Moving a linked model in Revit can be done in a couple of ways, depending on whether you need a free, manual placement or a precise repositioning based on project specific points.
You can move a linked model by selecting it and using the standard Move command or by dragging it, or by utilizing specific right-click repositioning options like 'Reposition to Project Base Point'.
Methods for Moving a Linked Model
Revit provides flexibility when it comes to adjusting the position of a linked model within your host project. Here are the primary methods:
1. Standard Move (Dragging or Using the Move Command)
This is similar to moving any other element in Revit and is suitable for manual adjustments.
- Select the Linked Model: In a plan view or 3D view, simply click on the linked model instance to select it.
- Unpin (If Necessary): Linked models are often pinned by default to prevent accidental movement. If the linked model is pinned, you will see a pushpin icon when selected. Click the pushpin icon or use the Unpin tool on the Modify tab to unpin it.
- Drag: Click and drag the selected linked model to its desired new location.
- Use the Move Command: With the linked model selected, go to the Modify | RVT Links tab and click Move (or type the shortcut MV). Click a base point for the move and then click the destination point. You can use constraints like Ortho (for horizontal/vertical movement) or enter a distance.
This method offers quick, interactive placement.
2. Repositioning Using Right-Click Options
For more precise alignment based on predefined points, Revit offers repositioning tools accessed via the right-click menu.
- Select the Linked Model: Click the linked model instance in the drawing area.
- Right-Click: Right-click on the selected link.
- Choose a Repositioning Option: From the right-click menu, you can select from several repositioning options.
Based on the provided reference:
In the drawing area, select the linked model instance, right-click, and click one of the following options: Reposition to Project Base Point: Positions the RVT link using the model's Project Base Point as the insertion point, and aligns it to the Project Base Point in the host model.
Utilizing Reposition to Project Base Point aligns the linked model such that its internal Project Base Point coincides with the host model's Project Base Point. This is useful when both the host and linked files have their Project Base Points set up relative to a common real-world or project-specific coordinate.
Other repositioning options (depending on your Revit version and link type) might include:
- Reposition to Origin
- Reposition by Shared Coordinates
Choosing the appropriate repositioning method depends entirely on how the linked model and the host model were originally intended to align.
Summary Table
| Method | Description | Best Used For | Requires Unpinning? | Precision Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Move / Dragging | Select link, unpin (if needed), drag or use MV command. | Manual placement, quick adjustments. | Yes | Low to Medium |
| Reposition to Project Base Point | Select link, right-click, choose "Reposition to Project Base Point". | Aligning links based on Project Base Points. | No | High |
Always remember to consider pinning the linked model after moving it to prevent accidental future changes to its position.
