A rapid modeling method for rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features
The rapid modeling method of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features solves the problem of low modeling efficiency of Revit software in structural forward design, realizes the automatic generation of axis grids and structural columns and engineering quantity calculation, improves the efficiency and accuracy of design and construction, and supports multi-software integration.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411230290.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-04
- Publication Date
- 2025-09-30
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-09-04
AI Technical Summary
The existing Revit software has problems with low modeling efficiency and proneness to errors in structural forward design. Especially when dealing with complex building structures, it cannot meet the needs of convenient one-click parametric rapid modeling.
A rapid rectangular column modeling method based on Revit API and flow section construction features is adopted. Tab pages and buttons are created by programming in C# language. Combined with WPF user control forms, the automatic generation of axis grids and rectangular structural columns is realized, and the identification of flow section and engineering quantity calculation are supported.
It improves modeling efficiency and accuracy, simplifies the creation process of axis grids and structural columns, supports the rapid design of complex building structures, improves the collaborative efficiency of design and construction, reduces human errors, and supports seamless integration with other BIM tools.
Smart Images

Figure CN119047050B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of BIM building structure modeling, and in particular relates to a method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features. Background Art
[0002] As structural design is a key stage in the early stage of the entire life cycle of a building, BIM technology is introduced and structural forward design is proposed in order to achieve three-dimensional design and results display based on the structural BIM model. As the main carrier of structural forward design, the structural BIM model should meet the collaborative needs of structural professionals and other professionals such as architecture in the overall forward design process and the requirements of the sophistication and accuracy of structural design. The known native structural modeling method using Revit software can complete the establishment of a structural three-dimensional model, but it cannot meet the needs of structural forward design in terms of convenient one-click parametric rapid modeling.
[0003] There are differences in the research and development of BIM technology application tools at home and abroad, which is mainly manifested in the fact that foreign BIM technology application software is superior to domestic software in database processing and integrity, functional diversity and development depth. However, domestic BIM technology application software relies on open source development platforms and unique local experience, and has outstanding performance in software localization and practicality. Among them, Revit, as a BIM platform that integrates many advantages such as friendly 3D modeling interface, convenient loading of auxiliary application interface and complete development tools, has become a popular secondary development platform.
[0004] The existing native structural modeling method based on Revit software has many shortcomings. For example, the traditional method requires drawing the axis grid and structural columns one by one, which is a cumbersome and error-prone process, especially when dealing with complex building structures. In addition, when dealing with large-scale building models, existing technologies often have problems such as low efficiency and slow response, which seriously affect the design progress and quality. There are differences in the research and development of BIM technology application tools at home and abroad. Domestic BIM technology application software is relatively weak in database processing and functional diversity, but it performs well in software localization and practicality. As a popular BIM platform, Revit has the advantages of a friendly three-dimensional modeling interface and convenient loading of auxiliary application interfaces, but it still needs further development to meet the efficient modeling needs of structural forward design. Summary of the Invention
[0005] To solve the above problems, the present invention discloses a method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features. The convenient one-click parametric rapid modeling not only improves the efficiency and accuracy of modeling, but also introduces the recognition function of flow section. Through this function, the user can identify different flow sections in the model and can select any flow section. The system will automatically calculate and output the corresponding engineering quantity of the section. This improvement can significantly improve the efficiency and quality of complex building structure design and meet the needs of the development of BIM technology application tools at home and abroad.
[0006] To achieve the above object, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows:
[0007] A method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features includes the following steps:
[0008] S1: Use C# language to write a program to form a Revit API interface file, create a tab page and a panel in Revit software, and add two buttons for clicking to create a grid and a rectangular structural column respectively;
[0009] S2: The user clicks the button for creating the grid. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click action and pops up a WPF user control form. The user enters the grid span (z1) and depth (z2) parameters in the form, selects the grid type, and enters the grid number prefix (z3).
