What is ʼBIM Dataʼ (IFC) in a BricsCAD model?
Short Answer
BIM Data (IFC) in a BricsCAD model is the building information attached to BIM entities so they can be classified, exported, and exchanged in openBIM workflows. The most common professional method is to review and manage it in the BIMPROPERTIES panel before IFC export. Limitation: plain 2D or unclassified solids do not carry useful IFC data automatically.
What You Need to Know Before
Warning: IFC data quality depends on correct BIM classification and property mapping, not just geometry. A common failure is exporting clean-looking solids that were never classified, which produces incomplete or unusable IFC files for consultants.
How to Check and Manage BIM Data (IFC)
Command: BIMPROPERTIES
Shortcut: No default shortcut
Quick Steps:
- Select a BIM element in the drawing, then open the BIM workspace and launch BIMPROPERTIES from the Ribbon.
- Review the entity’s classification and IFC-related property sets in the BIM Properties panel.
- Edit the needed fields, then export using the IFC export option and confirm the correct classification is assigned before saving.
Variables & Settings
Key Setting: IFC version in the export dialog
Choose the required IFC schema/version during export to match the receiving platform’s requirements. Using the wrong schema can cause missing properties or rejected files in downstream BIM coordination.
Why it Fails
Cause 1 (Geometry): The object is just a generic solid or surface and has not been BIM-classified, so it has little or no meaningful IFC data.
Cause 2 (layers/Locks): The model elements are inside locked references or protected layers, preventing edits to BIM properties before export.
Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Users assume IFC data is created automatically from 3D shape alone, but BricsCAD needs classification and valid BIM properties for proper IFC mapping.
Quick Fix & Best Practice
- Quick Fix: Classify the building elements first, then edit them in BIMPROPERTIES before exporting the IFC file.
- Manager’s Verdict: Use IFC data only after model elements are properly classified and checked; avoid exporting early concept geometry as IFC unless coordination teams accept incomplete metadata.
FAQ
Can bricscad export IFC files?
Yes, BricsCAD BIM can export models to IFC for openBIM exchange.
Is IFC data the same as geometry?
No, IFC data includes classification and properties, not just 3D shape.
Do all BricsCAD objects contain BIM Data automatically?
No, only properly classified BIM elements carry useful IFC information.
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