At the completion of step three of our Revit Classroom Workflow segment you should have a clearly defined Revit model. You have already explored many different material, structural, and mechanical options. You've analyzed these options graphically and numerically. Most importantly, you've extracted priceless information from your model and, in doing so, have become more intimate with your building/concept at a much deeper level than ever before.
The next step, implementation/documentation, will vary depending on the program requirements of your school. Some programs may require a complete set of detailed construction documents, while others won't even require dimensions. Conversely, in the professional world this step is crucial. Revit excels during the construction document process. Your model, by now, should be thought out and developed enough so that when you cut a section it is correct. Not necessarily to the detail of sill plates and nuts and bolts (see this tutorial). But a generic solid filled section should be created. There are still days when I site back and marvel over the amount of sheets that I generate in such a short period of time during this step.
A great tip to keep in mind during this stage is utilizing some drafting views. This will apply more for professional practice but is great to know as a student. Drafting views have great advantaged when being used on typical details. For example, handicap toilet details will rarely ever change. Take the time to draft some beautiful typical details using wide lines for walls (keeping it generic so it can apply to many cases). Simply import them (or add them to your Revit template). Drag them on a sheet and call them out! (See this tutorial).
I am not going to explain how to create construction documents and what is required. That's for you to know and learn in school. I will explain some of the advantages you will experience during the C.D. phase because you are using Revit:
- Very quickly create sheets and paper.
- Instantly create details and sections in an place or direction. (Who knows, your professor may ask you to cut a section on a 30 degree angle... easy!)
- Elevations are already created. Simply dimension, note, and detail as needed. (if you have a building with angled masses Revit is priceless.) Also, light shadows add great depth to your elevations.
- Instantly create and coordinate schedules.
- Coordination of all callouts is done for you. No more printing and redlining over and over again because you consistently forget to change that one section bubble.
- If a spec book, or project manual, is required, E-Specs coordinates your model with your project manual.
- If a budget is set for the project material take-offs, automatic scheduling, and Cost-X will make your life much easier.
- If you must coordinate MEP, Structure, and Architecture, NavisWorks can be used for a variety of outcomes. From collision detection to presentations.
Stay tuned for the next step on our chart!
