The completed exercise

Click to place the camera to the lower left of the view. Pull the cursor up and to the right to locate the target behind the model, as shown. If you place the camera too close to the model, you can adjust both the scope of the view and the position of the camera.

Place a Camera
1. Open Unit10_Export.rvt. You worked on this file in the previous exercise.

2.

Open the Site view.

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4.

The camera perspective view opens, and a new 3D view named 3D View 1 displays in the Project Browser.

s s

s s

Open a floor plan view. Select the name of the perspective view you wish to adjust. Right-click. Click Show Camera.

7. 5. Open the Site view again. The camera will be visible. If necessary, select the camera and drag it farther away from the model.

Return to the perspective view. Adjust the sides of the crop region border by selecting the blue control dots and dragging them closer to the model as shown.

Render Setup
1. On the View Control Bar, click Show Rendering Dialog. Move the dialog box so you can see the view window clearly.

2. 6. To adjust the camera position at any time:

In the Background Style list, select Very Few Clouds.

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3.

Accept the default settings for Quality, Output Settings, and Lighting. Click Render. Revit generates a raytrace image in the view.

Enhance the Model


1. Open the Site view. On the Massing & Site tab, Model Site panel, click Site Component.

2.

Place four instances of RPC Tree: Deciduous: Schumard Oak - 30' approximately as shown.

3.

Open view 3D View 1. s Click Render to create a new rendered image. s Adjust the positions of the trees (in the Site view) as necessary. s Set the Quality Setting to Medium. s Click Render.

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4.

In the Rendering dialog box, click Save to Project.

Change Materials
1. Select the roof. On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.

5.

In the Save to Project dialog box, click OK. Revit places the image in its own view. In the Rendering dialog box, click Show the Model.

2.

Click Edit in the Structure field.

3.

In the Layer 1 Material field, click the icon next to Roofing-Asphalt Shingle.

The model displays in the view, and you can now select elements for editing. 4.

In the Materials list, select Roofing - Wood Shake.

5. 6.

Click OK three times to exit the dialog box. Select an exterior wall. On the Properties palette, click Edit Type.

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10. Click Replace.

7.

Click Edit in the Structure field.

8.

Select the icon next to Masonry - Brick in the Layer 1 Material field.

9.

Click the Render Appearance tab.

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11. Select Masonry - Brick Uniform Running Brown.

15. Click OK. The new image is placed in its own view.

These images are now available as options to present to a client. You have previously worked on exporting images and printing. 16. Save the file as Unit10_render.rvt. In this exercise, you: s Placed a camera in a plan view. s Created a raytrace setup. s Placed site planting components in the model. s Generated and captured a render image. s Edited materials in model components. s Generated and captured a second render image.

12. Click OK four times to exit the dialog box. 13. In the Rendering dialog box, click Render.

14. In the Rendering dialog box, click Save to Project.

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Exercise Create a Walkthrough in Revit Architecture


Revit Architecture can create animated camera views, or walkthroughs, in a project model. A walkthrough places a camera on a path. The camera and path can be edited. Each view, or frame, along the path can be viewed in different modes, rendered, and exported individually. The walkthrough is exported to an external animation file that can be viewed in any media player. In this exercise, you: s Create a walkthrough in a model. s Edit the camera and path. s Export the walkthrough to an animation file. s View the animation in a media player. 2. Open floor plan view Level 1. s Right-click. Click Zoom to Fit. s Right-click again. Click Zoom Out (2x). s On the View tab, Create panel, click 3d View > Walkthrough.

3.

The cursor changes to a crosshair. The status bar reads Click to Place Walkthrough Key Frame. The Options Bar displays walkthrough options.

4.

To place a key frame, click to the left of the model as shown.

The completed exercise

Create a Walkthrough
1. Open Unit10_render.rvt.

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5.

Place a total of six key frames around the building approximately as shown.

9.

Select the direction control for the camera. Drag it to the left, so that the camera is pointing at the model.

6.

