What are the various keyboard shortcuts in Revit and how useful are they?

Autodesk Revit is an essential tool for architects, engineer, designers and contractors. Its use as a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software is crucial for those involved in Virtual design and construction. However, a tool is only as good as its user and the full power of Revit can only be unleashed with a better understanding of its several functions which can be done through online revit training.

Picking up and starting Revit is quite simple enough and maintaining functionality is possible when you know its shortcuts. Keyboard shortcuts don’t make use of the Enter key and they appear in the tooltips when the mouse is hovered over a function. Using keyboard shortcuts is an intuitive approach to Revit use and understanding the fundamentals would jumpstart your projects.

Shortcuts related to Element Selection

Initially, you will need to know element selection shortcuts. Shortcuts will lessen time selecting several areas, saving time during long and complex projects. Following are the element selections:

·         Shift + an arrow key will nudge a selected element 10 times

·         Arrow keys, alone, will nudge a selected element once

·         CTRL will select multiple elements

·         TAB will cycle through overlapping elements

·         Shift + TAB will reverse the TAB cycle’s order

Shortcuts related to Element Creation

Creating and placing elements takes more time, however, harnessing Revit shortcut tools will lessen overall effort when creating multiple detail lines, doors and properties. CAD Forum hosts outstanding element creation topics, creating an environment Revit users can discuss creation tactics in. Your element creation shortcuts are vital for multi layered projects and they are as following:

·         M + Spacebar will match element properties

·         C + S will create a new, similar element when one is previously selected

·         D + L will generate detail lines

·         D + R will generate a door

·         M + V will move

·         U + P will unpin an element

·         R + M will generate a room

·         R + T will create and insert a room tag

·         S + L will split selected elements

Look for Shortcuts

Navigating through several elements in a view can be difficult; however, several shortcut key combinations will speed up the process.

·         H + H will hide a selected element

·         H + I will isolate a selected element

·         H + C will hide categories

·         T + L will switch to thin lines

·         S + D will switch to shaded with edges

·         W + F will change an element to wireframe mode

·         V + V will generate graphics dialog for a current view

·         Z + E will zoom the project to fit

Creating Personalised Shortcuts

Every project’s requirements are different; however, Revit’s remarkable flexibility can create a highly personalised space. By creating ‘quick actions’, you can program your own Revit shortcuts for the processes your project demands the most. Custom Revit commands are quite helpful resources and their overall utility enhances project creation speed while creating a truly comfortable environment. A single command might be tailored to execute multiple shortcuts, also single shortcuts might be accessed through multiple commands.

Grey Edge’s Authorised Training and Recruitment Centre offer state of art online CAD training to those who have a tight schedule and cannot attend classroom trainings. The Centre, best known for providing outstanding online Revit training is equipped with exceptional facilities, outstanding Autodesk certified faculties and learning environment for its students. Do visit www.grey-edge.com to know more.

What is the role of a BIM Expert within a Building pre construction design Company?

Several companies in the AEC sector have now started adopting Building Information Modelling (BIM). They are also trying to hire professionals’ proficient with BIM who are able to perform the new tasks this technology has introduced. The first step for companies to acquire those specialists is to write their job descriptions, listing their particular tasks. Higher education institutions offering AutoCAD courses in Mumbai would be interested in this same information, as they require adaptation of their curricula to meet this demand, as soon as possible. 

Some studies have found that the companies using BIM technologies are finding difficulties, such as, the lack of communication between those involved in the design and construction. The companies need to recognize the requirement for a new professional in the application of BIM technology, standards and modelling, that’s also responsible for the special coordination in BIM projects. Thus, there needs to be a special role in the project team, i.e. of the BIM Manager. In design firms, the BIM Manager can be a chief BIM Officer or a Project Model Manager who is also known as Modelling Manager.

Role & Responsibility of BIM Expert

Several AEC companies have different BIM experts or specialists, each designated with a particular set of responsibilities which are given below. In practice, a professional might execute the tasks of one or more of the specialists depending on the project and the company size he/she is working for.

BIM Modeller: The primary role of a BIM Modeller is to create, develop and extract 2D documentation from BIM models. The BIM Modeller might occupy the position of the Draftsperson, but not always does a CAD specialist undergoing an online CAD training course become the reverse, because the more experienced CAD users are the more resistant to change. The BIM Modeller can have the following additional denominations, depending on his/her emphasis. 3D Modeller, Sequencing Modeller, Cost Modeller and Detailing Modeller. The 3D Modeller for instance creates the geometry in BIM models working in teams for developing varied parts of the model.

