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View Full Version : Copy Model Elements Out and Re-Link



jstaylor
2012-01-10, 03:22 PM
Here is what I have done:

I started with an existing architectural model which I detached from central and discarded worksets and saved locally to make it "mine". This model contains hundreds of views, sheets and is a very detailed architectural model containing multiple phases.

I then proceeded to link in a site DWG, create a topographical surface, model some existing building envelopes and model a a shoring wall. I added some phases and used some existing phases. I created several views in plan, section and elevation some of which were based off of copies of the pre-existing views. I also created several sheets.

In the meantime the architectural model central file has been updated. Until now this did not affect my work because the envelope was not changing. The new model being issued will have envelope changes that do affect my work.

Here is what I would like to accomplish:

Ideally I would be able to create an empty project file into which I would be able to transfer my created elements, sheets and views. I would then like to be able to link the architectural model at this point so that any further updates can be reflected by simply loading a new model link.

It seems to me, however, that I would need to have the project standards and possibly some view and other sundry items existing in my new project before attempting to copy over my created elements. This is where I would really like some direction to make sure I get the new project file appropriately configured before attempting to copy over my work.

Additionally, I am curious as to how I might be able to make a linked model behave as something more intelligent than a single import instance. That is, the reason I performed my work in the architectural model itself as opposed to linking it from the beginning was that I needed to be able to interface with the exterior faces to place my shoring walls. I also needed the pre-existing levels and grids (which I am pretty sure I can share easily anyhow). As a linked model it was not possible to place walls using "pick line" and offset. Is there a way to make a linked model available in such a way that pick line/offset and other such tools function the same as if the model elements were not linked but part of the project?

Apologies for the long post and multiple questions. If I knew how to interface intelligently with a linked model i would not have created this mess. Now that I have I would like to copy my work out of the mess and hopefully understand how to not have to do it again in the future.

jstaylor
2012-01-10, 08:52 PM
My current solution underway is to delete all of the model elements, sheets and views that I did not create out of the project file I am working in. Once this effort is complete I intend to attempt to link in the architectural model.

This seems like it should effectively accomplish my goal of separating my work from the architectural firm's work while maintaining any project standards, levels, grids, etc. that my work was hinging upon.

Can anyone point out any caveats to this approach?

jstaylor
2012-01-11, 03:35 PM
Well, deleting the architectural elements, sheets, views and design options seems to have produced the desired result.

I'm still left with the issue of being unable to adequately interface with the architectural model as a linked model because Revit treats it as one big block.

Even with a linked DWG I can pick single lines to interface with. Is there some view settings I can configure so that I can interface with single elements in a linked model as opposed to it becoming a huge block of worthlessness? Is it only good for visualization as a link? I just want to be able to draw walls that are offset from the exterior face of the linked model. But any clicking on the linked model results in selection of the entire model.

LP Design
2012-01-11, 03:53 PM
...interface with single elements in a linked model as opposed to it becoming a huge block of worthlessness?

I understand your frustration, but I don't quite understand the cause. Yes, linked files can be a hastle, but I have always been able to use TAB to cycle through exactly what elements I want to reference. You can also use Copy/Monitor to bring elements directly into your model and warn you when the linked file changes them.

Additionally, I usually find that drawing in elements separately and then aligning them to their proper place ends up with less errors or hidden associations compared to using "pick lines". You should be able to align elements to the linked file.

It almost sounds like something else is going on with your model preventing you from using the functionality of the linked file? Have you come across other similar issues?

jstaylor
2012-01-11, 04:19 PM
Thanks, lpiburn, for your response.

I will consider your view about aligning elements as opposed to using pick lines.

I have solved this issue by opening the architectural model using the detach from central option then detaching and discarding worksets and finally saving this file separately and linking in this modified file.

Considering that this method obtains the desired results is there any light shed on how to link the original model and get the same results?

LP Design
2012-01-11, 04:32 PM
Sorry, that one is over my head. I have no idea why you would be able to work with a stand-alone linked file but not the same file that had worksets enabled. Hopefully others here have a better idea. Glad it's working at least!

-LP