Cable Sag Simulation in Revit Using Dynamic Control Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Revit modeling software lacks effective support for simulating cable sag in three-dimensional space, particularly in linear engineering, leading to inaccurate model representations and engineering quantity calculations.
Innovation Solution
A cable modeling method that acquires preset attributes and laying scenarios to determine start, end, and path points, using specific formulas to calculate sag based on suspension points and span length, and inputs these into Autodesk Revit to create a cable simulation model, allowing for accurate cable modeling and simulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If model lines or conduits are used to design and model cables in Revit, then the modeling process is simple, but the appearance deviates significantly from actual cable sag and engineering quantity accuracy is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the cable model flexible and adjustable rather than static. The cable simulation model dynamically adapts to different sag scenarios by modifying control points and parameters, allowing the model to reflect actual cable sag behavior while maintaining ease of creation through Revit's native tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by introducing sag control points and adjusting their positions to simulate different cable sag conditions. By modifying the coordinates and weights of control points, the model accurately represents various cable configurations without requiring complex external software.
2Manufacturing precision
If Dynamo software or secondary development is used to generate cable appearance, then cable sag simulation is achieved, but the model volume becomes too large and editing flexibility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential elements needed for cable sag simulation - specifically control points with adjusted coordinates and weights - rather than importing entire complex cable families. This selective extraction maintains sag accuracy while significantly reducing model volume and improving editability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of importing complex external cable models into Revit, the patent inverts the approach by creating simplified cable representations using Revit's native line or conduit tools, then adding sag characteristics through parameter adjustments. This reverses the traditional workflow to achieve both accuracy and simplicity.
3Manufacturing precision
If loadable family is imported into project model, then cable appearance with sag is generated, but component update linkage is not supported and cable type cannot be edited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal cable modeling approach that works with Revit's native line or conduit tools, making the method applicable to various cable types and scenarios without requiring separate family files. This multi-functional approach allows editing of cable properties while maintaining sag simulation capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable modeling method and system, and an electronic device are provided. The method includes: acquiring preset cable attributes of a cable and a preset laying scenario of the cable; determining a start point, an end point and a path point of the cable according to the preset laying scenario; inputting the preset attributes of the cable, the start point, the end point, and the path point into an Autodesk Revit software to model the cable, thereby to obtain a cable simulation model; and laying the cable according to the cable simulation model. The method first determines a start point, an end point, and the path point of the cable through the preset laying scenario, and then inputs the preset attributes, the start point, the end point, and the path point into the Autodesk Revit software to model the cable, so as to obtain a cable simulation model.