BIM Analyst: BIM Analyst’s role is to execute analysis and simulations based on the BIM model, for instance, building performance analysis, circulation and security analysis. This expert can work in design firms, primarily MEP, and also as a Design Consultant.

BIM Manager: The BIM Manager works within the company and is accountable for coordinating the team and the production & use of the model. He/she might also serve various additional functions such as setting up design templates, coordinating the integration of entity models, coordinating the access to the model, etc.

Emphasizing on the roles of BIM specialists, above are some of the positions and roles a BIM expert can perform in an AEC company. BIM consultants and BIM Managers have a vital role in an organisation and are mainly accountable for the implementation or BIM execution plan.

Challenges of BIM Manager

Build information modelling (BIM) is evolving at a rapid pace as more and more companies begin to adopt and utilise BIM for their projects. From the conceptual stage, through to design, implementation and the entire project lifecycle, BIM facilitates better decision making. The new BIM concept guarantees faster project building, improved communication and better problem solving, all whilst being more cost effective than the earlier versions.

When BIM was introduced in the architectural world, it was challenging for the companies to incorporate BIM due to unskilled professionals, who had little or no experience to work on BIM. As it gained popularity and with increasing number of companies realising its worth, the demand for having a BIM manager superseded all other requirements. Prime prospect of a BIM manager is understanding how and when to apply different BIM workflows in projects.

Few years back the construction industry witnessed an evolution of CAD Managers becoming BIM Managers, a transition which was necessary for advancement of BIM processes. The fundamental role of a BIM Manager remained similar to that of a CAD Manager – ensuring timely delivery of the projects without exceeding the budget constraints. But it was the core responsibilities that were more importantly redefined which included maintaining coordination of modelling work, maintaining the integrity within the project and reporting and managing the BIM process. However, a BIM Manager’s role was not limited to such tasks; it had to cover larger avenues than just managing the BIM related tools and software. The role demanded them to be more versatile and quick thinkers so as to adapt to the ever changing work environment. They had to ensure seamless coordination with the companies who do not utilise BIM at the same time maintain integrity of the models used in the project.

What helped BIM Managers to flourish was the acceptance of BIM as an industry standard over the world with governments beginning to mandate BIM in their projects resulting in BIM becoming a pre-requisite for major tenders. Industry professionals soon realised the ability of BIM was to significantly reduce cost and increase the over-all quality of the work. But the BIM Manager’s role demands quick learning because of the ever evolving construction and architecture industry especially in the past decade. Listed below are three prime challenges faced by BIM Managers:

1. People Management – 

The digital 3D BIM model facility requires specially trained personnel as the processes change constantly and therefore the contracts need to be updated accordingly. The role of a BIM Manager had to grow parallel to such an evolution of construction industry and with the acceptance of BIM. The BIM manager’s role is that of a multipurpose one in the construction industry at present. In BIM-supported construction projects the BIM Manager’s role is responsible for defining the roles and responsibilities, imparting knowledge, instilling trust amongst the team members and facilitating and fostering effective, supportive team culture.

2. Defining Policies - 

The BIM Managers must define clear technical policies which would form the base for the model development and exchange. A BIM Manager must be able to lay down clear policies on the project guidelines and contracts, the building standards of the respective region, the responsibility of deliverables and intellectual properties and risk and insurance implication during the duration of the project.

3. Technological Outlook – 

The fast and ever evolving construction industry demands new technologies to be imparted into the processes to keep pace with the competition or to overtake it. A BIM Manager must define an appropriate and cost effective hardware and software set up for utmost utilisation of 3D models, which would further enhance the data exchange, data storage and overall data management. A BIM Manager must also take charge of certification of suitable hardware and software, defining data structures and user specific workspaces and most importantly ensure uninterrupted high speed internet connectivity.

A BIM Manager’s role and challenges are not limited to the above specified ones but traverse the vast boundaries of the entire BIM process. There is no specific course that can train an individual to become a BIM manager, but there are a few leading training centers that provide online Revit training and AutoCAD courses in Mumbai, which can lead individuals to gain professional knowledge on BIM which can assist them in becoming successful BIM Managers.

