How to customize your IFC models for efficient project management

Knowing how to customize your IFC models can can improve project management and access to data without relying on BIM authoring software. Let’s discover the benefits of customizing your IFC model.

Throughout the entire life cycle of a building, from the design phase to maintenance and decommissioning, it becomes necessary to control and tailor the information contained within the IFC model. Typically, this is achieved using BIM authoring software, which grants access to all the IFC model information.

However, there are less invasive solutions available, offering cost and usability advantages. IFC editor allows you to manage, edit, print, create renders, and experience a first-person views using immersive virtual reality.

Let’s delve into the details in this article!

Editing geometric properties

Custom IFC Model properties

IFC files contain not only geometric data but also specific element information such as thermal data, fire resistance, and more. This feature proves highly valuable in optimizing information management within models. However, various needs may arise, requiring modifications to the model.

While the specific needs can vary greatly, here are some common examples:

• Changing, inserting, or deleting certain properties of specific model elements.
• Modifying, inserting, moving, or deleting objects in the IFC model without relying on BIM authoring software.
• Managing and updating information throughout the project’s life cycle.
• Accessing all information present in the IFC model during the construction process.

It’s important to note that for a proper openBIM process, all changes made to the document must be tracked and validated.

Now, how can these requirements be fulfilled in the most efficient manner? Is there a way to seamlessly access data throughout the project’s life cycle?

The optimal solution lies in using a tool that requires no installation and can be accessed from any device. IFC editor offers this flexibility. It allows you to work from anywhere as long as you have a PC, tablet, or smartphone with an internet connection and a standard web browser.

An example of this type of software can be usBIM.editor.

Here’s a quick guide on how to use the application easily and efficiently:

• access usBIM from any browser by logging into your “My ACCA” account;
• create a new folder and upload the IFC file youwish to edit;
• click on the screen icon next to the uploaded file and select the Edit option;
• select the object of interest and modify its information by clicking on Properties in the upper right corner;
• use Edit Attributes to change the Name and Description of the selected entity;
• use Edit Properties to edit, delete, or add new properties to the selected entity.
• use Edit Classifications to change the classification of the selected entity;
• review changes made to the selected object in the property toolbox.

Using 3D objects in the IFC model

Adding 3D assets into the IFC Model

If your project requires specific details within the IFC model, it’s likely that you will also need to include 3D objects. IFC editor with its object libraries can be invaluable in this regard.

• BIM object libraries offer thousands of free resources such as CAD blocks, 3D models, and textures.
• These libraries are created online and can be shared with collaborators, managed and expanded over time using automatic re-versioning functions.

In addition to the available libraries, you can import other 3D model assets too. These are often modelled with popular software such as SketchUp®, Blender®, and Rhino-Grasshopper®.

That’s why it’s crucial to implement a correct openBIM process, ensuring that all changes made to the model are tracked and validated.