Revit

How to Change from 3D View to 2D View in Revit?

Transitioning from 3D View to 2D View in Revit

Revit is designed to facilitate building design with a robust array of viewing options, including 3D and 2D perspectives. When the need arises to switch from a 3D view to a 2D representation, there are specific steps to follow that ensure a smooth transition. Below are the detailed instructions to help you achieve this efficiently.

Step 1: Open the Desired 3D View

Begin by launching Revit and navigate to the Project Browser. Expand the 3D Views folder to locate the specific 3D view you wish to convert. Double-click the view to open it in your workspace.

Step 2: Duplicate the 3D View

To prevent any alterations to the original 3D view, it is advisable to create a duplicate. Right-click on the 3D view name in the Project Browser and select Duplicate View followed by Duplicate. This operation ensures that you retain the original view intact.

Step 3: Set the View to 2D

With the duplicated view open, you will need to modify its properties. Navigate to the View Control Bar located at the bottom of the application window. Here, you can toggle between different view types. While Revit does not have a direct "2D view" option, representing the 3D geometry in a 2D format can typically be achieved by utilizing the section box or crop region tools.

Step 4: Apply a Section Box (If Applicable)

If your view contains a lot of complex geometry that needs to be simplified, adding a section box may be beneficial. Go to the View tab and select Section within the Create panel. Draw the section box around the 3D elements you wish to include in your 2D view. This allows you to isolate specific parts of the model and capture them in a flattened representation.

Step 5: Export the View

To create a 2D representation on paper or in another digital format, the next step is to export your view. In the main navigation menu, click on File and then choose Export. From the drop-down, select CAD Formats, and choose DWG. A dialog box will appear, allowing you to select the storage location for the DWG file. After specifying the desired options and confirming your selection, click OK to initiate the export process.

Step 6: Adjust View Settings (Optional)

Before finalizing your 2D view, you might want to adjust some visual settings. Within the view properties, explore options such as Visibility/Graphics to manage what elements are visible. You may want to turn off elements like furniture or landscaping for a cleaner 2D representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I create a 2D floor plan directly from a 3D view?

Yes, you can create a 2D floor plan that reflects elements from a 3D view by using the section box or crop region to focus on specific architectural components and then exporting this view.

2. What file formats can I use to export my 2D view?

Revit allows you to export your 2D views in various formats, including DWG for AutoCAD and PDF. Choose the format that best fits your workflow requirements.

3. Is it possible to print a 2D view directly from Revit?

Absolutely. You can navigate to the print dialog within Revit to print your 2D view directly, adjusting settings such as print area and scale to fit your documentation needs.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.