Top 6 must have skills to survive in AEC industry

The AEC industry is fast evolving and has seen a phenomenal rise in the past decade. The economic uprise, new technologies, demand for better results and work force challenges are few of the factors that have led to the rise to these changes. However, in spite of this evolution, industry organisations are trying to find ways to improve the efficiency in the AEC processes and technology which will lead to increased profit margins enabling them to provide cost effective solutions to their clients.

All these factors present a promising future for the AEC industry and the related organisations and can guarantee that the competition will be fierce. To stay updated with the latest trends and developments of the industry, it is essential for individuals who work in the AEC industry to continue to learn and develop their skill sets. There are many institutes that provide online CAD training for working professionals, with updated courses that teach them the latest essential skills that are required. There are also many other skills that individuals working in the AEC industry must possess and learn in order to survive in the industry. 

Let us discuss 6 such skills necessary to survive in the AEC industry –

1. Design Mindset: Having a design mindset does not only mean you must have the ability to design but you must also be able to understand the proposed designs. Across all the platforms in the AEC industry, professionals come across various design drawings which require acute understanding and diligent work to suggest any alterations. 

2. Adaptive and Analytical Thinking: AEC industry is an industry which requires professionals to have certain skills along with vast technical knowledge so that it enables them to come up with unique and quick solutions for the expected or unexpected situations encountered during the project activities. They have access to all the latest technology, but it is their own analytical thinking powers that will provide them with the ability to come up with unique solutions.

3. Region Specific Knowledge: Across the globe, various countries have mandated laws for the AEC industry which are specific to their regions. This is one of the most important skills required for an individual working in the AEC industry, to have knowledge about these laws applicable to respective counties, which enables them to design the projects abiding the law.

4. Transdisciplinary: The AEC industry is vast one in itself, but it does help immensely if an individual working in this industry possesses knowledge or is at least familiar with interrelated disciplines along with having insightful understanding in the field that they are aligned towards. 

5. Cross Cultural Competency: The current AEC industry is an evolved one and the operations of companies are more often than not spread across the globe, which is companies doing business in various countries. In such a scenario, it is valuable to be able to work with people with different linguistics from various cultures, who possess a variety of skills and different working styles.

6. Computational Thinking: Any industry in this age has to deal with a large amount of data, the AEC industry is not an exemption to this rule. With increased data, it is necessary to have the ability to manage and make decisions based on the vast amount of information provided. Individuals who have good decision making abilities when it comes to data management, hold an edge in the AEC industry, as it is definitely a bonus.

Although there are various other skills that one must possess to survive in the AEC industry, these are few of the key ones. Individuals can learn on the job and with experience, their abilities are enhanced. However, to learn new technologies the best solution is by learning from an institute which specialise in teaching courses related to the AEC industry. Especially for working professionals. There are various Autodesk Revit Online Training Courses that are available through leading training institutes, that are time saving as the courses can be learned online.

Do I need to learn AutoCAD before learning Revit?

AutoCAD is an original Autodesk product, developed and sold by Autodesk. Revit was created by a small start-up company and was acquired by Autodesk over a decade ago. Since acquiring, Autodesk has enhanced Revit in several significant ways and along the way has even incorporated some features from AutoCAD. However, there are huge differences between the functions and tools of AutoCAD and many find it wise to learn it before learning Revit through online Revit training.

Revit is a computer-aided design and drafting tool that replaces the requirement for conventional drafting boards and methods. Revit is a modelling tool designed to create virtual simulations of building design projects on the computer. Similar to the physical models created by architects, Revit models are useful for design and visualization. However, computer models can go much further than conventional physical models. Initially, they can be created more rapidly and often more precisely. A single model can be used to generate any kind of drawing from plan to section to 3D view.

In addition, they can contain much more than physical 3D geometry. Everything, right from the properties of the materials used in the design to the performance and lifecycle of the facility can be included in the model and used in real time computations to optimize building performance, safety and function. The more nongraphical information that’s included, the more useful the model becomes to the other participants in the design and life cycle of a building facility including engineers, designers, contractors, subcontractors and owners. 

Such models are known as Building Information Models or BIM in the industry. BIM is not a specific product, but instead a description of the process and intent of the deliverables used to describe, construct and even maintain a facility. It’s thus possible to deliver BIM with any tool, even AutoCAD. For this one needs to undergo online CAD training to master AutoCAD. Revit is built in purpose to the task, however, and more suitable in nearly all ways. That being said, most companies continue to use a variety of tools in the design and production of building facilities. This proves that Revit and AutoCAD are often used side by side on similar project.

