Mini-Storage Buildings

[Lansing]

We are experimenting with the viability to use Revit to solve an unusual problem. A client builds metal storage buildings around the country.

The buildings have heavy duty metal studs 5' apart, low slope roofs, and 2' wide metal panels for the exterior walls, roof and interior partitions.

He needs to improve on the 2D drafting process he does in AutoCAD, which is quick, but does not link to an accurate quantity takeoff. A major difference between the solutions I've seen posted here and his needs is that each wall panel must be scheduled ... no 'rule of thumb' stuff here will work. So we are thinking every single panel will need to be placed in the model with the exact cut length. They don't use any angled cuts, even on the gabled ends. We also have to schedule the studs, trim!, and doors.

We have come across more than a few challenges in our initial attempts into this project:

Will we have to create pseudo walls to allow us to insert doors?

Is there a way to create a simplified panel (straight line) in plan view, but correct profile with ribs in detail (fine view)? ie, does revit support simplified geometry for coarse view, not just simplified texturing and hatching linework?

The alternative software being considered is Inventor, but it doesn't understand architectural dimensioning. Suggestions/comments?

[Mr Spot]

Sounds like the curtain wall tool could come in handy. The stud work could be defined by mullions and you could define what would normally be glass as the metal panels. Doing it this way its possible to attach to the roof, schedule and place doors.

In answer to you other question about level of detail. The only items which have the ability to control their level of detail for geometry are family items. In which you could select certain elements to only be visible in fine or medium detail.

Hope this is helpful.