How to Export from Revit to MicroStation?

Understanding the Revit to MicroStation Export Process

Exporting from Revit to MicroStation can be a vital task for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction who need to collaborate across different software platforms. Though MicroStation cannot directly read Revit’s RVT files, you can achieve the desired conversion by following a series of steps to export your Revit project to a compatible file type. This guide outlines the detailed process for exporting Revit files so they can be utilized within MicroStation.

Step 1: Exporting the Revit Model to a Compatible Format

To begin the export process, you should first open your Revit model:

1. Launch Autodesk Revit and open the project you want to export.
2. Once the model is open, click on the "Application Menu" (the "Big R" icon located in the upper-left corner).
3. Navigate to the "Export" option and select "CAD Formats."
4. Choose the file format you desire, typically DWG, for your export. This format is widely accepted and can be easily imported into MicroStation.

Step 2: Configuring Export Settings

After selecting DWG, you may need to adjust your export settings for proper file generation:

1. In the DWG Export dialog box, select "Modify Export Setup" to adjust settings according to your project needs.
2. Review the available tabs, including views, sheets, and other export configurational options. Ensure that the correct views and sheets are checked for export.
3. Once you’re satisfied with your selections, click “Next” to proceed.

Step 3: Finalizing the Export Process

With the export settings customized, it’s time to finalize the process:

1. You’ll be prompted to choose a file name and location to save your DWG file.
2. Specify your desired file name and the directory where the file will be stored.
3. Review the export summary and click “Export” to complete the process.

The file will now be saved as a DWG, which can be opened in MicroStation.

Step 4: Importing DWG into MicroStation

Once you have the DWG file, you can start the process to import it into MicroStation:

1. Open MicroStation and select "File" from the top menu.
2. Click on "Open" and navigate to the location where your DWG file is saved.
3. Change the file type filter to “All Files” or “DWG Files” to locate your newly exported DWG file.
4. Once found, select the file and click “Open.” MicroStation will import the file accordingly, allowing you to use and manipulate the model within its environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I export multiple views from Revit in one go?
Yes, you can export multiple views or sheets at once. When in the export settings, ensure that the "In session views/sheet set" is selected, and select the specific views you want to export.

Q2: What configurations can I adjust during the DWG export process?
During the export process, you can configure options such as layer mapping, units, view visibility, and specific export setups to customize the export per your project requirements.

Q3: Are there any limitations when exporting from Revit to DWG?
While the DWG format is widely compatible, not all Revit elements may translate perfectly due to differences in software capabilities. It is essential to review the DWG file in MicroStation after importing to ensure all elements transferred correctly.