Import Model Lines (RFA)

Import Rhino curves as Model Lines visible when families load in projects. Preserves native curve types for better performance.

What It Does

Import Model Lines converts Rhino curves into Revit Model Lines that stay visible when you load your family into a project. Unlike Reference Lines (construction geometry), Model Lines are detail linework that appears in views.

The command preserves native curve types (lines, arcs, circles, ellipses) for better performance and smaller file size.

When to Use This

Use Import Model Lines (RFA) when:

  • Creating detail components that need visible linework
  • Building families with decorative or annotation curves
  • Importing curves that should be visible when the family is placed in projects
  • Creating families with graphic elements

For construction geometry that shouldn't be visible, use Import Reference Lines (RFA) instead.

How to Use

Step 1: Open a Family Document

  • Launch Revit
  • Open an existing family or create a new one
  • Make sure you're in a family document

Step 2: Import Curves

  • Click Import Model Lines (RFA) in the Rhino to Revit Family panel
  • Select your 3DM file containing curves
  • Choose which layers to import from the selection dialog
  • Click OK to start conversion

Step 3: Review Results

After import completes, you'll see:

  • Conversion statistics: Total curves, successful conversions, any skipped/failed curves
  • Curve type breakdown: Lines, arcs, circles, ellipses, polylines, and splines created
  • Processing time: Conversion duration

The imported Model Lines appear in your family and will be visible when you load the family into projects.

Supported Curve Types

The command automatically detects and converts:

  • Lines: Straight curves → Revit lines
  • Arcs: Arc curves → Revit arcs
  • Circles: Circular curves → Revit circles
  • Ellipses: Elliptical curves → Revit ellipses
  • Polylines: Multi-segment lines → Individual line segments
  • Splines: Complex curves → Revit splines

Difference from Reference Lines

Feature Model Lines (RFA) Reference Lines (RFA)
Visibility Visible in projects Construction geometry only
Purpose Detail linework Parametric construction
When placed Appears in all views Hidden in projects
Use case Graphics, details Dimensions, constraints

Troubleshooting

Command is grayed out

Issue: Button is disabled

Cause: Not in a family document

Solution: Open or create a family document first

Some curves missing after import

Issue: Not all curves imported

Cause: Curves may be too short, too long, or invalid

Solution:

  • Check that curves are valid in Rhino
  • Verify layer selection includes the curves you want
  • Review conversion results dialog for skip/fail reasons

Model Lines not visible in project

Issue: Can't see curves after placing family

Cause: View settings may hide Model Lines category

Solution:

  • Check View Settings → Model Categories
  • Ensure "Model Lines" category is enabled
  • Verify the appropriate detail level is active

Curves look simplified

Issue: Curves appear less detailed than in Rhino

Cause: Complex curves converted to splines with default point density

Solution: This is expected for complex curves - the conversion balances accuracy with performance

Tips

  • Layer organization: Organize curves by layer in Rhino before import for easier selection
  • Native curves are better: The command automatically uses native Revit curve types when possible for best performance
  • Check visibility: After placing family in a project, verify Model Lines category is visible in your views
  • Use for details: Model Lines are ideal for detail components, decorative elements, and graphic linework
  • Not for construction: Use Reference Lines for parametric construction geometry that drives family behavior
  • Import Reference Lines (RFA): For construction geometry that doesn't appear in projects
  • Import Model Lines (RVT): For importing curves directly into project documents
  • Import Solids (RFA): For importing 3D solid geometry into families