On the Modify | Walkthrough tab, Walkthrough panel, click Finish Walkthrough.

10. Click the Previous Key Frame control to shift the control point. Adjust the previous key frame so the camera points at the building. 7. On the Modify | Cameras tab, Walkthrough panel, click Edit Walkthrough.

11. Repeat for all the key frames.

8.

The Options Bar changes. Verify that Controls is set to Active Camera. The camera is located on the final key frame.

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12. Click Open Walkthrough to open the camera view at the selected Key Frame position.

Edit the Walkthrough


1. 2. Open Floor Plan view Level 1. Click Edit Walkthrough. From the Controls list, select Path. The path displays control dots at key frames.

Drag the path away from the model as shown.

13. On the Walkthrough panel, click Next Key Frame.

3.

If camera positions distort, change the edit choice from Path to Active camera and adjust camera directions as before. Click Open. Check the view in several key frames.

The camera is too close to the model to show it well.

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Play the Walkthrough


1. Make Key Frame 1 the open frame. Click Play.

2.

In the Length/Format dialog box, click OK.

2.

The walkthrough plays in the view window. Save the file as Unit10_Walkthrough.rvt.

Export the Walkthrough


1. On the application menu, click Export > Images and Animations > Walkthrough.

3.

In the Export Walkthrough dialog box, File Name, notice where you save the file. Click Save.

4.

In the Video Compression dialog box, select a video compression method to hold down file size. Click OK.

Revit generates the external AVI file. This may take a long time depending on your system resources.

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5.

Navigate to the folder in which you saved the AVI file. Double-click the new file name. It plays in your media player.

6.

You can also generate AVI files from this walkthrough using other visual styles, such as shaded or rendering.

Use a different name for each animation file you generate so you can view each in your media player.

Generating a rendered AVI file takes a long time. Plan your class time accordingly.

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7.

If you have made changes to the building model, save the Revit Architecture file.

In this exercise, you: s Created a walkthrough by placing a path. s Adjusted camera positions at key frames along the path. s Edited the path. s Played the walkthrough in Revit Architecture. s Exported the walkthrough to an external file. s Played the animation file in a media player.

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture unit, you learned to: s Orient walls and windows. s Assign materials. s Export an FBX file. s Export a DWG file. s Apply shading to a view. s Place a camera. s Add planting components. s Create a raytrace rendering. s Orient walls and windows. s Create and edit a walkthrough. s Play a walkthrough. s Export a walkthrough.

Questions
1. A Revit file can be imported directly into 3ds Max Design software. a. True b. False 2. Materials that are assigned to objects in Revit have to be reassigned when you import the drawing into 3ds Max Design. a. True b. False

Revit Architecture Questions


1. To change a wall so the exterior surface is on the outside, you use: a. Split b. Align c. Flip Orientation d. Demolish 2. To create a file format from a Revit Architecture model that 3ds Max Design can import, you use: a. Print to File b. Save As > FBX c. View > Shading d. Export > FBX 3. You can play a walkthrough in Revit Architecture. a. True b. False

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Autodesk Design Academy

Unit 11 - Structural
About This Unit
The Structure panel on the Home tab contains tools and commands for placing and modifying structural components. The Datum panel enables you to place grids. In the following exercises, you learn how to place structural columns, foundations, beams, beam systems, and braces. You create column grids and use them to place structural columns and beams.

Lesson Plan
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Review structural columns, beams and braces. (Discussion) Complete Exercise: Place Structural Columns and Beams. (Student) Complete Exercise: Place Beam Systems and Braces. (Student) Complete Exercise: Create Column Grids. (Student) Complete Exercise: Place Columns and Beams on Grids. (Student) Evaluate Students. (Evaluation)

Introduction

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About Structural Members


Structural members are used to show where columns, beams, and other structural elements will be located in a building. Understanding building structure can help you reduce materials and energy usage. For example, posts and beams use fewer resources than walls, and can also make open internal spaces that are easier to heat and cool.

