Video: Work with Parameters

Instance parameters and type parameters control aspects of all elements in a model.

This video demonstrates the following:

1. Change a type parameter of a window.
2. Change an instance parameter of a window.
3. Apply a constraint to a curtain wall using the parameter.

Note: This video was recorded using Revit 2011. When using a newer software release, you may notice differences in functionality and user interface.

Transcript

All objects in Revit have parameters that affect the object's behavior and description. ​

To modify an object, you change the parameters that describe the object, such as length, material, cost, and so on. You can edit an object by changing the instance parameters on the Properties palette, or by changing the type parameters in the Type Properties dialog. ​

In general, type parameters define all that is common between individual instances of the type. For example, you can change the Height parameter for all instances of a window type. ​

Instance parameters define all that can vary from instance to instance. For example, you can change the value for the Sill Height parameter for a single instance of a window type. ​

The parameter type indicates the format of the value it can contain, such as a distance, a string of text, or material information. A parameter can even refer to relationships to other elements in the model. For example, the curtain wall's Top Constraint parameter is set to a building level. ​

You can change some parameters directly in the Properties palette or Type Properties dialog, or by manipulating the object in the drawing area. In this case, the curtain wall's Top Offset parameter is changed by dragging the shape handle. ​

Parameters provide flexibility in defining, placing, and manipulating building objects. To meet project requirements, you can also add parameters to objects.