Revit

How to Make 2 Dimensions Equal in Revit?

Understanding Equality in Dimensions in Revit

Revit is a powerful tool for building information modeling (BIM), and managing dimensions is an essential skill to master. Setting two dimensions to be equal can streamline the design process and ensure consistency throughout your project. Follow these detailed steps to make two dimensions equal in Revit.

Step-by-Step Process to Make Two Dimensions Equal

  1. Select the Dimension Element
    Start by clicking on the dimension line you wish to modify. Ensure that you select the entire dimension, as this enables you to access the properties effectively.

  2. Access the Properties Palette
    Once you have selected the dimension, navigate to the Properties palette on your screen. If the palette is not visible, you can activate it by going to the View tab and selecting the user interface option to show the Properties palette.

  3. Set the Equality Display Option
    In the Properties palette, locate the ‘Equality Display’ parameter. This option allows you to designate how the equality between dimensions will be represented. You can choose from three settings:

    • Value: Displays the actual numeric value.
    • Equality Text: Shows an equality mark (EQ).
    • Equality Formula: Displays a formula that may involve other parameters.
      Select the preferred display option based on your requirements.
  4. Apply Changes
    After making your selection, click the ‘Apply’ button to implement the changes. The dimensions will now reflect the equality property you have set, ensuring they are adjusted accordingly as you modify the model.

Adding Equal Dimensions to Your Model

To establish new equal dimensions, follow these steps:

  1. Select the Desired Reference Elements
    Highlight the elements or lines you want to dimension. Be sure they are positioned correctly and in line with your design intentions.

  2. Initiate the Dimension Tool
    Go to the Annotate tab, then find the Dimension panel and select either the Linear or Aligned dimension tool as needed.

  3. Create the Dimensions
    Click on the elements in your model to define the dimension lines. As you do this, observe any equality suggestions or prompts that Revit may offer.

  4. Set to Equal Dimensions
    Select the dimension you just created, and in the Properties palette, set the ‘Equality Display’ as outlined earlier. Don’t forget to click ‘Apply’ to enforce the changes.

Understanding the Equalization Feature

Equalization allows you to modify several dimensions simultaneously, ensuring they correspond with one another. Here’s how you can utilize this feature:

  1. Select All Relevant Dimensions
    Click and drag to create a selection box around all the dimensions you want to equalize or hold down the Ctrl key while selecting individual dimensions.

  2. Adjust the Dimensions
    Once multiple dimensions are selected, check the Properties palette for the equality setting. Change this setting for all selected dimensions to your preferred choice (Value, Equality Text, or Equality Formula).

  3. Confirm Changes
    Click ‘Apply’ to confirm the adjustments. The selected dimensions will equalize, ensuring uniformity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What happens if one of the dimensions is locked?
If a dimension is locked, it cannot be altered until it is unlocked. You can unlock it by clicking on the lock icon next to the dimension in question.

Q2: Can I revert the dimensions back to their original values after equalizing?
Yes, you can manually set dimensions back to their original values or use the undo function if you have just made the changes.

Q3: Is it possible to make dimensions equal across different views or sheets?
Yes, as long as the dimensions reference the same elements and parameters, equalizing dimensions can be consistent across different views or sheets within your Revit project.

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.