Columns
The following image shows steel columns used to hold up the beams for a deck and awning.

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Braces
The following image shows braces being used to hold up the walls of a garage during the framing process of building a house. Beams across the top of the garage are also shown.

Beams
The following illustration displays the drawing details of a plywood web wood joist.

About Structural Members

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This joist can be added to a drawing to show where it should be used to construct the floor of a building as shown.

Column Grids
Column grids are often used by architects and designers to plan a building design. Knowing where structural members, especially columns, are placed will affect the placement of walls and the design of building spaces. The following illustrations show a column grid used to place columns, walls, and other building objects.

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Structural
This lesson describes the different types of structural members and why they are used. This lesson also describes the purposes for using column grids when you design a building. After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
s s s s

Place structural columns and beams. Place beam systems and braces. Create column grids. Place columns and beams on grids.

Key Terms
beam beam system brace column footing foundation girder grid bubble grid line joist purlin rafter

Standards
Autodesk Design Academy curriculum meets content standards for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), and Language Arts. To review the list of standards for each lesson, view the National Academic Standards Cross Reference PDF document.

This lesson relates to technology and engineering standards.

Sustainable design or "green" concepts are presented throughout this lesson.

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Exercise: Place Structural Columns and Beams Place Columns Many building types use columns and beams rather than walls to hold up the structure of the building. 1. Open Deck Framing.rvt from the courseware This can save weight and expense and provide wider datasets. spans without walls. In residential construction, this is known as post and beam construction.
Modern multistory buildings often use steel and concrete columns and steel beams to support floors, and the exterior walls of the building are light in weight, often mainly glass. The Structure tab in Revit Architecture contains tools for placing structural members. Structural columns are different elements from architectural columns. Structural columns can be steel, wood, or concrete. They come in types defined by size and shape. Beams connect columns or walls. They provide support for floors and prevent movement of the columns. As with columns, beams can be steel, wood, or reinforced concrete. Concrete beams are often integrated into concrete floors. In this exercise, you: s Place columns of different heights under a floor. s Place beams around the perimeter of the floor. The file opens to a cropped plan view of an exterior wood deck. You create columns and beams to start a framing plan for the deck. The view has grid lines added to make column placement easier. Well-designed framing plans often include dimensioned grid lines to eliminate mistakes in construction. You place grid lines in an upcoming exercise. The lines in the deck surface pattern make locating the columns accurately a little difficult. Select a floor. On the View Control Bar, click Temporary Hide/Isolate - Hide Category.

2.

3.

On the Build panel of the Home tab, click Column > Structural Column.

The completed exercise

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4.

In the Type Selector, select Dimension Lumber Column: 4x4.

6.

Repeat at grid intersections 2A, 3A, and 4B.

On the Options Bar, click Depth. 7. On the View Control Bar, click Temporary Hide/ Isolate > Reset Temporary Hide/Isolate. Click Modify to terminate the Column tool. Click the edge of the left floor to select it. The Properties palette displays the floor properties. The floor is 1" thick and set down from the Floor 1 level by 1".

5.

This sends the column down from the current level rather than up. Click the intersection of Grid 1 and Grid A.

8.

Click the edge of the right floor to select it. This floor is 1" thick and set down from the Floor 1 level by 8".

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9.

In the Project Browser, double-click view Framing Cutaway. Zoom in so you can see the deck, rail, and columns clearly. Hold CTRL and select the two posts under the upper floor (on the right side of this view).

10. Use the Properties palette to set the Top Offset for the columns to -0'-2". Click OK.

11. Click off the columns to clear your selection set. Hold CTRL and select the other two columns. Set their Top Offset to -0'-9". Click OK.

Place Beams
1. 2. Open Plan View Deck Framing. The columns are now hidden by the floors. Hold CTRL and select the two floors. Right-click. Click Hide In View > Element.

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3.

On the Structure tab, Structure panel, click Beam.

In the view window, click the intersection of Grid 1 and the wall.

