The Existing Trees tools in CS ArtisanRV enable landscape professionals to create and manage intelligent Revit-based tree survey data as part of a fully coordinated BIM workflow. Rather than treating surveyed trees as simple 2D symbols accompanied by separate schedules and notes, Existing Trees combine graphical representation and survey information within a single model element, creating a richer and more reliable source of project data.
Traditionally, tree surveys are supplied as CAD drawings containing plan symbols linked to schedules that describe each specimen's characteristics. In this approach, geometry and data exist separately, requiring manual coordination and increasing the risk of inconsistencies. Within a BIM environment, tree geometry and associated information are integrated into a single object, allowing plans, elevations, sections, schedules, reports, and quantities to be generated from a common source of truth.
CS ArtisanRV allows Existing Trees to be created either through manual placement or by importing survey data collected on site. Imported survey records can be used to automatically generate fully informed Revit tree families, significantly reducing the time required to model existing site conditions and improving the accuracy of project information.
To support a wide variety of survey formats, the Mapping utility enables imported survey fields to be associated with parameters within Existing Tree families. This allows survey data to populate tree geometry, dimensions, condition assessments, retention categories, root protection areas, and other attributes in accordance with BS 5837:2012 Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction. As a result, tree survey information becomes an integral part of the BIM model and can be referenced throughout the design and coordination process.
For maximum accuracy, projects can be geographically located so that trees are positioned automatically using the Easting and Northing coordinates supplied within the survey data. Where geographic coordinates are unavailable or a project has not yet been geolocated, a range of Placement Options allows users to position trees manually, including the ability to establish a known reference location from which other surveyed trees can be placed relative to that position.
Within this section of the Help system, you will learn how to:
By transforming tree survey information into intelligent BIM content, CS ArtisanRV helps landscape professionals improve accuracy, streamline project coordination, and ensure that existing trees remain a fully integrated part of the design, analysis, and documentation process.
Existing Trees are placed in 2D Plan View categorised by colour to denote quality and value in outline or shaded fill with accurate representation of tree canopies measured at four cardinal points. The Root Protection Area (RPA) is calculated based on the recorded stem diameter that is displayed as a dashed line around individual trees. Existing Trees are placed in 3D views and are sized automatically by dimensions recorded in the imported tree survey.
A default Existing Trees Schedule is created automatically when Existing Trees have been placed in the model.
Users have the option to initilly Place Selected Trees as 2D symbols only in order to speed up placement. This may be beneficial when dealing with a substantial number of trees or when an immediate plan view is required. Toggling off the "2D Only" instance parameter subsequently will switch on the 3D View properties.
The Object Browser shows a list view of Existing Trees in the model with associated parametric information and providing a quick view of individual or multiple instances for example by conditon.