How to dimension a 3D view from an imported IFC model

[FSiedschlag]

Hi,

I modelled a wooden beam on a different software and I want to use Revit to put all the dimensions.

I actually want to put dimensions on the 3D model of the beam. I can lock the 3D view but cannot select a plane to start putting the dimensions. I simply cannot select any plane, clicking won't do anything. I was able to use the "EDIT IN PLACE" option and from there I'm able to put the dimensions I want, however as soon as I click the "FINISH THE MODEL" button all my dimensions disappear from my 3D view. 

I thought about making this specific 3D view into a drafting view, and then put all the dimensions from there, but couldn't find anything related to that as well.

Can someone help please? 

[bill_gilliss]

Assuming that the beam has a major planar face that you want to dimension, use Work Plane > Set to make that face the current work plane, then use Navigation Wheel > [dropdown] > Orient to a Plane and select that plane. You can now dimension the beam and the dimensions will be in 3D:

Note that this will not work in perspective views, only orthographic. If you try to change an orthographic view with dimensions to orthographic, Revit replies:

[FSiedschlag]

Hi Bill, thanks for your answer I appreciate that.

Unfortunately, I've tried what you suggested before.

Being even more specific, I modelled the beam on Sketchup and exported it as an IFC model. My goal is to put all the dimensions using Revit, however for some reason when I do the following:

Architecture tab > Work Plane panel > Set

I can't click any face. It simply does not allow me to. 

Now if I just select the beam:

Modify / Generic Models > Edit In-Place

Then I can use the method above, select one of the beam's faces and put the dimensions I want. The problem with that is that as soon as I'm done putting all the dimensions and click Finish Model they just disappear and don't show on the screen. 

This is truly driving me crazy. Please someone help! 

[bill_gilliss]

The dimensions created in the Edit-in-Place environment never persist back into the project environment, regardless of what is being edited. Post the IFC beam here, maybe, so others can have a crack at it?

[FSiedschlag]

Sure. 

This wooden beam is part of an awning I'm designing and I need the shop drawings done so production at the Prefab can start. 

I especially need to put all the dimensions where the wood connects to the knife plate and stuff like that. Not being to do that on Revit is creating so much stress for me.

If I create a beam directly on Revit the process of putting the dimensions is easy enough and the Steps you describe in your first answer work. I realize the problem resides in the beam being imported from an IFC model, but cannot find the answer to be able to dimension it correctly inside Revit once it's been imported. 

Here is the link to the IFC model of the beam in question. 

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1P4_xQypIykFEouupVT2IP6OpofW_9xNn?usp=sharing 

Sorry, the first link wasn't working so I posted it again. 

[barthbradley · Accepted solution]

I don't understand why import SKP beam to IFC, but what you are describing is typical is typical behavior.  Are you trying to select a face of the SKP/IFC beam just to create a work plane to put your dimensions on?  Why not just orient the to a Named Work Plane? 

Another workflow you could use, would be to open  the SKP beam in AutoCAD using "ImportSKP" add-in" and then save it to DWG.  Then insert the DWG into Revit.  

...even better, rebuilt these components as Revit Families. It would be super easy.  Hour or two max.  

[FSiedschlag]

Hey barthbradley, 

Thanks for the response. It steered me in a totally different direction. 

I'm fairly new to Professional Revit and I try to stay away from Sketchup and Autocad as much as I can. I still don't know very well how to model an entire new family using Revit, but I bet it would make life so much easier. 

Thanks for taking the time to answer my question. It temporarily "solved" what I was trying to do.