Rhino import to Revit 2017

By Dennis Collin

Rhino import to Revit 2017

With Revit 2017.1 we now have support for the importing of Rhino '3DM' files into both families and projects. This is very useful when we need to be able to use manufacturer's geometry and have it shown within a Revit project.

Fig 1. Settle Model imported into Revit via 3DM format

The extra file format option is listed under the Insert tab of the Ribbon interface

The file shown here is one of the sample files that you can download from McNeel's website. In this case a settle but, before importing into Revit it is worth checking the model in AutoCAD or Rhino to see that the mesh is 'watertight' and that all holes are capped. Otherwise the model may not import or show in the preview window.

With the example shown I noticed some errors about some elements (the side cushions) not being able to be imported. But the bulk of the geometry comes through and looks correct.

If you do have problems importing the data or a Rhino license isn't available, you could try bringing in data via AutoCAD instead. Which has had Rhino support for some years.

The AutoCAD Rhino import is a little more complete, notice with AutoCAD the presence of side cushions that are not imported with the Revit Rhino file reader. This is to be expected as the AutoCAD development team have had more time to refine the import process. The materials I added in AutoCAD to aid in visual checking of the model's integrity.

Fig 2. Settle Model imported into AutoCAD via 3DM format

However, this is early days for Rhino support in Revit and no doubt this feature will be improved and developed with upcoming updates. In any case one could always use AutoCAD as the 'translator' and bring in DWG data instead. Alternatively use the SAT import routine in either program, whichever will give the best results.