ETL: Extract and Parse Revit Model Data to Structured Excel

This n8n workflow provides a foundational structure for extracting and parsing data from Revit models and outputting it into a structured Excel file. While the current JSON defines the basic building blocks, it hints at a powerful automation for AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) data processing.

What it does

This workflow, as defined, sets up the following steps:

1. Manual Trigger: Initiates the workflow manually, allowing for on-demand execution.
2. Execute Command: Placeholder for running a shell command. This is where the actual Revit model data extraction logic would reside, likely invoking a script or external tool to process .rvt files.
3. Conditional Logic (If): Allows for branching based on the outcome of previous steps. This could be used to check if the extraction was successful, if a specific file type was found, or other conditions.
4. Read Binary File: Placeholder for reading a binary file. This would likely be used to read the raw data extracted from the Revit model (e.g., a .json, .csv, or other intermediate file format).
5. Edit Fields (Set): Enables manipulation and transformation of the data. This is crucial for parsing the raw Revit data into a structured format suitable for Excel.
6. Spreadsheet File: Converts the processed data into a spreadsheet file (e.g., Excel or CSV). This is the final step for outputting the structured Revit data.
7. Sticky Note: Provides a descriptive note within the workflow for documentation or instructions.

Prerequisites/Requirements

• n8n instance: A running n8n instance to host and execute the workflow.
• Revit Model Data Extraction Tool/Script: An external tool or script (e.g., Python script using Revit API, Dynamo script, or a third-party application) capable of extracting data from Revit models and outputting it in a machine-readable format (e.g., JSON, CSV). This tool would be invoked by the "Execute Command" node.
• Understanding of Revit Data Structure: Knowledge of how Revit models store data will be essential for effectively parsing and structuring the extracted information.

Setup/Usage

1. Import the workflow: Import the provided JSON into your n8n instance.
2. Configure "Execute Command":
   • Edit the "Execute Command" node to include the command that triggers your Revit data extraction script/tool.
   • Ensure the script is accessible from where your n8n instance is running and has the necessary permissions.
3. Configure "Read Binary File":
   • Specify the path to the output file generated by your Revit data extraction script.
4. Configure "Edit Fields (Set)":
   • Define the transformations needed to parse the raw extracted data into the desired structured format for your Excel output. This will involve mapping fields, renaming properties, and potentially filtering data.
5. Configure "Spreadsheet File":
   • Set the desired file format (e.g., Excel .xlsx, CSV) and output options for your structured data.
6. Configure "If" node:
   • (Optional) Add conditions to the "If" node to handle different scenarios, such as successful extraction, errors, or specific data characteristics.
7. Execute the workflow: Click "Execute Workflow" in the "Manual Trigger" node to run the process.