IFC Interoperability Tips

The increasing complexity of modern construction projects has identified the growing need for enhanced collaboration and interoperability within the (BIM) framework.

Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) play a pivotal role by establishing a standardised data exchange format, facilitating interoperability among diverse BIM software applications such as Revit and Sketchup.

To meet this expectation for effective communication of complex 3D models, Archicad’s improved IFC interoperability has developed to provide increased control for all collaborators.

This post focuses on IFC interoperability between Archicad and Autodesk Revit

CAUTION > Large or cluttered IFC files will reduce the performance of an Archicad file. It is critical to verify that the complexity of the model is suitable prior to any IFC works. See verification methods below for more information.

Locating the Project

Survey Points and Project Origins

Going back to the roots of construction, surveyors would need distinct markers or “Survey Points” to provide real-world context for the project and coordinate various disciplines.

Naturally, with the development of digital programs, practical methods have been adapted into CAD functions. Within the context of Archicad, this has been translated as “Survey Points” which can be used as a common reference point to facilitate coordination of models from different programs.

Survey points are usually located on a distinct position such as the corner of the project or the intersection of bounding lines. Much like surveying, it is critical that all involved parties have agree on a survey point location prior to commencement of works.

TIP > It is best practise to agree on a common survey point early on with all involved parties.

Extracting IFC Location

In some cases it may not be possible to align the project origin points between programs.An case example may be as follows:

Archicad project is a portion of a larger masterplan.
Exported IFC references the larger Masterplan’s origin point.
Archicad File’s project origin is relative to the immediate site.

If the IFC is imported as is, it will not be in the correct location. It is also highly recommended to avoid manually shifting models to align origins and it opens the process to human error and wasted time.

To streamline the process, we would recommend adjusting the Archicad survey point to match the imported IFC.

Open IFC in separate ArchiCAD instance.
Extract position data “Easting” and “Northing” and duplicate into Archicad project file location.
Import in IFC via File > Interoperability > Merge from File
Check position of imported IFC is correct.

Following this, all future IFC imports/merges will be positioned according to the survey point.

Importing / Merging IFC files

Following the above steps, the project file is now prepared for import. The procedure is simple yet are dependent on some crucial settings.

The below steps will ensure an accurate and clean IFC import.

TIP > It is best to start this process from the Ground Floor storey view. Refer to final step below for details.

Locating the Library Parts

IFC’s often contain elements which are required for the IFC to display the correct information. It is best practice to keep the embedded library clear of clutter and as such we would recommend storing these elements / library parts in a separate folder.

Ideally these should be stored in a designated location on your regular file server (if the project is a teamwork file) or otherwise on your local device.

Building Selection

IFCs often hold varying levels of information. Depending on how the IFC author has exported the file, it is common to see multiple models for import. In this case, the consultant has included the original architectural model that was used to coordinate services.

In this case, “building” is the architectural model whereas “unnamed” is the relevant services data to be imported. Select the services data to continue.

TIP > If you are unsure which model you should be importing, you can review the IFC by opening in an separate Archicad instance. The same prompts will be shown.

Model Filter

At this stage, you have the opportunity to filter out unwanted model elements. Unless you have any specific requirements, leaving all items checked is the safest option as it is difficult to know how IFC element types were set up by your external party.

Press OK to continue.

Positioning the Merged File

This is the final and most critical step of the import/merge process. We recommend the following settings;

Align Merged File with: Archicad Survey Point.
This is crucial to capture the location settings input earlier.

Match Stories: Customise.
It is best practice to start the process from the ground floor view. This will reduce the chances of import issues due to mismatching stories.

The IFC should now be merged to your project file. It is best now to always verify that the relevant information has been imported into the correct position and orientation.

Preparing for Export

As with most 3D data exchanges, there some simple yet effective tools in Archicad which aid in the transfer of clean and streamlined models.

Considering Geometry

Overly complex elements may cause errors with geometry translation and render the resulting IFC file inoperable.

Use Polycount to assist in reduction of model complexity.
- Hide furniture
- Reduce window/door complexity
- Hide Entourage
- Reduce Global object detail
Translator Settings
- Precise BREP – Revit’s default geometric calculation method is based on BREP (boundary representation) as opposed to parametric or mesh based processing.
- IFC2x3 – Although IFC2x3 has been largely superseded by IFC4, Revit compatibility for IFC4 is still in further development. It is also less compatible with older versions of Revit.
  For maximum compatibility, IFC2x3 is still the recommended property mapping setting.

TIP > More details on how to best optimise model geometry are available here.

Verifying the Model

Prior to the distribution of models to external parties, it is sound practise to review the model for any errors. We recommend two different methods to check IFC models.

Open in Archicad

Reopening exported IFC files in Archicad allows for the user to directly compare the model before and after export. If there are any errors in geometry conversion or fidelity, it would show as a discrepancy between the models. This method however, does not provide feedback on the IFC files’ compatibility with other programs.

Open in Autodesk Viewer

Opening an IFC file in another app is the best way to verify its compatibility. As it isn’t an expectation for Architect’s to own licenses to multiple CAD programs, an alternative solution is to use Autodesk’s free online viewer.

This app offers the following benefits.

Does not require additional computing power
Free (no licensing required)
Opens a large variety of file types

As the viewer is a simple, yet capable, program it will give a clear indication of the contents and any errors in the file. As it is also associated with Autodesk, it is likely that it allows for verification that aligns with Autodesk Revit.

Also consider subscribing to our comprehensive File Exchange Field Guide, which includes details on importing IFC files into ARCHICAD as well as the specific tips and tricks for exchange of other file formats (e.g. DWG, 3ds, SketchUP and Revit).

Or if you’re after the basics, refer to Graphisoft’s reference guide here.

Andrew Kim

11 June 2024