There are several ways wherein both software platforms can be used together. AutoCAD drawings can be included into Revit projects and even refreshed to show the latest changes when the AutoCAD file changes. One can export Revit projects to a number of file formats, including AutoCAD drawings, for easy partnership with outside firms not using Revit.

Grey Edge’s Authorised Training and Recruitment Centre offer state of art online CAD training to those who have a tight schedule and cannot attend classroom trainings. The Centre, best known for providing outstanding online Revit training is equipped with exceptional facilities, outstanding Autodesk certified faculties and learning environment for its students. Do visit www.grey-edge.com to know more.

The Real World of Online CAD Education

Online associate degree programs in CAD are seldom, however, not impossible to locate. One can complete these programs in a span of 1 to 2 years. There are some programs that one can finish totally online, whilst others demand for online CAD training in addition to an internship. As their programs involve a lot of technicality, students must be extremely careful to ensure that their computers meet school standards. They might need to purchase special software for the course. With associate’s degree programs in CAD, students get trained in many computer drafting software programs. In this program, students generally learn to read blueprints and understand electronic schematics. They could also learn about injection plastic moulding systems as sheet metal parts and ducting. 

Several domains such as architecture, product design, manufacturing, animation and computer gaming apply CAD techniques. A higher degree than the associate’s level is required for some of these career options. Credits earned in an online associate’s degree program can generally be applied to a bachelor’s degree program. Those who graduate through these degree programs can earn certification through numerous professional organizations.

All about CAD Education

Several drafters enter the AEC industry after getting certificates in computer aided drafting and design, however, some pursue an associate in science or associate in applied science.  Online programs do exist, but aren’t extensive. Many are built around one or two particular computer programs, however most offer exposure to a variety of software applications. Certain transfer programs let students with college experience to gain credits for courses completed at other places.

Students usually learn drafting concepts and develop conventional mechanical skills prior to moving on to computer applications that could include AutoCAD, Revit, Pro/Engineer, etc. Architecture, animation or mechanics, the premiere areas in this field have computer applications designed particularly for their technical requirements.

Information and Requirements about CAD Education

Associate in applied science programs need 40-50 semester credits in technical courses and another 20-30 credits in general education courses. The program can take 2to 4 full time semesters to finish. Extra specializations in specific software applications or content areas might need another semester or two of enrolment. For online programs, students usually need to use a computer having good multimedia capabilities and a high speed internet connection. This makes sure that students can view lectures, finish assignments and communicate with teachers. Some CAD applications might be compatible with only Mac or Windows, students must validate system requirements with their host schools before investing in new equipment. Conventional drafting tools are generally required, but might be covered by course fees.

Grey Edge’s Authorised Training and Recruitment Centre offer state of art online CAD training to those who have a tight schedule and cannot attend classroom trainings. The Centre is equipped with exceptional facilities, outstanding Autodesk certified faculties and learning environment for its students. Do visit www.grey-edge.com to know more.

Role of Revit in Developing Building Information Modelling Services

Revit purchased by Autodesk is a highly important software for the design development of multidiscipline building trades. After this highly result oriented software product was acquired by Autodesk, it made several alterations in it and released its several versions in the market. The software was launched by Autodesk in the year 2005, and this discipline of Revit is completely dedicated towards the empowerment of structural engineers and modellers when it comes to creating design for structural framework. Revit structure is integrated with high end structural modelling tools, which are effectually optimized by modelers during structural modelling.

Straight away after the release of Revit Structure, Autodesk launched Revit MEP in the year 2006. This specific Revit discipline was developed by Autodesk for the assistance of MEP engineers and modelers, when it comes to the execution of MEP modelling services. With the help of Revit MEP, modellers can create highly parametric 3D models for representing the design of MEP systems. On the contrary, Revit architecture came into the picture after the release of Revit structure and Revit MEP. Revit architecture was previously known as Revit building, and this specific Revit flavour is developed by Autodesk for empowering architects in enhancing their productivity.

If you consider the current building trends across architectural engineering and construction industry, development of 3D models for architecture, structure and MEP prior to the actual construction have become mandatory. This is because: 3D parametric model offers greater design clarity to design and construction professionals which is essential for seamless construction. Revit possesses highly unusual tools such as Revit Family Editor and Project Environment which assist engineers, architects and modellers in developing high quality families and superior 3D models for architecture, structure and MEP.

