Not just an update: The all-new Be.Smart Cut Opening for Revit 

Why a completely new version? 

While the previous version of Cut Opening served users well, your feedback highlighted key areas for improvement — especially around workflow efficiency. Many users pointed out that relying on Revit’s Interference Check and managing import/export files added unnecessary steps. This became particularly frustrating when only a few new MEP elements were added to large projects. 

Another common challenge was the time-consuming process of reviewing and updating existing openings after MEP or structural changes. 

So, we went back to the drawing board and rebuilt Cut Opening from the ground up to deliver: 

• A fully streamlined workflow 

• Fewer manual steps — no more file juggling 

• A modern, redesigned interface 

• A future-ready foundation for powerful new features 

Important note for Existing Users 

Before diving into the updates, please take a moment to read this: 

• The new version of Cut Opening is not compatible with openings inserted using the previous version. 

• To use the new version on an older project, you must either delete the previously used Cut Opening families from the project or change their category from “Generic Models” to any other category. Possible suggestions: Structural Connections, Mechanical Equipment.

• The update is available via ARKANCE Dock for Revit versions 2023–2025. 

• If you’re continuing work on an ongoing project using the old Cut Opening, do not update yet. 

• If you've already updated and need to revert, please contact us via our support portal to request the previous installation files. 

• The new version comes with default configurations. To keep using your existing custom configurations, simply point the new Cut Opening to their location via the Settings button. 

New interface highlights 

One of the first things you'll notice is the redesigned toolbar.

• Insert Openings is now the main command. It launches a centralized control panel that manages the entire opening lifecycle - from clash detection to revisions. 

• Delete functions are now clearly separated into three distinct types, each affecting only the elements inserted using the new version of Cut Opening. 

• Configuration rules are easily accessible via the Configs button, and file paths can be managed directly through Settings. 

Note: Configuration structures remain unchanged, so you can continue using your existing setups without rework. 

A new centralized workflow 

All opening generation and revision steps now take place within a single, unified interface—eliminating the need to switch between windows. 

This centralized approach streamlines your entire process, from clash detection to final revisions, while giving you greater control and visibility at every step. 

In the images below, you'll see the Insert Openings menu, along with tooltips that explain the function of each option.  

This visual guide gives you a quick overview of how to navigate the new interface and understand the purpose behind each command. 

Step-by-Step Workflow

1. Open the opening management table  

Navigate to the desired Revit view. Begin by clicking Find Clashes to detect potential openings. 

2.Choose opening families [1 , 2] 

• Use Solid families to insert visible solids indicating openings. 

• Use regular families to generate actual voids in the model. 

3.Select configurations [3] 

If you already have configuration files from the previous version, simply point the new tool to their location using the Settings panel. 

4.Define clash categories [5]

Use the Clash Settings button to specify which elements are “Hosts” (e.g., walls, floors) and which are “Cutting Elements” (e.g., ducts, pipes). 

5.Find clashes [6] 

Automatically detects intersections based on your settings. You can limit the search to the visible area or selected elements for faster results. You can filter through clashes via the selection tree that is visible on the left side of the table. It can be grouped by: 

• Host (H) representing the structure  

• Cutting Element (C.E.) representing the MEP elements 

• Openings - viable after the initial insertion 

6.Insert openings [8] 

By default, all visible clashes in the table will be converted to openings. You can also insert only selected entries. The inserted openings will appear under the “Created Openings” category in the tree view. 

7.Revise and apply changes [7, 9] 

If element changes affect previously created openings, simply run “Revise Openings” in the active view. With one click, you can update all impacted openings—without leaving the interface. 

Improved opening families 

The updated opening families bring both visual and functional upgrades: 

• Adjustable detail views for more control over how openings are represented 

• Size increment options for rounding dimensions according to project standards  

• In-plan geometry handles for quick and easy manual resizing 

• Elevation parameters: Top, Center, and Bottom levels now visible in all openings. 

These upgrades make your opening data clearer, more consistent, and construction-ready. 

What’s next? 

These updates are just the beginning. By rebuilding Cut Opening from the ground up, we’ve created a strong foundation for continuous improvement. The new version opens the door to future improvements, such as: 

• Support for additional clash categories, such as fabrication elements. 

• Further UI simplifications and workflow enhancements based on user feedback. 

We want your feedback 

We’re committed to evolving Cut Opening based on your needs. Tell us how the new version is working for you through our quick 2-step feedback portal. 

Your insights help us fine-tune the tool, align it with your day-to-day challenges, and build smarter solutions — together.  

Transformation takes a team. We're your people.