Autodesk Revit Architecture - How IT Works

How It Works

All three Revit products (Architecture, Structure and MEP) use .RVT files for storing BIM models. Typically, a building is made using 3D objects to create walls, floors, roofs, structure, windows, doors ductwork, electrical systems and other objects as needed. These parametric objects— 3D building objects (such as windows or doors) or 2D drafting objects (such as fasteners)— are called "families" and are saved in .RFA files, and imported into the RVT database as needed.

A Revit model is a single database file represented in the various ways which are useful for design work. Such representations can be plans, sections, elevations, legends, and schedules. Because changes to each representation of the database model are made to one central model, changes made in one representation of the model (for example a plan) are propagated to other representations of the model (for example elevations). Thus, Revit drawings and schedules are always fully coordinated in terms of the building objects shown in drawings.

When a project is shared between several users, a central file is created which stores the master copy of the project database on a file server on the office's LAN. Each user works on a copy of the central file (known as the local file), stored on the user's workstation. Revit manages permissions on objects by locking them in the central file, ensuring that only one user has rights to them at a time. Users can periodically synchronize their changes back to the central file and receive changes from other users.

Multiple disciplines working together on the same project make their own project databases and link in the other consultants' databases for verification. Revit can perform collision checking, which detects if different components of the building are occupying the same physical space. When setup correctly schedules can also provide information to verify the functional aspects of a building. For example the level of occupancy for the room area, as well as electric and ventilation loads.

Revit is one of many varieties of BIM software which support the open XML-based IFC standard, developed by the buildingSMART organization. This filetype makes it possible for a client or general contractor to require BIM-based workflow from the different discipline consultants of a building project. Because IFC is a non-proprietary and human readable format, it is archivable and compatible with other databases, such as facility management software.