Understanding Reference Planes in Revit
Reference planes play a crucial role in the creation of families within Revit. They assist users in defining locations for elements, aligning components, and establishing geometric relationships throughout the model. Unlike physical elements, reference planes are invisible in 3D views but are vital for maintaining an organized workflow.
Steps to Create a Reference Plane
Creating a reference plane in Revit requires following a systematic approach. Below is a step-by-step guide to efficiently add a reference plane to your project.
Step 1: Access the Reference Plane Tool
Begin by navigating to the Architecture or Structure tab located on the top ribbon. Look for the Work Plane panel and select the Reference Plane option. This initiates the reference plane drawing mode, enabling you to create a new plane in your project.
Step 2: Drawing the Reference Plane
After selecting the Reference Plane tool, your cursor will change to indicate that you can draw. To establish a reference plane, click at the point in your drawing area where you want one end of the plane to start. Move your cursor horizontally, vertically, or diagonally to define the desired direction of your reference plane. Click again to finalize the plane’s second endpoint. Revit will visually display the reference plane in your plan view.
Step 3: Naming the Reference Plane
To further streamline your project, it’s beneficial to name your reference plane. After creating it, select the plane and navigate to the Properties panel. Here, you can input a specific name that describes the plane’s purpose or location. This helps in identifying it later, especially in projects with multiple reference planes.
Step 4: Adjusting Visibility Settings
If necessary, you can modify the visibility settings to control how the reference plane appears in different views. Right-click the reference plane and choose Hide in View to remove it from your current view if it becomes cluttered. Alternatively, you can manage visibility settings through the Visibility/Graphics settings.
Step 5: Reassessing the Reference Plane
After creating the reference plane and naming it, it’s crucial to assess its position within your model. Use the Move tool, if needed, to adjust the reference plane’s location. Ensure that it aligns correctly with the intended geometry or elements it will guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I delete a reference plane once it’s created?
Yes, reference planes can be deleted just like any other element in Revit. Simply select the plane you wish to remove and press the delete key. However, be mindful that removing a reference plane may affect any geometry or elements that depend on its location.
2. How do I change the orientation of an existing reference plane?
To change the orientation, select the reference plane, then use the Rotate tool to adjust its angle. If you simply intend to shift it, the Move tool will allow you to reposition it in the model without altering its angle.
3. Are reference planes visible in 3D views?
Reference planes are typically not visible in 3D views. They serve as guides for your 2D drawings and geometry but do not appear in isometric or perspective views. If you need visual confirmation of their locations, spy on them in the relevant plan or section views.
