topic Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family? in Revit Architecture Forum

Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

paul_anstey — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 21:24:07 GMT

Hey all,

I'm very new to Revit, and have been remodelling scaffolding parts. I've had a lot of trouble achieving the shapes using the extrusion tools in the Generic Family, and found using Mass forming in Generic Adaptive much easier. However, I'm concerned about the limitations of Mass forms in large projects, and scheduling. Correct me if I'm wrong.

I've attached a family file and a screenshot.

Cheers!

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

blank... — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:11:04 GMT

@paul_anstey wrote:
I've had a lot of trouble achieving the shapes using the extrusion tools in the Generic Family

These are all simple extrusions and blends, which element were you struggling with so we focus on that one?

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

paul_anstey — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 23:56:57 GMT

Thanks for getting back to me. I've uploaded 2 videos to show the shape and my attempt at recreating it in a Generic family.

I pick the work plane, use the Blend tool, and draw the first shape. Then Edit Top, try to change work plane, but it won't let me. Is there a way to do this without using void forms?

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

blank... — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:18:03 GMT

Here's a video. First element is most easily created by using voids. Second one is a blend, you have to place reference planes, and name them, before you start to model.

Create them as separate families, then nest them into your main one. That way you can easily constrain them to ref planes in the main family and make it parametric. Top and bottom plane for blends have to be co planar.

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

paul_anstey — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:29:00 GMT

Thank you so much for the video! So in terms of remodelling these shapes, you recommend not trying to use the existing lines as refence but just starting from scratch? I haven't tried that approach yet, because my current task is to remodel these parts exactly in native Revit geometry. Do you think there is a way to base it off the existing lines, or do I need to manually create them?

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

blank... — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:13:01 GMT

@paul_anstey wrote:
So in terms of remodelling these shapes, you recommend not trying to use the existing lines as refence

Depends, if it's possible to use them, no reason no to.

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

paul_anstey — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 01:30:35 GMT

OH MY GOD you don't know how long I've tried to do this. You are a goddamn life saver. THANKYOU!!!!!

This is exactly how I feel: https://youtu.be/_bTuo6N_y1s?si=qTfVBCW6RSDdCxKc&t=58

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

paul_anstey — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 05:33:42 GMT

In terms of the first extrusion with the voids, is it not possible to achieve with a blend? I tried doing it the same way but I couldn't select the workplane I'd created.

Re: Is it possible to create this kind of geometry in Generic Family?

paul_anstey — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 06:29:46 GMT

'Top and bottom plane for blends have to be co planar.'

Realised you already covered that.