How to Import 3D in Revit?

Understanding 3D Import Capabilities in Revit

Revit is a powerful software that allows users to import various types of 3D files to enhance their building models. Supported file formats include DWG, DXF, DGN, SAT, and Trimble® SketchUp®. Each of these formats can contribute essential 3D geometry and objects, which can serve as a foundation for your designs.

Types of 3D Files You Can Import

1. DWG & DXF Files: Commonly used for CAD designs, these file formats allow for the incorporation of 2D and 3D geometry. They can contain ACIS solids, which are compatible with Revit.

2. DGN Files: Often used in civil engineering, you can bring in 3D objects structured within these files into Revit.

3. SAT Files: These contain ACIS geometric data, making them suitable for importing solid models directly into Revit.

4. SKP Files: Trimble® SketchUp® files can also be integrated into Revit to kickstart the modeling process.

Steps for Importing 3D CAD Files into Revit

1. Begin with the Import Procedure:

   • Open Revit and navigate to the “Insert” tab on the ribbon.
   • Locate the “Import CAD” option within the Import panel.

2. Selecting the File Type:

   • A dialogue window will emerge. Here, you will find a dropdown menu labeled “Files of Type.”
   • Choose the file format you wish to import (e.g., DWG, DXF, SAT).

3. Locating Your File:

   • Use the file explorer that appears in the dialog box to navigate to the folder containing your desired 3D CAD file.
   • Once found, click on the file to highlight it.

4. Adjusting Import Options:

   • Before finalizing your import, customize the import settings to suit your needs. Options may include setting the scale, orientation, and the layer settings applicable for the import.
5. Initiate the Import:
   • After you’ve made all necessary selections, click the “Open” button to begin the import process.
   • Revit will process the file and display it within your current model view.

Linking Models to the Existing Revit Project

You can easily link another Revit model to your current project, allowing for collaborative design efforts.

1. Open Your Model:

   • Start by either opening an existing model or creating a new one where you want to link another Revit model.

2. Access the Link Panel:

   • Navigate to the “Insert” tab again and select “Link Revit” under the Link panel.

3. Choose the Revit File:

   • In the subsequent dialog, browse to find the Revit model you want to link.

4. Positioning Settings:

   • Decide how you would like to position the linked model by choosing the appropriate option in the dialog.
5. Complete the Linking Process:
   • Click “Open” to finalize the process, and the selected model will be linked to your current Revit project.

Importing Civil 3D Files into Revit

1. View Settings:

   • Switch to a 3D view within your Revit project.

2. Access the Toposurface Tool:

   • Click on the “Massing & Site” tab, then select “Toposurface.”

3. Import Procedure:

   • Choose the “Create from Import” option, then select “Select Import Instance.”
4. Finalizing the Import:
   • Select the DWG file that contains your Civil 3D drawing. Follow the prompts to bring it into your Revit project.

FAQ

Can I edit AutoCAD files after importing them into Revit?
Yes, once a DWG file is imported into Revit, you can explode it to make modifications and later export it back to DWG format after your edits.

Is it possible to bring in a Civil 3D drawing directly into Revit?
No, you cannot directly import Civil 3D files into Revit. You will need to first export your Civil 3D drawing to a standard AutoCAD format before importing it.

What should I do if my imported files are not displaying correctly?
Check the import settings to ensure that layers are appropriately set and that scale and orientation are correctly configured. You may also need to verify the compatibility of the file format you are importing.