Understanding Central Models in Revit
Revit serves as a powerful tool for collaborative architectural design, allowing multiple users to contribute to a single model. It operates primarily with a central model that serves as the authoritative source of design data, enabling users to create local copies for individual editing. Detaching from a central model can be essential for various reasons, such as working independently of other team members or preparing to create a new central model.
Step-by-Step Guide to Detach from a Central Model
1. Prepare to Open the File
Begin by locating the project file you wish to detach from. Make sure that you are using the correct version of Revit that corresponds with the central model.
2. Initiate the Opening Process
Launch Revit and proceed to the File tab located in the upper left corner of the application window. Click on “Open” to initiate the file opening process.
3. Select the Central Model
Navigate through your directories to locate the central model stored on the server. Once found, select it by clicking on it once to highlight.
4. Enable Detach Option
In the Open dialog box, ensure that you check the box labeled "Detach from Central." This action ensures that you are opening a version of the file independent of the central model.
5. Choose Your Detach Preferences
Upon confirming the detach option, the model will open, presenting you with two choices:
- Detach and Preserve Worksets: This keeps the worksets intact for potential future collaboration.
- Detach and Discard Worksets: Opt for this if you do not need to retain any collaborative settings or worksets. If you only want a clean model free from collaborative elements, choose this option.
6. Finalize and Save Your Detached Model
Once the model has opened as per your chosen options, it’s crucial to save your work. Go to the File tab again and select “Save As.” Modify the file’s name if necessary and determine a suitable location for the new detached model. Save it in a location where the file can be accessed for future use.
7. Verify the Model
Open your saved file to confirm that the detachment process was successful. Check that there are no remaining links to the original central model and that it functions as an independent file.
Additional Considerations
Deciding to detach from the central model means that synchronization capabilities with the original file will no longer be available. Be aware that if you detach and discard worksets, all associated element assignments and visibility settings will be removed permanently, although new worksets can be created in the detached model afterward. This operation can streamline your workflow when you need to focus on specific components of the design without interference from ongoing collaborative efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does the option to detach from the central model sometimes appear greyed out?
This typically occurs due to issues with the network connection being busy or disrupted. It might also happen if another user is attempting to create a local copy simultaneously or if you are opening a file that was created in a newer version of Revit.
2. How can I revert back to the central model after detaching?
Once you detach from the central model, you cannot revert back directly. Any changes made to the detached model will not sync with the central model. However, you can manually manage updates by comparing the changes against the central model.
3. Is it possible to restore discarded worksets after detaching from the central model?
No, once you choose to discard worksets during the detachment process, they cannot be restored. It is essential to consider whether preserving them may be beneficial before making this decision.
