B3 - Group E - Allison Lock

Revit is a useful modelling tool from which three-dimensional models are readily created from types and families. This post will compare Revit to the alternative BIM tools, Autocad and Sketchup.

Revit is a Building Information Modelling (BIM) system in which defined types or families are added to a sketch to create a structure. Scaled features represent different floor, wall, ceiling, and roof construction types. Families of structural, mechanical, electrical, HVAC, furniture, windows, doors, and other components can then be imported and placed into a model. Revit allows designers to indicate each of the major building systems, architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical, in a single model. This allows for intelligent design as overlaps and multi-system issues can be addressed in the model, reducing the occurrence of surprises in the field. Construction materials and systems are also called out in models.

Autocad is a BIM tool that is commonly used in industry. The program allows for the easy creation of floor plans, sections, and elevations drawn from single lines. Layers can be used to distinguish different systems from one another. In my work experience I primarily focused on site and structural design. At both firms Autocad was the modelling system of choice. Mainly two-dimensional plans were created. Autocad can also be used to make three-dimensional models and sections however in my experience this is not as common. Generally it seems easier to make models in other programs and Autocad is thus limited in this respect. A lack of model information limits component collision analysis and prohibits client visualization therefore many projects may use other programs to create such models despite the process being time consuming and repetitive. However Autocad is also one of the most commonly used tools in the field as three dimensional models are not fully necessary for professionals in the business to be able to construct a building and diagram construction is quick, easy, and can be used to design a wide variety of structures.

Sketchup is a tool that is effective when it comes to creating general shapes. The program can be used to create general shapes that represent either entire complex or an individual structure. Components can be placed and attached to one another to mimic systems however individual systems cannot be loaded and information on systems in not available through the program. Thus Sketchup is a useful tool for expressing the architectural form of a building but is not useful for determining multi-system interactions, component information, or drawing details. In comparison to Revit, Sketchup is easier when it comes to creating odd geometries with slanted walls and other features but Revit includes more information on elements and construction.

I commented on Adrian Kuzniarowicz’s and Mark Lodato’s posts.

Derenoncourt, Pierre. "AutoCAD or Revit - Where Do You Draw the Line?" Pluralsight Creative. Pluralsight, 2014. Web. 25 Jan. 2016.

Huang, David. "Revit vs. Sketchup." Payette. Payette, 10 Apr. 2015. Web. 25 Jan. 2016.