[0010] S3: The user clicks the button for selecting a starting point on the plan to generate the grid. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click, hides the current WPF user control form, and prompts the user to click and pick a starting point (x1, y1) in the current elevation plan view. The picked point is used as the intersection of the first longitudinal and transverse axes, and the user input parameters z1 (grid span), z2 (depth), and z3 (number prefix) are recognized to generate the longitudinal and transverse axes. The formula is described as follows:
[0011] - Longitudinal axis position: x = x1 + n*z1 (where n is the number of longitudinal axes)
[0012] - Transverse axis position: y = y1 + m*z2 (where m is the number of transverse axes)
[0013] The generated axis grid number is z3_ni_mj (where i and j are the axis numbers).
[0014] S4: The user clicks the button for creating a rectangular column. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click and pops up a WPF user control window. The left side of the window displays the rectangular column family types in the current file. The user can select the appropriate rectangular column type directly or add a new type. To better manage the parameters entered by the user, the system has designed a storage class (ParameterStorage) to store the user-selected column type and related parameters. This storage class includes the following properties:
[0015] - `string ColumnType`: the type of rectangular structural column
[0016] - `double ColumnLength`: the length of the rectangular section
[0017] - `double ColumnWidth`: width of the rectangular section
[0018] - `string Material`: the material of the rectangular structural column
[0019] Through this class, the system can display and manage user input parameters in the user interface to ensure data consistency and accuracy.
[0020] S5: The user clicks the button for selecting the axis grid and generating a rectangular structural column at the intersection. The RevitAPI interface file responds to the button click action, hides the current WPF user control form, and prompts the user to select the axis intersection where the structural column needs to be created. The axis grid selected by the user is highlighted with a blue shadow, and the user input parameters and the selected axis intersection of the current view are recognized. A rectangular structural column of corresponding material and cross-sectional size is created with the axis intersection as the center, and different structural column materials are distinguished by different colors, so that rectangular structural columns from the current elevation to the upper elevation can be quickly created.
[0021] S6: Through deep integration with Revit API, this system also supports interoperability with other BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools. Users can export created grids and structural columns to other BIM software for further analysis and design, improving overall project collaboration efficiency.
[0022] S7: The system provides a detailed log function that records every user action and system response, making it easier for users to troubleshoot and resolve issues. This log function can also be used for auditing and project management, ensuring that all actions are documented and improving project management.
[0023] S8: The plug-in can also read flow construction progress files and extract corresponding progress features, allowing users to select any flow construction segment and calculate the corresponding project quantities. By importing the construction progress file, the system automatically parses the file content and generates a visual progress chart. Users can intuitively select the construction segment through the chart. Based on the progress data of the selected segment, the system automatically adjusts the parameters of the rectangular columns and other components to match the selected flow section, and then calculates and displays the corresponding project quantities, including information such as material requirements, workload, and construction period.
[0024] Through the above steps, the present invention provides a method for rapid rectangular column modeling based on the Revit API and the flow section construction feature. This method not only simplifies the creation process of the axis grid and structural columns in the traditional BIM model, but also improves the efficiency of design and construction through parameterization and automation.
[0025] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in step S2, the grid type is obtained by the following method: obtaining all grid types in the current project file by using the OfCategory method in the FilteredElementCollector class and the WhereElementType method.
[0026] BIM forward design emphasizes fully considering construction and maintenance requirements from the initial design stage. Therefore, the parametric modeling method of this invention reserves the interfaces and data points required in subsequent stages when creating the grid. For example, when selecting the grid type, the system automatically generates information related to construction nodes and equipment installation locations, making the entire design process more coherent and efficient.
[0027] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rectangular structural column type in step S4 is obtained by the following method: all rectangular structural column types in the current project file are automatically retrieved through the executeEventHandler.ExecuteAction class.
[0028] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rectangular structural column type in step S4 has the following characteristics: the specific parameters of the rectangular structural column type obtained and displayed include: the length of the rectangular cross-section (a), the width of the rectangular cross-section (b) and the material of the rectangular structural column (c). When selecting the rectangular structural column type, the user can also view the detailed parameters and schematic diagram of each type to make the best choice.
[0029] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system in step S8 not only handles complex construction progress information but also enables real-time data updates and feedback, thereby improving the accuracy and controllability of construction plans. Users can adjust construction section selection and parameter settings at any time, and the system will recalculate and display the corresponding project quantities based on the latest data. This flexibility makes the entire construction management process more efficient and accurate.
