Visibility Graphics of Linked Mechanical Model

Since Revit MEP 2012 Mechanical engineers have been using “Systems” to develop their Revit models. These ‘Systems” have impacted how we can manipulate the graphics when linking into the Architectural model.

Here is how we can change the MEP model when linking it into our Architectural model.

Here is what the MEP model looks like when linked into the Architectural model.

  3D view in hidden line.

Open the Visibility Graphics dialog box (VV or VG).

Go to the Filters tab and add a new filter, create a new Filter called Mechanical.

In my template I already have a Mechanical filter created.

  

Modify the colour of the Projection/Surface Lines and the Cut Lines to black.

Also check the halftone box, this will change the mechanical components to halftone making it easier to distinguish the Architectural and Mechanical models on the printed drawings.

  

You model should now look like this….

By using Filters to control the visibility of the linked file every time we update the link the filters will apply.

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Using the Silhouette tool

Ever used the Silhouette tool in Revit??

This is applicable for both RAC 2012 and 2013, however in 2013 you can use the silhouette tool on all view types whereas on 2012 it’s only available on Wireframe, Hidden Line, Shaded and Consistent Colours.

Under the Graphic Display Options you can select what line style you can use for Silhouette…. But firstly let me explain exactly what this feature can do…

When using Silhouette you can select a Line Style that will be applied to the leading edge of objects.
See the effect on the samples below.

In the days of hand drafting I was taught to outline the building and main features with heavy pen, this would help define the building and make the sheet easier to read… the Silhouette tool will do this for you.

You can select from the drop down selection the range of Line Styles available to you, what I have done was created a new Line Style called “Silhouette” which I can then adjust the line weight as desired.

Revit will automatically apply a line style to silhouette edges.

All Silhouette edges are view-specific, so if you want to apply the Silhouette to other views just create a View Template which you can apply to the other views.

After you have applied silhouette edges to the model, there may be edges you do not want to display in silhouette. You can remove these lines as necessary.

To apply a line style to a silhouette edge:

1. On the View Control Bar, click  > (Visual Style) > Hidden Line, Shaded, or Realistic.

Silhouette edges are not available for Wireframe or Shaded model graphic styles.

2. On the View Control Bar, click  > (Shadows Off/On) > Graphic Display Options.
3. In the Graphic Display Options dialog, in the Model Display panel, select a Silhouette style (for example, Wide Lines).
4. Click OK.

To remove a line style from a silhouette edge:

1. Click Modify tab View panel (Linework).
2. In the Type Selector, select <Not Silhouette>.
3. Select the edges in silhouette, and the silhouette is removed.

     No Silhouette   

 

 Silhouette using Medium lines

 

Making your drawings Pop!

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