Datums, Levels, Spot Elevations

[Anonymous]

nevermind. 

[Anonymous]

Anyone have a good elevation/level/datum tag they can share?

Here's my situation:

1.  I wanted to move my multiple parapet / roof levels to the correct elevation.  But I realize it will mess up the position of just about all the modeled and detailed elements and I've already started detailing.

2.  So instead, Hide levels, and utilize Spot Elevations to show the important heights.

3.  Can I add text to my Spot Elevations? Nope, lower value instance parameter is gray.

4.  Now, last resort, I need to indicate my levels with a dumb ol' tag.

We should be able to move levels independent of any modeled elements (let the computer do the work).  The idea of attaching elements to levels (sticky levels) is overrated.  You should at minimum have the option to unstick them from the model in order to move them in relation to the modeled and detailed elements, The same logic as the paperclip for the project base / survey points.

[barthbradley]

I'm not sure if there's a question buried somewhere within those erroneous statements/assumptions.  Is there? 

[Anonymous]

1.  Can I move levels without moving anything else (modeled elements, detail items, lines, etc.)?  If not then:

2.  Can I "fake" a datum using an intelligent tag?, like a spot elevation.  If not then:

3.  I'm using a dumb tag - which I just made.

[barthbradley]

Interesting question. Sounds like you want to add a level.  I mean, if you move a level and nothing goes along for the ride, well then what's the point? Sincerely.  

...I'm not totally clear on the questions you added, but I'm wondering if you can achieve what you want by moving the Levels' Base Elevation Reference (either Project Base Point or Survey Point), or use a different Level with a different Base Elevation Reference?  

[Anonymous]

What's the point of moving a level without the model exploding into pieces?

I've never had a situation where I've moved the level and has LESS work to do because the modeled elements moved with it.  Every time I've done this, it's more work because ultimately there are always rogue elements attached to the levels, or elements attached to the wrong levels.  I get the Revit dream, but that's not reality, levels can/do change well into construction documents for good reason.

[Avaris.]

I have never seen an explosion caused by moving a level. Certainly, you need to update some 2D elements if you used them. But most of the correct attached 3D elements will go with it?

I really recommend shifting the elements, rather than faking it with elevation markers or spot elevations.

[barthbradley]

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@Anonymous wrote:

What's the point of moving a level without the model exploding into pieces?

I've never had a situation where I've moved the level and has LESS work to do because the modeled elements moved with it.  Every time I've done this, it's more work because ultimately there are always rogue elements attached to the levels, or elements attached to the wrong levels.  I get the Revit dream, but that's not reality, levels can/do change well into construction documents for good reason.

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The question I was responding to, was the question you originally asked, before you edited your post. You asked: "Can I move levels without moving anything else".  That just sounded odd to me. I wanted clarification.  I mean, if you could move a Level without anything moving (you can't), then what's the point of the Level in the first place?  I would just add a brand new Level if I wanted additional datum to show another elevation.  

[Anonymous]

It serves the exact same purpose as a reference plane with annotation.  It is there so that the levels model-wide can be visually identified and referenced.  I'm not saying elements shouldn't be able to attach.  What I'm saying is there should be an option to detach the level and reattach the level at a different elevation.   Otherwise your levels are pretty much set-in-stone as the project gets larger, unless you want to do a ton of rework to change the level.

[barthbradley · Accepted solution]

Alrighty; I get it.  And, yes, I feel your pain too. Been there; done that -- and, yes; it's sometimes very frustrating. That's why God invented beer.