[0030] To further improve design efficiency, the present invention also supports rapid comparison and optimization of different design options. Users can define different sets of design parameters in the system, which automatically generates corresponding structural models and compares the material usage, construction difficulty, and cost-effectiveness of each option, helping designers make the optimal choice.
[0031] This parametric acquisition method not only improves design efficiency but also ensures data consistency and accuracy. When selecting different structural column types, users can quickly adjust relevant parameters based on project requirements. The system automatically updates and applies these parameters, reducing manual input errors and repetitive work.
[0032] Furthermore, the present invention interacts with users through a WPF user control form, making parameter input and selection more intuitive and convenient. Users can enter and select the required parameters in the form, and the system automatically recognizes and generates the corresponding structural elements. This user-friendly design further improves user experience and operational efficiency.
[0033] The aforementioned main solution of the present invention and its various further alternatives may be freely combined to form multiple solutions, all of which are solutions that can be adopted and protected by the present invention. After understanding the solutions of the present invention, those skilled in the art will be able to understand various combinations based on existing technology and common knowledge, all of which are technical solutions to be protected by the present invention, and these are not exhaustive here.
[0034] The beneficial effects of the present invention are:
[0035] In Revit software, the building model axis grid information is connected to realize parametric one-click axis grid creation, avoiding the repetitive work of drawing the axis grid of traditional structural BIM models in sequence according to the axis lines; in Revit software, parametric one-click rectangular structural columns are created in batches, avoiding the repetitive work of setting parameters and drawing structural columns of traditional structural BIM models in sequence according to individual components.
[0036] Automatic retrieval and display of grid and rectangular column types and parameters make it easier for users to select and manage different structural elements. Rectangular columns of varying materials and cross-sectional dimensions are color-coded, making it easy to identify the characteristics and location of each element even within complex structural models.
[0037] The rectangular column modeling method for forward design of frame structures based on Revit API of the present invention makes parametric modeling operations more convenient and efficient in the process of forward design of BIM structures, makes BIM structure forward design more simulation, parametric and information-based, achieves rapid and accurate expression of structural design results, improves the efficiency of creating the overall structural model, and further improves the efficiency of collaborative design, which has obvious promotion and application value.
[0038] Furthermore, the technical solution of this invention supports seamless integration with other design and management software. Model data can be directly imported into construction and facility management systems, forming a comprehensive information platform that spans the entire design, construction, and operations lifecycle. This integrated workflow not only improves collaborative efficiency at all stages but also provides strong support for full building lifecycle management.
[0039] The technical solution of this invention is not only applicable to the structural design of new projects, but also to the renovation and expansion of existing buildings. Through parametric modeling and automated operation, it can quickly respond to design changes and adjustments to meet the needs of different projects.
[0040] By adopting the technical solution of the present invention, it is possible to significantly reduce repetitive work in the design process, reduce human errors, and improve the consistency and accuracy of the design, thereby providing strong support for BIM forward design and promoting the informatization and intelligent development of the construction industry.
[0041] In summary, the rectangular column modeling method for forward design of frame structures based on Revit API realizes the rapid creation and management of axis grids and structural columns in BIM models through efficient automated operations and humanized user interface design, greatly improving the efficiency of design and construction, and has broad application prospects and promotion value.
[0042] The present invention is not only technologically innovative but also demonstrates significant benefits in practical applications. By improving design and construction efficiency, reducing costs, and shortening construction periods, the present invention has significant application value and market prospects in the construction industry. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the process of the rectangular column modeling method for forward design of frame structure based on Revit API of the present invention;
[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the axis network parameter setting interface of the method of the present invention;
[0045] Figure 3 Creating a grid diagram for the method of the present invention;
[0046] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the interface for setting parameters of rectangular structural columns in the method of the present invention;
[0047] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of creating a rectangular structural column in the method of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the following specific embodiments are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.