4.

In the Type Selector, select Dimension Lumber: 2 x 10. On the Options Bar, select Chain.

Pull the cursor up along Grid 1 to the intersection of Grid A. Click.

5.

To place beams:

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Pull the cursor right along Grid A to Grid 2. Click.

Pull the cursor down along Grid 2 to the wall face. Click.

6. 7.

Click Modify. Hold CTRL and select the new beams. On the Properties palette, set Start Level Offset and End Level Offset to -0'-2" to lower the beams as you lowered the column tops.

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8.

To place other beams: s On the Structure tab, Structure panel, click Beam. s Place a beam from A2 to A3.

Pull the cursor down Grid 4 to the wall. Click.

9.

Click Modify. Hold CTRL and select the new beams. On the Properties palette, set Start Level Offset and set End Level Offset to -0'-9"-0'-9" 10. Click OK. If a Warning dialog box that opens, click Make Wall Bearing.
s

Enter SI to force a Snap Intersection. Click on grid intersection B4, as shown.

11. Open view Framing Cutaway to verify that the beams are below the deck. 12. Save the file as Deck Beams.rvt. In this exercise, you: s Placed columns of different heights under floors. s Placed beams of different elevations around the perimeter of the floors.

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Exercise: Place Beam Systems and Braces


You can place beams in defined systems that fill areas between girders. These areas are known as bays in a structural framing plan. A beam system is an array of beams governed by layout rules that specify the spacing, distance, or number of beams in a bay. This system saves time when preparing framing plans. Vertical bracing prevents sideways movement of structural frames. You place vertical bracing in elevation views. In this exercise, you: s Place beam systems. s Place braces.

Place Beam Systems


1. Open Deck Beams.rvt. You worked on this file in the previous exercise. A copy is also available in the courseware datasets.

2. 3.

Open Plan View Deck Framing. On the Structure tab, Structure panel, click Beam System. If a dialog box opens about loading Beam Systems tags, click No. In the Beam System panel of the Modify | Place Structural Beam System context tab, click Sketch Beam System.

4.

On the Draw panel of the Modify | Create Beam System Boundary context tab that activates, click Pick Supports.

The completed exercise

5.

Click the beam on Grid 1. A sketch line with parallel lines on each side appears. This is the direction indicator for the beam system.

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6.

Click the left beam on Grid A and the beam on Grid 2, as shown.

7.

On the Draw panel, click Line. Draw a line on the face of the wall. Use Trim if necessary to finish the sketch correctly.

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8.

On the Properties palette, set the following parameters: s Set Elevation to -0' - 2". s Set Layout Rule to Maximum Spacing. s Set Maximum Spacing to 1' - 6".

s s s

On the Draw panel, click Pick Supports. Click the beam on Grid 2. Click the other beams in order clockwise to the right.

9.

On the Mode panel, click Finish (green check). To place a beam system in the lower floor: s On the Create panel of the Modify | Structural Beam Systems tab, click Create Similar.

On the Draw panel, click Line. Carefully trace the wall faces to finish the sketch. Trim as necessary.

10. On the Properties palette, set Elevation to -0'-9". Click Finish. Click Make Wall Bearing if the warning opens. 11. Open view Framing Cutaway to verify that the beam systems are under the floor.

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Place Braces
1. Open Plan View Deck Framing. On the View tab, Create panel, click Elevation > Framing Elevation.

2.

A framing elevation ignores walls and snaps to grids. It has an automatic work plane, unlike regular elevations. Place the cursor over Grid A so the elevation marker displays above the grid line between Grids 2 and 3, as shown.

4.

On the View Control Bar, set the Detail Level of the view to Medium.

5.

On the Structure tab, Structure panel, click Brace.

3.

Click to place the elevation. In the Project Browser, double-click Interior Elevation view 1-a. Adjust the view crop region as shown.

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6.

In the Type Selector, select Dimension Lumber: 2 x 4.

8.

Click the bottom of the column on Grid 2 to finish the brace.

