Final Considerations - Autodesk AutoCAD 2013 Practical 3D Drafting and Design - page 458

• MEP : This is used to project mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
• Structure : This is used to project building structural elements
It is possible to import 3D models in Revit and convert them into Revit objects, such
as mass elements.
The best file formats to communicate with Revit are DWG and SAT.
We present some tips to prepare AutoCAD models:
• One layer must be given to each material (in Revit, materials are applied
to layers, identified by object styles).
• Units must be consistent.
• An AutoCAD object's properties, such as color and linetype, must be
ByLayer , so these can be modified in Revit. If objects have explicit col-
ors or linetypes, it is not possible to modify them.
• AUDIT and PURGE should be performed before saving or exporting to
SAT.
Clues for development
To be an excellent 3D modeler in AutoCAD, it is important to know all commands
and concepts well, but the most important is practice, practice, and practice.
Here are some final advices for development:
• Before starting in 3D, the model must be understood well.
• All model dimensions must be known or easily decided (if we are creating
something new). We may consider creating some volumes just to decide
general dimensions.
• Where to start a 3D model must be planned well. Frequently a wrong start
represents hours or days of lost work.
• Output is also important as it may influence the modeling. For instance, if
it is for rendering, it may not need important details in far parts of the mod-
el; when creating models for prototyping in stereo lithography, the model
must be a single mesh and cheaper to produce if hollowed.
• If the project includes 3D blocks, such as furniture or equipments, an In-
ternet search may be performed, or the manufacturer may be contacted.