Since parametric models are developed by design and construction professionals for different building trades, it becomes exceptionally simple for them to implement change in the models. Another vital thing is that if in case a change is made by a modeller in 3D model, its entire design automatically gets updated. In this way superior BIM modelling services are provided to clients with the support of different Revit flavours. Today, in India, there are various institutes offering online Revit training to acquire the knowledge of Revit which plays an important role in developing BIM models.

Grey Edge's leading Revit and CAD training centre constantly strives to offer the best online CAD training to the aspirant. Backed by experienced and well trained faculty and the best infrastructure, including online and classroom tutorials, we offer the best Revit and CAD training in India.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a CAD Training Centre in Mumbai

Whilst having highlighted the significance and necessity of receiving training from a professional CAD centre in our previous blog post, we would now like to discuss the factors that need to be considered before enrolling yourself in any professional CAD training centre in Mumbai.

Faculty with Real World Knowledge:

It is extremely important to get trained from faculties having software expertise and hands-on industry experience.   The instructors with training certification from Autodesk use their knowledge to constantly improve courses. They also understand how the AutoCAD courses in Mumbai fit into the working practices of the company, thus making students industry-ready.

Proficiency-Based Courses and Training Flexibility:

A good training centre usually has comprehensive courses for every level of users-beginner, intermediate and advanced. This will help students with little or no knowledge to select courses according to their requirements.  In addition to this, well-structured institutes offer flexibility in the type of training offered, including classroom training, virtual training and instructor-led training. Such flexibility makes learning very convenient for the students and professionals. 

Professional Training Certification:

Training centres offering a professional certificate on clearing the exam and completing the course are more preferable over the ones not providing it.  Professional certification including Autodesk Certification is a critical asset for design professionals as it is a validation of your skills and expertise. It is a well-known and industry recognized credential that can help students to enhance their career and credibility. 

Live Projects Training:

Well-structured training institutes have an appropriate mix of theory, knowledge and real-world projects training. The live projects training enable students to get hands-on experience whilst exposing them to practical challenges that are faced when working on industry projects.  This goes a long way in bridging the skills gap between students and industry. 

At the Grey Edge, we constantly strive to be equipped with all the above mentioned features. Backed by Autodesk-accredited instructors, extensive experience and burgeoning technology, we are well placed to serve students and professionals seeking training in architectural, engineering and construction domains. We also provide online CAD training for students and professionals.

More importantly, our courses curriculum is carefully designed keeping in mind the changing industry requirements. If you want to know more about our training centre, please visit www.grey-edge.com.
 

Key Reasons to Enrol Yourself in an Online CAD Training

Like any other student who is pursuing a full-time degree course in architectural design, engineering, building construction, mechanical engineering, and interior design, you are apprehensive of enrolling yourself Online CAD training offered by various CAD training centres. Do I really need to get professional training in CAD and BIM? Will the course be beneficial to me? Will it give me an added advantage over others? These are some of the many questions that surround students wishing to pursue a career in the AEC industry.

Whilst we find answers to the above questions, let’s accept the fact that the AEC industry has become very competitive. As graduates just entering the industry workforce, students require every bit of an advantage that will distinguish them from the pool of other similar candidates.  Also, there exists a huge difference between the skills an industry expects from a graduate and the one that a fresh graduate without any professional training possesses. The professional CAD training centre offering comprehensive courses aims to bridge this gap between students and the industry.

Despite having studied CAD programs and BIM applications as part of the university curriculum, the need for professional training in CAD, BIM or Visualization courses still persists.  Whilst the university just introduces the concept and provides a brief overview, the hands-on knowledge on how these programs fit into the project workflows of several disciplines can be learnt at the CAD training centre.

More importantly, the live project training at the professional training centre exposes student to the real world challenges and enables them to get hands-on knowledge of working on industry projects. With this type of live project training, the students get a chance to implement the concepts they have learnt, thus enhancing their knowledge.

Besides, some of the professional CAD training centre offers professional certification which is an industry validation of your skills and credentials. The certificate adds to your portfolio and enhances your chances of acceptance within the highly intense market. Consequently, the multiple benefits that a student gets including real-world experience and in-depth software knowledge makes learning from  a professional CAD training centre extremely important.

If you are a student who has just completed your formal education and are looking to boost your technical skills, XS CAD’s Training Centre provides AutoCAD Courses in Mumbai. We are an Autodesk-accredited facility offering comprehensive training courses for all skill levels. The training is provided by qualified instructors who have hands-on experience on working on the industry projects. For more information about us, please visit www.xscadtraining.com.