Model Text versus Complex Fonts

"Model text is a work plane-based 3D element that you can use for signs or lettering on a building or wall." - Autodesk Knowledge Network

This Revit Recess Entry will demonstrate what happens with complex fonts once we drastically decrease the size of a Model Text font.

Basic or simple fonts such as Arial Narrow rarely cause problems when decreasing the font size, as per the image below:

However, when more complex fonts are used, like Mistral, one can clearly see a regression in the font appearance at sizes of approximately 50mm and below. The question is: Why?

When we look at the model text from a 3D view, one can clearly see many different faces that is required to create the curvature of each letter. 

The smaller the text, the smaller these faces will become. Remember that Revit has a minimum element size of 0.8mm. In other words, if a face becomes thinner than 0.8mm, Revit will not be able to create it.