[0049] Reference Figure 1-Figure 5 The method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features described in this embodiment includes the following steps:
[0050] A Revit API interface file is formed by writing a program in C# language, which is loaded and run. In the Revit software, a tab page, a panel and two buttons for clicking to create an axis grid and a rectangular structural column are created in sequence.
[0051] The user clicks the button for creating a grid. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click and pops up a WPF user control form. The user enters the grid span and depth parameters in the form. The OfCategory method in the FilteredElementCollector class uses the WhereElementType method to obtain all grid types in the current project file. The user selects the grid type and enters the grid number prefix.
[0052] The user clicks the button for selecting a starting point on the plan to generate the axis grid. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click, hides the current WPF user control form, and prompts the user to click to pick a starting point in the current elevation plan view. The picked point is used as the intersection of the first longitudinal and transverse axes, the user input parameters are recognized, and the longitudinal and transverse axes are generated in sequence, respectively, to quickly create the axis grid and prompt the completion of the axis grid creation.
[0053] The system enhances the intuitiveness and accuracy of user operations by highlighting the points and lines selected by the user. This interactive method simplifies the grid type selection process and ensures that users can quickly find the grid type they need.
[0054] When the user clicks the button used to create a rectangular structural column, the Revit API interface file responds to the button click action and pops up a WPF user control form. All rectangular structural column types in the current project file are automatically retrieved through the executeEventHandler.ExecuteAction class. The rectangular structural column family types in the current file are displayed on the left side of the form. The specific parameters of the rectangular structural column type obtained and displayed include: the length of the rectangular cross-section, the width of the rectangular cross-section, and the material of the rectangular structural column. The user can directly select or add a new type and then select the appropriate rectangular structural column type.
[0055] This design allows users to more intuitively compare and select different structural column types, further optimizing the user experience.
[0056] The user clicks the button used to select the axis grid and generate a rectangular structural column at the intersection. The RevitAPI interface file responds to the button click action, hides the current WPF user control form, and prompts the user to select the axis intersection where the structural column needs to be created. The axis grid selected by the user is highlighted with a blue shadow, and the user input parameters and the selected axis intersection of the current view are recognized. A rectangular structural column of corresponding material and cross-sectional size is created with the axis intersection as the center, and different structural column materials are distinguished by different colors, so that rectangular structural columns from the current elevation to the upper elevation can be quickly created.
[0057] The system will also automatically check and avoid conflicts between columns to ensure the rationality and safety of the structural design.
[0058] Furthermore, users can further optimize the creation of grids and columns through parametric design. Parametric design allows users to define a set of rules and conditions to automatically generate grids and columns based on the specific needs of the project, reducing manual work time and improving design consistency and accuracy.
[0059] Through deep integration with Revit API, the system also supports interoperability with other BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools. Users can export created grids and structural columns to other BIM software for further analysis and design, improving overall project collaboration efficiency.
[0060] The system provides a detailed log function that records every user action and system response, making it easier for users to troubleshoot and resolve issues. The log function can also be used for auditing and project management, ensuring that all actions are documented and improving project management.
[0061] The system helps users improve construction efficiency and accuracy through automated tools. It reads and parses flow chart construction progress files, extracting key progress characteristic data. Users can select any construction section and obtain the corresponding quantity calculation results, significantly simplifying the construction management process.
[0062] Users simply import a file containing construction progress information into the system, which automatically parses the file's contents. It identifies and extracts key data from the file, such as timelines, task lists, and resource allocations. This process requires no manual intervention, significantly saving time and effort while also reducing the potential for errors caused by manual data entry. Once parsed, the system automatically generates an intuitive progress chart, showcasing the overall progress of the construction project, helping users understand the project's current status and the timelines for each task at a glance.
[0063] On the generated visual progress chart, users can easily click or drag to select a specific construction section. Once a section is selected, the system automatically adjusts relevant parameters based on the specific progress data for that section, including the size, quantity, and material of the rectangular columns and other components, to ensure that they match the actual conditions of the selected section. Once adjustments are made, the system instantly calculates and displays the project quantities for that section. The results include the required material quantities, the workload for each task, and the estimated construction period.
