Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Using Annotations for Devices
Although the use of symbolic lines is helpful for identifying devices in
section and elevation views, these objects are typically represented in plan
views by symbols. Annotation families can be added to your device families
to represent them in the same manner you would add them for a traditional
2DCAD project. Nested annotations can beparametric as well, allowing you
to control their orientation and visibility so that they can be shown on your
construction documents in an appropriate manner. These same annotation
families can be used as your legend symbols to ensure that they match what
you are showing in plan view.
An annotation family is loaded into another family in the same way a family
isloadedintoaproject.ClicktheLoadFamilybuttonontheInserttabofthe
Family Editor to load an annotation family.
Annotation Library
Having a well-stocked library of annotation families is useful for
creating devices. You can build a library of symbols that matches your
library of CAD blocks. You can even use your CAD blocks to develop
your Revit symbols by importing them and duplicating their linework,
but be sure to remove the imported CAD data after you have created a
Revit version of the symbol. See Chapter 18, “Creating Symbols and
Annotations,” for more information on creating annotation families.
As mentioned earlier, the Maintain Annotation Orientation parameter is
important for face-hosted families. When you place an annotation family
into your device family, it appears only in model views that are parallel to
the view in which it is placed in the family. With the parameter selected,
you can place the annotation in the Ref. Level view of the family and it
appears even when the device is hosted vertically. Currently, the Maintain
Annotation Orientation parameter is not available to all families, which
could be a significant limitation when creating families. Annotation families
cannot be placed into an elevation view when you're working in the Family
Editor.