7.

In the view window, to start the brace, click the intersection of Grid 3 and the bottom edge of the beam.

9.

Repeat the brace going right to left. Click Modify.

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10. Open view Framing Cutaway to verify the brace location.

11. Save the file as Deck structure.rvt. In this exercise, you: s Placed beam systems. s Placed braces.

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Exercise: Create Column Grids Create a Rectangular Column Grid Grids form the basic framework for structure in a building model. Grid lines are usually horizontal and 1. Open ADA_Grids from the courseware vertical, but they can also be angular and radial. Grid datasets. lines are displayed on plans and elevations specifically for locating columns, beams, and walls.
Grids are finite vertical planes represented as lines in plan, elevation, and section views. Grid lines appear in all views where they cross the plane of the view. Only straight grid lines are visible in elevation and section views. In plan views, you can add grid lines as straight lines or arcs. You will create a complex column grid so that you can place columns and beams to make a structural model. This is a common step early in designing a large building. In this exercise, you: s Place grid lines to create a rectangular column grid. s Place grid lines to create a semi-circular column grid. 2. To place a grid line: s On the Home tab, Datum panel, click Grid.

In the view window, click in the lower left to start a grid line. The exact location is not critical. Pull the cursor straight up, as shown. The exact length is not critical.

The completed exercise

Click to place the end of the grid line. A line shows a grid bubble with a number in it. The numbering automatically increments. You can change a grid number at any time.
s

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3.

The Grid tool is still active. Put the cursor over the start of the grid line and pull to the right until the temporary dimension reads 30' -0". The alignment line will show when the cursor is even with the grid line start point. Click to start another grid line.

4.

Pull the cursor straight up until the alignment snap shows that it is even with the head of the first grid line. Click to place a new grid line.

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5.

To make copies of the new grid line: s On the Modify panel of the context tab, click Copy. s Select Grid Line 2.

6.

You need crossing grid lines to make a column grid. To create a horizontal grid line: s On the Create panel, click Create Similar to start the Grid tool.

s s s

Place the cursor to the right of grid line 4, close to the heads. Click to start a grid line. Pull the cursor to the left. When the cursor is to the left of grid line 1, click to place the grid line.

Press SPACEBAR to terminate selection.

s s s

Click anywhere to establish a start point. Pull the cursor to the right. Enter 30 at the keyboard to set the copy distance to 30'-0". Press ENTER. The new grid line will be number 3. Repeat to create grid line 4. You will not need to select or use SPACEBAR. Grid 3 is already the selection set.

7.

The new grid line is number 5. Zoom in so you can clearly see the grid bubble. Click inside the grid bubble to activate the name field. Enter A at the keyboard.

Press ENTER.

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8.

The Grid tool is still active. Place another grid 20'-0" below the first one. This grid line will be number B.

10. Click Modify to terminate the Copy tool. Click in the bubble for the new grid line. Change the number to 2.1. Click outside the bubble to enter the number.

9.

Place two more horizontal grid lines below grid B at 20'-0" intervals. This completes the main grid. To place a secondary grid line: s Click Modify to terminate grid placement. s Select grid 2. s Click Copy. s Click anywhere and pull the cursor 3'-0" to the right.

11. The grid bubbles overlap and are hard to read. Grid 2.1 is still selected. On the grid line, click the elbow control to place an offset.

Click to place the grid line.

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Create a Radial Column Grid


1. Zoom to Fit. On the Home tab, Create panel, click Grid. To place a radial grid line:
s s s

2.

Pull the cursor to the right until the alignment line appears. Click to place the grid head.

On the Draw panel, select Center-Ends Arc. On the Options Bar, click Radius. In the Radius field, enter 15. Revit will convert this to 15'-0".

3.

Click in the new grid bubble. Change the number to EE. Press ENTER.

s s

Click grid intersection D3. Pull the cursor down and to the left so the temporary arc dimension reads 135.000 o .

4.