[0064] It should be noted that the above content merely illustrates the technical idea of the present invention and cannot be used to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this technical field, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the present invention. These improvements and modifications all fall within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features, characterized in that: The rapid modeling method comprises the following steps: S1: A program is written in C# to create a Revit API interface file. This creates a tab page, a panel, and two buttons for creating a grid and a rectangular structural column in Revit. This allows users to easily access and use these functions, improving design efficiency and operational convenience. S2: The user clicks a button for creating a grid. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click and pops up a WPF user control window. The user enters the grid span z1 and depth z2 parameters in the window, selects the grid type, and enters the grid number prefix z3. This interactive method simplifies the grid type selection process and ensures that the user can quickly find the required grid type. S3: The user clicks the button for selecting a starting point on the plan to generate the grid. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click, hides the current WPF user control form, and prompts the user to click and pick a starting point (x1, y1) in the current elevation plan view. The picked point is used as the intersection of the first longitudinal axis and the transverse axis. The user input parameters of the grid span z1, depth z2, and number prefix z3 are recognized and the longitudinal and transverse axes are generated. The formulaic description is as follows: - Longitudinal axis position: x = x1 + n*z1; where n is the number of longitudinal axes - Transverse axis position: y = y1 + m*z2; where m is the number of transverse axes The generated axis grid number is z3_ni_mj, where i and j are axis numbers. The system highlights the points and lines selected by the user, enhancing the intuitiveness and accuracy of user operations. S4: When the user clicks the button for creating a rectangular structural column, the Revit API interface file responds to the button click and pops up a WPF user control window. The left side of the window displays the rectangular structural column family types in the current file. The user can directly select or add a new type and then select the appropriate rectangular structural column type. This design allows users to more intuitively compare and select different structural column types, further optimizing the user experience. The rectangular structural column type has the following characteristics: the specific parameters of the rectangular structural column type obtained and displayed include: the length of the rectangular section, the width of the rectangular section, and the material of the rectangular structural column; S5: The user clicks the button for selecting the axis grid and generating a rectangular structural column at the intersection. The Revit API interface file responds to the button click, hides the current WPF user control window, and prompts the user to select the axis intersection where the structural column needs to be created. The selected axis grid is highlighted with a blue shadow, and the system recognizes the user input parameters and the selected axis intersection of the current view. A rectangular structural column of corresponding material and cross-sectional size is created with the axis intersection as the center, and different structural column materials are distinguished by different colors, enabling the rapid creation of rectangular structural columns from the current elevation to the upper elevation. In addition, the system automatically checks and avoids conflicts between columns to ensure the rationality and safety of the structural design. S6: Through deep integration with Revit API, this system also supports interoperability with other BIM tools; users can export the created grids and structural columns to other BIM software for further analysis and design, improving the collaborative efficiency of the entire project; S7: The system provides a detailed log function that records every user operation and system response, making it easier for users to troubleshoot and resolve problems. The log function is also used for auditing and project management, ensuring that all operations are traceable and improving project management. S8: The plug-in is also used to read the flow construction progress file and extract the corresponding progress characteristics. The user selects any flow construction section and calculates the corresponding project quantity. By importing the construction progress file, the system automatically parses the file content and generates a visual progress chart. The user intuitively selects the construction section through the chart. The system will automatically adjust the parameters of the rectangular column and other components according to the progress data of the selected section to match the selected flow section, and then calculate and display the corresponding project quantity, including material requirements, workload and construction period information.
2. A method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: In step S2, the grid type is obtained by the following method: using the OfCategory method in the FilteredElementCollector class to obtain all grid types in the current project file using the WhereElementType method.
3. A method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: In step S4, the rectangular structural column type is obtained by the following method: all rectangular structural column types in the current project file are automatically retrieved through the executeEventHandler.ExecuteAction class.
4. A method for rapid modeling of rectangular columns based on Revit API and flow section construction features as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: In step S5, the user generates a rectangular structural column by selecting the intersection of the axis grid. The system automatically generates the corresponding rectangular structural column according to the parameters input by the user, and highlights the selected points and lines to enhance the intuitiveness of the operation.
Citation Information
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