Snap 3D imported geometry for massing

[kafka]

Here it is....a long and old problem Revit has with imported geometry..

I am trying to re-make a mass geometry done in another software. It not very complex but it has tapered volumes and I would be like to snap point in 3D but it seems I can-t

The only easy way is to import geometry in a mass family ans convert faces to components but I would really like to "trace" the volume as a native Revit mass geometry!

Any suggested workflow? Why is so difficult to snap imported geometry in 3D ?

[Dimitri Harvalias]

You won't be able to snap to vertices but you can 'pick' lines from imported geometry.
What is the original authoring application? What export options are available to you for the geometry? Is the geometry more planar or free form in nature?

[kafka]

Thanks for the message.

So You are sayinf that if I export lines that outline the volume than Im able to pick them in 3D and the will stay in their original location i.e. they wont be projected in to a workplane? Ill give a try

No geometry is not free form at all all faces are planar. The original drawing is in Microstation but I have a Rhino version as well so I am able to export either as DWG or ACIS. What is best export format in your opinion?

[Dimitri Harvalias]

You'd need to test to see what the best option would be. Either format will give you edges to select. Keep in mind that Revit will still associate the edges with a workplane but it should allow you use the lines to 'carve' your mass a bit better. Can you upload an image of, better yet, the model geometry in native DWG or ACIS format?

[kafka]

here is the test dwg. from my understanding I have to set teh workplane every time to the relevant face and then pick the edges. It will be quite long..but it seems the only way to go.

86612