The Grid tool is still active. On the Draw panel, click Pick. On the Options Bar, set Offset to 15'-0".

Click to start the grid line.

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5.

Place the cursor over grid EE so that the placement line displays below the grid line.

6.

Click to place grid FF. Click Modify to terminate the Grid tool. Select grid 3 to show its controls. The padlock symbol at the lower end indicates that the grid line is locked so that the end moves with the others. This makes it easy to stretch grid lines together. Click the padlock to unlock the grid line.

7.

Click the control grip at the end of the grid line. Drag it down below the radial grids. Grid 3 will be part of the new radial grid. You will need to identify it easily. Select the Show Bubble control to activate the bubble at the lower end of grid 3.

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8.

To place a straight grid line at an angle: s In the Create panel, click Create Similar. s Click grid intersection D3. s Pull the cursor down and to the left so the temporary angle dimension reads 120.000.
s

10. To place the next angled grid line: s Click Modify to terminate grid placement. s Select grid 31. s On the Modify panel of the Modify | Grids tab, click Mirror - Pick Axis. s Verify that Copy is selected on the Options Bar. s Select grid 3.

Revit will create grid 32. 11. Zoom to Fit. Save the file as ADA_Gridscomplete.rvt. 9. Click to place the grid line. Click in the new grid bubble. Enter 31 to change the name. Press ENTER.
s

In this exercise, you: s Placed grid lines to create a rectangular column grid. s Placed grid lines to create a semi-circular column grid.

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Exercise: Place Columns and Beams on Grids in Revit Exercise: Architecture


Before adding structural columns in a large-scale structural plan, you typically create a grid. You then add columns relative to grid lines and grid intersections. Structural columns are anchored on the grid intersections at which they are added. As a result, the columns move with the grid intersections when the spacing between grid lines is modified. In this exercise, you: s Use a column grid to place columns. s Use a column grid to place beams. s Add footings to columns. s Change a grid layout.
s

3.

To place structural columns: s On the Structure tab, Structure panel, click Column > Structural Column.

In the Type Selector, select W-Wide-Flange Column: W10x33. This is a steel column.

The completed exercise

Use a Column Grid to Place Columns


1. Open ADA_Grids-complete. You worked on this file in the previous exercise.

2.

You have started a structural framing plan for a large building by creating column grids. Now you place columns at grid intersections.

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s s

On the Options Bar, set Height to Level 3. In the Multiple panel, click At Grids.

5.

If you zoom in you will see columns ghosted in at grid intersections.

4.

Hold down CTRL and select Grids 1, 2, 3, 4, A, B, C and D.

6.

On the Multiple panel, click Finish.

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Use a Column Grid to Place Beams


1. 2. Open Floor Plan Level 2. Zoom to Fit. On the Structure panel of the Structure tab, click Beam. On the Multiple panel, click On Grids.

3.

Window-select all the grid lines.

4.

On the Multiple panel, click Finish.

Revit will ghost in beams on grid lines only between existing columns and will ignore grid intersections without columns.

5.

Click Modify to terminate the Beam tool. Click Grid 1. Change the temporary dimension to 20'-0". The grid, columns, and beams will move to the right.

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Add Footings to Columns


The columns need footings under them. 1. On the Foundation panel of the Structure tab, click Isolated.

2.

If a dialog box opens about loading a tag family, click No. On the Multiple panel, click At Columns.

6.

Open the Default 3D view. On the Quick Access toolbar, click Undo. Columns and beams on and intersecting with Grid 1 will move 10'-0" to the left. Click Redo. Columns and beams will move to the right.

3.

In the view window, window-select all the columns. Rectangular footings display ghosted at the base of each one.

4. Column grids are an effective way to control the position of many elements at once.

On the Multiple panel, click Finish.

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5.

Click Modify to terminate the Foundation tool. To change the length of a column: s Select the leftmost column.

7.

Press ESC to clear the column selection. Select the footing at the base of the extended column.

