IFC Input Recommendation

Models that are converted to analysis models in ALLPLAN AutoConverter are stored on Bimplus. The input for the AutoConverter is an IFC file. IFC is a file format defined and developed by Building SMART. The IFC format provides various options for storing and transferring a lot of data (geometry and attributes) defined in the authoring model application (Allplan, ArchiCAD, Revit, Tekla, Advance Steel and others). IFC models that have been uploaded and processed on Bimplus are the input for ALLPLAN AutoConverter.

The resulting quality of the analysis model is closely tied to the quality of the IFC model uploaded to ALLPLAN AutoConverter. Following the Best Practices for IFC Creation below is crucial for the best possible result.

Best Practices for IFC Creation

It is common for modeling software to offer IFC export files. Usually there are predefined settings for IFC export and options to manually adjust the export rules. ALLPLAN AutoConverter can process IFC2x3 and IFC4.

Focus on the correctness of the following attributes during the export of the IFC. When these attributes are set correctly, it will maximize the speed of your workflow in the ALLPLAN AutoConverter.

  • Steel cross-section profiles (IPE200, HEA240, L100x100x6, etc.).

  • Material types (concrete, steel, aluminum, timber, etc.).

  • Load-bearing ability of specific elements.

For geometric precision, it is good to pay attention to the following:

  • Overlap of elements. Unwanted overlap of elements could lead to unwanted sub-region creation in ALLPLAN AutoConverter.

  • Inaccuracy in modeling. Slight changes in slab thickness along the length of an object could possibly lead to the recognition of multiple analysis elements instead of only one. The recognition algorithm can’t manage variable thickness of 2D objects at the moment.

  • Export of notches and other detailed adjustments. Notches are often automatically exported to IFC, but it is better to have less notches in 2D elements (walls, slabs etc.) for the best outcome in the ALLPLAN AutoConverter. The level of detail in the exported IFC can be usually adjusted in the export setting within the BIM authoring application.

Consider also the intent for receiving the IFC from your partner. For example, in cases where you know that a full BIM workflow won’t be used for the project you are working on, there is no need to work with the full IFC model (which is often large and difficult to transfer). In this case, it is best to ask only for load-bearing elements to be exported to IFC and upload this sub-model to ALLPLAN AutoConverter.