Understanding Revit Families
Revit families are essential components within the Revit software that enable users to create and manipulate various elements in architectural designs. These families can range from structural components like beams and columns to furniture and fixtures needed for detailed modeling.
Steps to Install Families in Revit
Step 1: Launch Revit
Begin by opening the Revit application on your computer. Make sure you have the necessary permissions to modify settings if you are using a workstation managed by an organization.
Step 2: Access Options
Navigate to the File tab located in the upper left corner of the Revit interface. Click on it to reveal a dropdown menu, and select “Options” to open the settings configuration.
Step 3: Establish File Locations
Within the Options dialog, find and click on the “File Locations” tab. This section allows you to manage the paths where Revit will look for family templates and libraries.
Step 4: Set Default Template Path
In the File Locations menu, locate the option labeled “Default path for family template files.” Here, enter the path where your family templates are stored. A typical path might resemble:
C:\ProgramData\Autodesk\<product>\<version>\Family Templates\<language>. Ensure the path reflects your Revit version and location.
Step 5: Add Libraries
To enrich your project with additional families, you may need to download or install library files. To do this, follow these steps:
- Obtain family files from trusted resources. This can include Autodesk libraries or external websites offering free downloadable Revit families.
- Once downloaded, navigate to the Control Panel on your PC.
- Select “Programs and Features,” find the Autodesk Revit Content Libraries version you want to update, and choose “Uninstall/Change.”
- The installation wizard will then open; opt for “Add/Remove Features.”
- In the dialog that appears, select the libraries you wish to add and proceed by clicking “Next.”
Step 6: Load Families into Your Project
To utilize the families you have installed or downloaded, perform the following:
- Open an existing project or create a new one in Revit.
- Go to the “Insert” tab on the ribbon menu and select “Load Family.”
- Browse to the location where you saved the family files. Select the desired families and click “Open.” They will then be available for use within your project.
Common issues and solutions when installing families
Empty Family Library
If your Revit library appears empty, verify the path you entered in the File Locations settings. It may point to a different location than where the families are stored. Additionally, confirm that you have installed the content libraries associated with your Revit version.
Family Loading Errors
If you receive an error when trying to load a family, this may be due to a mismatch between the selected family category and the family type. Make sure that the family you are trying to load matches the current context in which you are working, such as loading a door family under the Architecture > Door category.
Finding Specific Families
To locate a specific family within your project, open the Project Browser and use the search function or expand the categories to find the family type you require. This makes it easy to navigate through numerous family types effectively.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between a Revit family and a Revit template?
A Revit family refers to a specific component or object type within a project, such as a door or window, each saved in an RFA file format. A Revit template, on the other hand, is a starting point for new projects that includes predefined settings, views, and families.
2. Can I copy families from one Revit project to another?
Yes, you can transfer families between projects by saving them from one project and then loading them into another. Use the Project Browser to right-click on the Family section and select “Save.”
3. Are there sources where I can download Revit families for free?
Yes, there are various websites that offer free Revit families, including BIMsmith Market, RevitCity, and BIM Object, among others. These platforms provide a wide range of families that are easy to integrate into your projects.