On the Properties palette, set the Base Offset distance to 6'-0". To change the size of the footing, in the Type Selector, select Footing-Rectangular 96" x 72" x 18".

6.

A warning displays. The footing had been placed at Level 1, but footings attach to columns and move if the column base moves.

The footing changes size.

Click OK.

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8.

Save and close the file.

In this exercise, you: s Used a column grid to place columns. s Used a column grid to place beams. s Added footings to columns. s Changed a grid layout.

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STEM Connections

Background
In modern design practice, the structural engineer takes primary responsibility for specifying components, spans, and connections so that buildings remain upright despite environmental changes or earth movement. Structural integrity of buildings has always been the overriding concern for designers and builders.

Science
Concrete is an ancient material known to the Romans. s What types of materials are now being introduced to modern concrete mixes to make them stronger and lighter?

Technology
The invention of steel framing enabled the development of skyscrapers. What are the advantages and disadvantages of steel compared to wood when exposed to: s Fire or extreme heat s Moisture

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427

Engineering
Span tables list the sizes of beams that can safely carry loads across certain distances. s Which is a stronger arrangement: smaller beams placed closer together or larger beams placed farther apart? Why?

Math
Engineers carefully calculate loads on structural frames, using formulas based on physics. s What is bending moment and how is it calculated? s What is allowable deflection and how is it calculated?

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Summary/Questions
Summary
In this Revit Architecture unit, you learned to: s Place columns of different heights under a floor. s Place beams around the perimeter of the floor. s Place beam systems. s Place braces. s Place grid lines to create a rectangular column grid. s Place grid lines to create a semi-circular column grid. s Use a column grid to place columns. s Add footings to columns. s Change a grid layout.

Questions
1. Which of the following are examples of structural members? a. Column b. Brace c. Beam d. All of the above. 2. Column grids are used to help with placement of structural members in a building design? a. True b. False

Summary/Questions

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Revit Architecture Questions


1. To change the height of a column, you use: a. Stretch b. Properties c. Flip Orientation d. You cannot change a column's height after you place it. 2. To create a beam system, you: a. Sketch or select objects to create the perimeter sketch. b. Select a beam type and define the system layout. c. A and B. d. A but not B. 3. You can copy grid lines and they will number automatically. a. True b. False 4. When placing columns or beams, you can: a. Pick points. b. Use grid lines and grid intersections. c. Select the type of beam or column to place. d. All of the above. 5. If you relocate a grid line, columns and beams placed using that grid will relocate with it. a. True b. False

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Autodesk Design Academy

Credits-Copyright
Lead Author: Phil Dollan - Autodesk Manufacturing Independent Consultant Contributing Authors: Kristen C. Smith - Autodesk AEC Independent Consultant Lay Christopher Fox - Autodesk AEC Independent Consultant Dr. Randy Dymond, PE - Director, Center for Geospatial Information Technology Assoc. Prof of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech Eric Losin - Instructor, Mathematics, South Division High School, Milwaukee, WI Roger Dohm - Teacher, Poway High School, Poway, CA Ronald A Williams, Ltd. Susan Harrington - Editor Special Thanks To: Kendall N. Starkweather - Executive Director, International Technology Education Association www.iteaconnect.org Project Lead the Way, Inc.

Copyright

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2010 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved. Except as otherwise permitted by Autodesk, Inc., this publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form, by any method, for any purpose. Certain materials included in this publication are reprinted with the permission of the copyright holder. Trademarks Autodesk, AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Inventor Professional Suite, Autodesk Revit Architecture, Autodesk Revit MEP, Autodesk 3ds Max Design are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/ or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product and services offerings, and specifications and pricing at any time without notice, and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document. 2010 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved. Disclaimer THIS PUBLICATION AND THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS MADE AVAILABLE BY AUTODESK, INC. AS IS. AUTODESK, INC. DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE REGARDING THESE MATERIALS. Published by: Autodesk, Inc. 111 Mclnnis Parkway San Rafael, CA 94903, USA

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