Monitor Elements in a Linked Model

You can establish and monitor relationships between elements in the current model and a linked model without copying the elements to the current model.

When a monitored element changes, a warning message displays.

You establish relationships between pairs of corresponding elements. For example, select a grid line in the current model, and then select a grid line in the linked model to form a relationship between them. You cannot monitor unlike pairs, such as a grid line and a level. If you select an opening in a wall or floor, you can monitor other openings or inserts.

To monitor elements in a linked model without copying

  1. Open a model.
  2. Prepare a view:
    1. Open a view where you can see the elements to be monitored.
    2. In the view properties, for Discipline, select Coordination.

      This setting ensures that the view displays elements for all disciplines (architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical).

    3. Link the model into the current model.

      See Link One Model to Another.

    4. Pin the linked model in place, so that it cannot be moved inadvertently:
      • In the drawing area, select the linked model.
        Tip: Move the cursor over the linked model in the drawing area. When its boundary is highlighted, click to select it.
      • Click Modify RVT Links tabModify panel (Pin).
    5. (Optional) Display the linked model in halftone, so that you can distinguish its elements from elements in the current project.
  3. Click Collaborate tabCoordinate panelCopy/Monitor drop-down (Select Link), and select the linked model in the drawing area.
  4. Click Copy/Monitor tabTools panel (Monitor).
  5. Select an element in the current model.
  6. Select a corresponding element of the same type in the linked model.

    The monitor icon displays next to the element to indicate that it has a relationship with another element.

    An architectural column and a structural column (plan view) with a monitoring relationship

  7. Continue selecting as many element pairs as desired.
  8. Click Copy/Monitor tabCopy/Monitor panel (Finish).

If you modify one of the elements in a pair, a warning indicates that a monitored element has changed. These warnings also display in a coordination review.