How Do I Import Topography From SketchUp to Revit?

How Do I Import Topography From SketchUp to Revit?

If you are working on a project where you need to import topography from SketchUp to Revit, you’ve come to the right place. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process step by step. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Exporting the Topography from SketchUp

To begin, open your SketchUp file and navigate to the “File” menu. From there, select “Export” and choose the “3D Model” option. Make sure to save the file in a location that is easily accessible.

Step 2: Importing the Topography into Revit

Open your Revit project and go to the “Massing & Site” tab. Click on “Toposurface” and select “Create from Import.” A dialog box will appear.

Note: Before importing, ensure that your project units in Revit match those in SketchUp. This will ensure accuracy when importing the topography.

Step 2.1: Linking or Importing the File

  • If you have linked the SketchUp file into your Revit project previously, click on “Link Revit” under the “Insert” tab and browse for your SketchUp file.
  • If you haven’t linked it before, click on “Import CAD” instead and locate your exported SketchUp file.

TIP: It is recommended to link instead of importing as it allows for easy updates if changes are made in SketchUp later on.2: Configuring Import Settings

  • In the import dialog box, select the desired options for positioning, scale, and visibility of the topography. These settings will vary depending on your project requirements.
  • Ensure that the “Current View Only” box is unchecked if you want the topography to be visible in all views.

TIP: It’s a good practice to check the “Specify coordinates at origin” option to establish a common coordinate system for future reference between SketchUp and Revit.3: Placing the Topography

After configuring the import settings, click on “OK” to import the topography. Revit will prompt you to specify a location in your project where you want to place it. Click on a point in your desired location, and Revit will create a topographic surface based on the imported data.

Step 3: Modifying and Editing the Topography in Revit

Once you have imported the SketchUp topography into Revit, you can make modifications as needed. Use tools like “Edit Surface” or “Split Surface” under the “Modify | Edit Surface” tab to refine and adjust specific areas of your topography.

Note: Remember that any modifications made in Revit will not affect your original SketchUp file. The imported topography is now an independent element within your Revit project.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have covered how to import topography from SketchUp into Revit. By following these steps, you can seamlessly transfer terrain data between these two powerful software applications. Remember to configure import settings properly and make any necessary adjustments within Revit for a precise representation of your site’s topography.

Happy designing!