How to Get Revit Model into SketchUp?

Importing a Revit Model into SketchUp: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transferring a Revit model into SketchUp involves a few specific steps to ensure a smooth transition. While Revit is commonly used for comprehensive architectural modeling, SketchUp offers a more user-friendly interface for visualization and design revisions. Below are the detailed steps needed to successfully import a Revit model into SketchUp.

Step 1: Prepare Your Revit Model for Export

1. Open Your Revit Project: Start by launching Revit and loading the project that you want to export.
2. Set the View: It’s essential to select a 3D view for proper export. Navigate to the view tab and choose a 3D perspective that captures your project effectively.

Step 2: Export the Model from Revit

1. Access the Export Menu: Locate the ‘File’ tab in the upper left corner of the screen and click on it.
2. Select Export Options: Hover over ‘Export’ and then navigate to ‘CAD Formats’. Choose the “DWG” option from the list that appears on your screen.
3. Configure Export Settings: A dialog box will prompt you to set up your export preferences. Here, options such as scale, layers, and units can be adjusted. Ensure that you select ‘AutoCAD DWG’ as the format.
4. Export the Model: Once you have configured the settings, finalize your export by clicking ‘OK’ or ‘Export’. Name your file and choose an appropriate location to save it.

Step 3: Convert the DWG to DXF Format (if necessary)

While SketchUp supports DWG files, using DXF format can sometimes yield better results. To convert your DWG file:

1. Open AutoCAD: Launch AutoCAD and open the exported DWG file.
2. Save As DXF: Click on ‘File’, then ‘Save As’. From the file format dropdown menu, select “DXF”. Choose your preferred location and click ‘Save’.

Step 4: Import the Model into SketchUp

1. Open SketchUp: Start SketchUp on your computer and open a new project or an existing one.
2. Initiate the Import Process: Click on ‘File’ in the menu, then select ‘Import’.
3. Choose Your File: In the import dialog, navigate to the location of your DXF or DWG file. Ensure the ‘Files of Type’ dropdown menu is set to either DXF or DWG.
4. Set Import Options: Before finalizing the import, review the options to ensure the model aligns as expected. Adjust settings such as scaling and units, if necessary.
5. Finalize the Import: After selecting the file and adjusting the settings, click ‘Import’. Your model will now appear in the SketchUp workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I directly import Revit files into SketchUp?
No, you cannot directly import Revit (.rvt) files into SketchUp. The model must first be exported from Revit to a compatible format, such as DWG or DXF.

2. What should I do if the model appears distorted in SketchUp?
If the model appears distorted after import, check the scaling settings during both the export in Revit and the import in SketchUp. Make sure that the units match appropriately.

3. Can I view Revit files without having Revit installed?
Yes, you can use Autodesk Viewer to open and review Revit files without needing the Revit software installed on your machine. Additionally, other viewers like Navisworks can also display Revit models.