Updating imported CAD files in Revit is an essential process for ensuring that your architectural models accurately reflect the latest information from your CAD drawings. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively update these imported files.
Steps to Update an Imported CAD File in Revit
Step 1: Access the Import Panel
Launch Revit and open your project. Navigate to the Insert tab located in the top menu. Here, you will find the Import CAD option within the Import panel.
Step 2: Select the File Type
A dialog box will appear when you select the Import CAD option. In this box, look for the Files of type dropdown menu. From this list, ensure you choose the appropriate file type that corresponds to your CAD drawing (e.g., DWG, DXF).
Step 3: Locate the CAD File
Once you’ve selected the correct file type, browse through your directories using the navigation pane to find the folder containing your desired CAD file. Click on the file to select it.
Step 4: Configure Import Options
Before completing the import process, you may need to specify import options based on your project’s requirements. These options could include settings related to layer visibility, units, and positioning. Make the necessary selections to suit your needs.
Step 5: Finalize the Import
After setting your preferences, click Open to import the CAD drawing into your Revit project. The imported CAD file will now be part of your current model, allowing you to further manipulate and design around it.
Reloading an Imported CAD File
If the CAD file has been updated in the original software and you need to reflect these changes in Revit, follow these steps to reload the file:
Step 1: Open Manage Links
Navigate to the Manage tab located in the top menu. Look for the Manage Projects panel and select Manage Links.
Step 2: Access the CAD Formats Tab
In the Manage Links dialog, switch to the CAD Formats tab. This will display all linked and imported CAD files associated with your Revit project.
Step 3: Select and Reload the File
Find the updated CAD file in the list and click on it to highlight it. Press the Reload button to refresh the links. Upon confirmation, the updated CAD file will integrate with your current Revit project.
Troubleshooting Missing Imported CAD Files
In circumstances where you cannot visualize your imported CAD file within Revit, consider the following:
- Ensure that the file’s coordinates are not positioned too far from Revit’s internal origin point. If the CAD file has values exceeding 20 miles (32 kilometers) from this origin, it may not display correctly.
- Check basic visibility settings in Revit to ensure that all necessary layers are turned on.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between importing and linking a CAD file in Revit?
Importing a CAD file embeds it into the Revit model, losing any connection to the external source. Linking, conversely, maintains a live reference, allowing you to reflect updates from the external CAD file automatically whenever changes are made.
2. Can I edit an imported CAD file in Revit?
Direct editing of an imported CAD file is not possible. However, you can modify the geometry in Revit based on the imported file and re-import it if changes are made in the original CAD software.
3. How can I ensure my CAD files are compatible with Revit?
To ensure compatibility, use supported file formats like DWG, DXF, DGN, SAT, and SKP. Always check the version of the CAD files as well, ensuring they are saved in a compatible format for Revit.
These steps and insights should provide a solid foundation to efficiently update and manage imported CAD files within Revit projects.
