This idea is split out from this post.
There are a few commercial/industrial electrical elements I'm finding myself constantly struggling to replicate in the MEP system, and I think they could potentially be incorporated as new Revit Electrical Equipment types. If not, I'd at least like to bring them to the developer's attention so they see the pain points we are encountering.
"Transformer and Panel" - This would be a combination of a transformer feeding an electrical panel. So it would have a primary and secondary distribution system like a transformer, but it would also allow you to produce a panel schedule.
- I have not currently found a way to replicate this as a single electrical element, so many items like Power Distribution Units, Mini Power Zones, Mini Power Centers, all need to be modeled as two separate elements, even if they are housed in one box.
- If you try nesting the panel inside the transformer, or vice versa, you run into problems setting up the electrical circuit.
- This forces you to name and circuit two separate elements, and if the name changes you need to rename the panel, the transformer, and both circuits.
- You also have to be mindful that if the items are moved, they are moved together as a unit.
- You also typically need to make the transformer hidden so you don't have two elements in your plan views, but then others are confused when they go to make changes.
Alternatively, this could be solved by allowing nested electrical equipment to be pre-circuited internally. That would be a better solution since you could then use it to model entire substations as well, with a primary disconnect, a transformer, and multiple secondary compartments represented by a panel schedule. You could even use it to model transfer switches with built-in protective devices.
