topic Re: Level based & Face Based Hybrid Family Prototype in Revit MEP Forum

Level based & Face Based Hybrid Family Prototype

dmiller_SCE — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 19:17:00 GMT

I just wanted to share a prototype family concept with the group and get some feedback. I like using face-based families when possible; however, there is no denying the need and flexibility of level based families. What I wanted was to achieve a family that contained the best of both worlds. A single family that I can place either directly referencing the level(none hosted family) or referencing the face of an element such as a ceiling. The trick is getting it to do it and be orientated correctly despite the hosing method. No need to flip the element. I have provided screencast showing the function of the family.

Re: Level based & Face Based Hybrid Family Prototype

ToanDN — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 19:21:39 GMT

Use a Workplane based families (check workplane, uncheck always vertical).

Re: Level based & Face Based Hybrid Family Prototype

dmiller_SCE — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 20:09:53 GMT

@ToanDN thank you for the suggestion of the work plane family. The work plan based family works for this type of example, but you still have to flip the devices so that it is going the correct orientation depending on how you place it. I am trying to ensure that the user places the devices correctly on placement no need to flip the family work plane. Also, the place vertical on face option is not available unless using a face based family. This option makes it easier to place wall mounted lights on the floor plan view. What I am trying to imagine is that I have something like a strip light. This light can be placed on Ceiling, Wall, or suspended. I would like a single generic family that can encompass being placed directly on a ceiling, suspended, or placed vertically on a wall without needing to cut sections or create additional views to place items other than a floor plan and RCP plan. I am open to any input or if I can take the work plane family and make it function as described that would be a simpler solution. Also if no ceilings are present in the model the users can place the lights on the level and everything will be orientated correctly.

Re: Level based & Face Based Hybrid Family Prototype

ToanDN — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 21:51:17 GMT

How about a line based family?

Re: Level based & Face Based Hybrid Family Prototype

dmiller_SCE — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 22:19:49 GMT

@ToanDN interesting idea and thinking outside of the box. I will look into this and see if this family category can yield desired results. I am not that familiar with that type of family.