Forums >> Revit Building >> Technical Support >> Problematic window family

pstinson1987

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Joined: Wed, Dec 14, 2011
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I have been working on this window family for several drafts now and am still having some difficulty with its finalisation.

Currently the type has been set to be flexible in section - allowing it to be used for varying depths of precast and cavity. (the actual size of the window is set and doesn't need to be intelligent)

However i am still having numerous issues;

1.) currently the window type has been used within our model lets say on 100 occasions. All of these windows have been extensively dimensioned in my block setting out drawings. These all feature the vent on the right hand side. This is incorrect. On approximately 50% of the windows the vent should be on the left hand side. When I try to swap out the right window family type for the 'left window family type' I realise that i could just use the flip control but wish to use a different family for scheduling purposes) I am met with told the old dimension is no longer valid and will be deleted. As the windows are subject to change in the future I don't wish to have to redraw hundreds of dimensions every time there is a small change.

Is there a way the family or the dimension can be manipulated so that even when the family changes the internal structural dimension remains intact?

2.) A less pressing issue but possibly related. When I use the flip command within the project the window jump a full few meters to the side as if the point of origin is offset rather than centered. Having checked the family type center line apears where it should do.

This single window type has eaten up too much of my time already. The family inquestion has been attached for any of you to have a look at. I would be greatful for any feedback on either matter.

Thank you!!! :-)

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WWHub

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Joined: Tue, May 16, 2006
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Your problem will not probably be easily solved.  

You have probably read that Revit requires an earlier thinking process.  That's not only with the building design but also in how you use the product.  This is going to be an opportunity for you to learn.

When you create families, you need to pay attention to reference planes.  You have already identified one of the issues - origin.  That is why your family jumps when flipped.   Another is for dimensioning.  It sounds like you dimensioned to geometry in the family rather than "is reference" planes. 

Check this out.  In a project, place a single swing door (standard library).  Now dimesion from something else to both sides of the door but be careful to dimension to the door reference.  Now swap the door to a double door (standard library).  Because both of these doors are defined with "is reference" left / right planes, the families will swap and the dimesions will still work.  Flip the double left to right and it still works.

Did a light bulb turn on?  I hope so .... but it doesn't help you here.

Personally, I think handing is not a type issue and I would use the same family.  Use the flipper - just like you do for doors.  Then you could give the family an instance parameter called hand that you could schedule.... Of course you have to set this.

Good luck.

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pstinson1987

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Joined: Wed, Dec 14, 2011
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I figured as much but just wanted to double check.

Thanks for the advice!!

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