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The utilization of RVT files in GIS is a key technology drawing significant attention in recent years to realize the integration of BIM and GIS. This enables the visualization, analysis, and sharing of architectural models within a three-dimensional geospatial context.
This article provides a clear explanation, covering everything from the basic overview of RVT files to the method of converting RVT data into the 3D Tiles format using GISBox.
What are RVT Files?
RVT files are the project file format used by Autodesk's Revit software, playing a central role as BIM (Building Information Modeling) data.
RVT files integratively store the following types of information:
3D geometry of buildings
Component attributes and design parameters
Drawings, sections, and view information
Multi-disciplinary design data such as architectural, structural, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)
Revit is characterized by parametric design, where modifications to the model are propagated throughout the entire project. Therefore, it is widely used across the entire lifecycle of a building, including design, construction, and facility management. In Japan, adoption is progressing, particularly among architectural firms, general contractors, and MEP engineering companies.
Use Cases for RVT in GIS
Integrating RVT data with GIS enables applications such as:
Urban Modeling & City Planning: Integrating RVT models with geographic information allows for use in urban-scale landscape studies, facility placement planning, traffic simulations, and more.
Indoor Navigation & Facility Management: Incorporating the hierarchical structure and floor plan information from RVT into GIS makes indoor wayfinding and visualization for equipment maintenance management possible.
Disaster Simulation & Emergency Response: Combining building structural information with GIS analysis aids in disaster impact assessment, evacuation planning, and resource allocation.
Cultural Property & Historic Building Preservation: Digitizing historic structures with RVT and managing/visualizing them in GIS can be utilized for conservation, restoration, and virtual exhibitions.
Infrastructure & Equipment Management: Integrating MEP models with subsurface utility data can aid in construction coordination and infrastructure health management.
Steps to Convert RVT to 3D Tiles (using GISBox)
① Launch GISBox and Create a Conversion Task
Start GISBox, navigate to the "Tiling" menu, select "RVT", and create a new conversion task.
② Add RVT File(s)
Add the locally saved .rvt file(s).
③ Configure Spatial Reference
The default spatial reference system is EPSG:4326 (WGS84).
The "Origin" is set as the reference point for placing the RVT model in 3D space.
④ Performance Optimization Settings
Adjust rendering performance and data transmission using the following options:
⑤ Publish as a Service
After completing the settings, check the "Publish as Service" box to have it automatically registered as a "3DTiles" under the "Service" section.
⑥ Preview in Cesium
Click the "Cesium" preview to immediately view the model in a web browser.
⑦ Utilizing the Service URL
The generated service URL can be copied and directly integrated into Cesium-based applications or digital twin projects.
Summary
As core BIM data, RVT files deliver high value in diverse fields such as urban planning, disaster management, facility management, and digital twins when integrated with GIS.
This article organized the overview and use cases of RVT files and provided a systematic explanation of the RVT to 3D Tiles conversion process using GISBox, including configuration options, performance optimization, and service publication.
This workflow enables the efficient visualization and sharing of BIM models in web environments, further accelerating their application in smart cities and digital twin domains.
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