How can we insert and edit an IFC object in a BIM project?
How can we insert and edit an IFC object in a BIM project? Here are a series of videos produced with a BIM software for architectural design.
One of the main characteristics of using the BIM design methodology is the collaboration aspect between the various technical roles involved in the different phases of a structure's life-cycle to insert, extract, update or modify information from within the model itself.
For example, the architect defines shapes and geometries in order to obtain the 3D model; The structural designer defines the necessary structural members (beams, columns, walls, foundations, etc.).
From here, the need for a standard format that allows secure interoperability and interchange of data, without introducing error and/or loss of information. This in essence, is the purpose of the IFC format.
The IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is designed to process all building information through its entire lifecycle, from an extensive feasibility analysis to its implementation and maintenance, through various design and planning phases.
Let's have a look at how an architectural BIM Design software allows you to insert and edit IFC objects within a BIM project.
How to insert an external IFC object into a BIM project
From the architectural objects menu select the 'IFC object' item.
This is followed by selecting the IFC file to import and, once loaded, placing it in our BIM project.
With the IFC selected, we can then choose a different reference point on the object for precise positioning within our workspace and come in to be very useful when needing to position the IFC in relation to specific elements already present in our project.
In the example video we can see how the IFC object is inserted while other building entities such as the rooftop, slabs, vertical envelopes and curved envelopes are hidden. This kind of working procedure allows the user to keep all design aspects under control without having too much unnecessary information on-screen.
How to update the IFC object and assign entity colours
To make changes to the IFC object, we can start off by selecting the IFC object. Thanks to the editor on the side, we can easily edit and update the object's properties and data.
Easily add or edit information by entering a description, then maybe specify a height by setting the belonging level and delta (difference between two elevation heights).
When working with the IFC object, you can even assign a different color to each entity and choose whether to display it or not.
To verify the correct editing of the object, select Visibility, (top toolbar) and then select "Hide ALL". This filter enables the user to isolate the object from the rest of the model.
How to view the IFC file characteristics
With the IFC file selected, you can then access its dedicated editor.
Clicking ‘Edit IFC’ , you can select the entire object or an entire category. Then assign a colour to a single object and then the whole category.
Furthermore, you can show the various object types with a certain level of transparency or chosse whether to have them visible or not. Clicking on a single IFC object, allows the user to view all relevant entity data in the Editor view. Once all editing is completed, all customisations are then shown in the project.
Click here to find out more about Edificius, the Architectural BIM Design software
