Auto-Dimension for curtain wall panels and walls

Introduction

The Auto-Dimension plugin for Autodesk Revit is a powerful tool that automates the process of creating dimensions for curtain wall panels and basic walls. With this plugin, users can easily generate accurate and consistent dimensions for different types of curtain wall panels and walls, saving valuable time and improving overall productivity.

Streamline Curtain Wall Panel Dimensioning

One of the key features of Auto-Dimension is its ability to automatically place dimensions between two sides of system panels in curtain wall panel families. This ensures that the dimensions are accurately aligned with the panels, providing precise measurements for design and construction purposes. The dimensions are conveniently placed on the exterior side of the walls, making them easily accessible and visible.

Furthermore, for loadable curtain wall panel families, the plugin intelligently positions dimensions between default reference planes, named "Left" and "Right". This flexibility allows users to customize the dimension references by using specific reference planes named "Dim-Left" and "Dim-Right" if desired. This level of customization enhances the accuracy and precision of dimensioning in Revit.

Efficient Wall Dimensioning

Auto-Dimension also offers efficient dimensioning options for basic walls in Revit. Linear dimensions are placed for linear walls, providing clear measurements for length and height. For curved walls, angular dimensions are automatically generated, considering the arc length value of the curved wall. This ensures that the dimension values are accurately represented, following the project units for length set in Revit.

The plugin also extends its dimensioning capabilities to wall types with sweeps. In such cases, the host wall of the sweeps must have an intersection with the view range for the dimensions to be properly placed. Auto-Dimension takes care of these considerations, ensuring consistent and accurate dimensioning for wall sweeps.

Enhanced Dimensioning for Doors and Windows

Auto-Dimension provides a seamless dimensioning experience for door and window elements in Revit. For curtain wall-based door and window families, the plugin follows the same dimensioning principles as curtain wall panel loadable families. This consistency guarantees reliable and accurate dimensions, facilitating precise planning and coordination within design and construction teams.

Furthermore, for door and window families located in linear walls, dimensions are intelligently placed on the wall openings, providing clear measurements for width and height. However, it's worth noting that dimensions are not created for doors and windows on curved walls. This limitation is a minor inconvenience considering the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the plugin.

Seamless Dimensioning for Linked Models

Auto-Dimension includes a convenient feature called Link-Dimension, which allows users to place dimensions on elements within a linked Revit model. By turning on the view crop, the plugin can automatically generate dimensions for all valid elements in the selected linked model. This feature is particularly useful for collaboration purposes, enabling efficient dimensioning across different models and disciplines.

Valid types in the linked Revit model, including curtain wall panel system families, curtain wall panel loadable families, curtain wall panel (wall type), door-curtain wall families, and window-curtain wall families, can all benefit from the dimensioning capabilities of Auto-Dimension. However, it's important to note that linked basic walls and their associated door/window elements are not currently supported by the plugin. Nevertheless, the ability to use linked basic walls as curtain panels within a curtain wall adds significant value to the dimensioning process.

Conclusion

The Auto-Dimension plugin for Autodesk Revit is a valuable tool for architects, designers, and engineers who work extensively with curtain wall panels and walls. By automating the dimensioning process, this plugin significantly improves efficiency, accuracy, and productivity within Revit. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, Auto-Dimension is a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their dimensioning workflow in Revit. We highly recommend giving this plugin a try and experiencing the benefits firsthand.