Understanding the Coordinate System in Revit
Revit uses a unique internal coordinate system critical for positioning elements within a model. This system features three different origin points: the Internal Origin, Project Base Point, and Survey Point. While the Internal Origin remains fixed, the Project Base Point and Survey Point can be adjusted to establish the project’s coordinate system according to various site conditions.
Relocating the Project Base Point
To effectively manage your project’s positioning, relocating the Project Base Point is essential. This point serves as a reference for coordinates and can be moved without altering the actual building elements. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open the Site Plan view or any view that clearly displays the Project Base Point.
2. Select the Project Base Point symbol by clicking on it.
3. If the icon appears as a gray circle with a white triangle, it’s clipped. Right-click and select “Unclip,” allowing for movement.
4. Click and drag the Project Base Point to its new desired location, typically near a known reference point like a building corner or property line.
Adjusting Project Base Point Settings
Once the Project Base Point has been relocated, you may want to set specific configurations:
1. With the Project Base Point still selected, navigate to the Modify tab.
2. Here, you can pin the base point to prevent accidental movement in the future by clicking on the “Pin” option.
3. It’s useful to adjust the base point to maintain consistency when working with multiple team members or when additional building elements are introduced.
Using the Relocate Project Tool
For projects requiring broad movements or adjustments in relation to other elements, using the Relocate Project tool is recommended:
1. Go to the Manage tab located in the toolbar.
2. Find the Project Location panel and click on the “Position” drop-down menu.
3. Select “Relocate Project.” A cursor will change to indicate it’s ready for action.
4. Click and drag to shift the entire project in your working view without changing the building geometry itself.
Viewing and Managing the Internal Origin
Even though the Internal Origin doesn’t shift, understanding its location can help orient other elements:
1. Ensure that you can view all necessary points. Open Visibility/Graphics from the View tab.
2. In the Model Categories tab, scroll down to the “Site” section, and check options for “Project Base Point,” “Survey Point,” and “Internal Origin.”
3. Enable these points’ visibility to confirm their positions and relationships within the model.
Geolocating Your Model
For projects requiring geographical accuracy, like those intended for energy analysis, defining the location is essential:
1. Go to the Manage tab and find the Project Location panel.
2. Click on “Location” to open settings where you can define the desired geographic location.
3. Choose or enter the location specifics. If energy analysis is required, select a nearby weather station to ensure accuracy in calculations.
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can the Internal Origin be moved directly in Revit?**
No, the Internal Origin is fixed and cannot be relocated. It serves as a constant reference point for the model.
**2. How do I hide the Project Base Point in my view?**
To hide the Project Base Point, use the Visibility/Graphics settings to uncheck it from the view. Alternatively, use a Dynamo script to automate hiding multiple points.
**3. What happens if I relocate the Project Base Point?**
Relocating the Project Base Point adjusts the project’s coordinates but does not affect the actual geometry of the building elements within Revit, allowing for flexible project placements.
