In coordination to the Ideate Inc. YouTube video on Autodesk Revit Architecture 2013 – Component-based Stairs, this blog describes how the Revit Architecture 2013 Stair tool has undergone a few improvements. In addition to the Stair Sketch tools from previous Revit versions, a new Component based stair is now available. Component stairs refer to the new Assembled Stair system family. These new types of stair families consist of a number of sub families that represent parts of the stair such as the run type, landing type, stringer support types and even the cut mark type. Collectively these families form a component stair family.
Some of the new functionality with component stairs includes the ability to create stair runs that can dynamically be previewed as 3D elements during sketch mode. Additionally, you can specify to create the run based upon a Location Line that allows you to draw the run on the left, center or right side of the run. (Figure 1)
Figure 1
In previous releases the sketching of stair runs automatically created landings. In the Revit 2013 release, landings can also be created automatically or added after laying out the stair runs, and as with runs can be viewed dynamically in 3D views during the sketching process.
With the creation of Component Stairs, new stair shapes are available when placing stair runs. These include spiral stairs that have angles greater than 360°, curved stairs of angles less than 360°, L-shaped winder stairs, and U-turn/switchback winder stairs. (Figure 2). The ability of creating stairs with angles greater than 360°, gives you the ability of creating stairs that overlap other runs, something that could not be accomplished in earlier releases.
Figure 2
A Precast Stair family is now available within Revit Architecture 2013 that allows you to specify how runs of stair attach to a landing. Notches can be applied to the run where the run stops at a landing and a run can also include a notch at the top of the run representing real building methods. (Figure 3)
Figure 3
In addition to the above items, Revit Architecture 2013 Stair elements now support the creation of stairs that include multiple runs leading to the same or different levels. Through the use of standard modifying tools such as Move, Mirror, Copy and Rotate, runs can be manipulated and Landings modified to support multiple stair runs. (Figure 4)
Figure 4
These are only a few of the things that can be accomplished with the Revit Architecture 2013 Stair tools. I challenge you to roll up your sleeves and start looking at the type properties and nested families that are used within the Component Stairs. As you are learning these new tools, the original sketching tools are also still available to make your transitioning toward using these new tools easier. Have Fun!
Don’t forget to look through other great features our Ideate Technical Team has found in the new 2013 releases for Revit MEP, Revit Structure, Civil 3D, AutoCAD, Navisworks, 3ds Max Design and more: ideateinc.com/2013
Ron Palma AEC Solutions Application Specialist
Ron has 23+ years of experience in the AEC industry as a designer, lead project designer, trainer and CAD manager. His instructional background includes Autodesk Certified Instructor, trainer, support technician, educator at Portland Community College and Clackamas Community College, and a U.S. Army certified instructor. Follow Ron @RonPalmaAEC.
