Revit

Revit Can Only Move Horizontally?

Understanding Movement Capabilities in Revit

Revit provides users with a versatile set of tools for moving objects within their 3D models. Many users may wonder if the software is restricted to horizontal movements or if vertical movements and other forms of positioning are possible. This article aims to clarify the various ways to move elements in Revit and demonstrate that movement is not limited to horizontal directions.

Moving Objects Vertically

To maneuver an object vertically within Revit, follow these steps:

1. **Select the Object**: Click on the element you wish to move, ensuring it is highlighted.
2. **Activate the Move Tool**: Either right-click and select the ‘Move’ option from the context menu or find the move command on the Modify tab.
3. **Choose a Reference Point**: Click once to set the initial point from which you want to move the object.
4. **Drag Vertically**: Move your cursor up or down to dictate the vertical direction. You can also use the keyboard arrow keys for more precision.
5. **Finalize the Move**: Either click a second time to finish the movement or input a specific vertical distance and press Enter to complete the action.

Free Movement of Objects

Revit facilitates the free movement of objects on your model:

1. **Initiate the Move Command**: Access the move feature using the Modify tab or right-clicking the selected object.
2. **Select a Starting Point**: Click on the element to set your move’s origin.
3. **Freely Navigate**: Drag your mouse in the direction you wish the object to travel. You can adjust your path based on your view.
4. **Specify Distances**: For exact precision, enter a numerical distance and press Enter for a more controlled movement.

Utilizing the Steering Wheel for View Adjustments

For users looking to examine objects from different angles or heights, the Steering Wheel tool is invaluable:

1. **Activate the Steering Wheel**: You can find this tool in the navigation bar.
2. **Select the Pan Tool**: Choose the ‘Pan’ feature to move the entire view freely.
3. **Navigate**: Click and pull the cursor up or down to shift your view upwards or downwards effectively.
4. **Release the Mouse**: Let go to settle the view in its new position.

Movement of Multiple Objects

Revit also allows for the simultaneous movement of multiple objects, enhancing workflow efficiency:

1. **Select Multiple Items**: Hold down the Ctrl key while clicking on each object.
2. **Drag to Create a Selection Box**: Alternatively, click and drag diagonally to encompass all desired elements within a rectangular area.
3. **Execute Movement**: Use the move command to drag all selected items at once. Arrow keys can also assist in horizontal or vertical adjustments.

Changing the Host of Family Components

For users working with family components, repositioning objects to different hosts is straightforward:

1. **Access a Section or Elevation View**: Set the view to see the level-based component you want to alter.
2. **Select the Component**: Click on the family element for modification.
3. **Change the Host**: Use the ‘Pick New Host’ option that appears on the Modify tab.
4. **Choose the New Location**: Click on the new host (such as a different floor or level) to finalize the transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Can I move elements in 3D views only?**
Movement is not limited to 3D views; you can move elements in any type of view (such as plan or elevation).

**Is it possible to move objects with precise measurements?**
Yes, Revit allows users to enter exact distances for movements, ensuring precision.

**How do I ensure that multiple objects maintain their spatial relationships when moving?**
By selecting multiple elements and using the Move tool collectively, Revit preserves the relative positions of those objects as you navigate in the workspace.

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.