Mapping to IFC

If the project participants work in an openBIM environment, BIM models are usually transferred in IFC format. BIM modeling software can output IFC files via an export interface. With the help of the corresponding files it is possible to control how the property sets and the properties are released into the IFC.

Model Checker software, such as simplebim, SMC or XBIM Xplorer, offer special functions to check the IFC models against information requests.

With BIMQ, the mappings to IFC versions can be included in the reports in order to enable a clearer understanding of the required handovers to clients or other project participants. BIMQ also offers the option of exporting an IFC schema file for ARCHICAD or an IFC mapping file for Revit. In addition, the test rules can be generated in XML format, in mvdXML format by buildingSMART or in XLS format (.xls).

The mapping of elements, property sets and properties must be supplemented in the project guidelines in order to be able to generate the files mentioned above.

Mapping of elements (IFC)

The mapping of an element describes how this element is later output as an IFC element from the BIM modeling software.

BIMQ offers a free text field to define mappings to elements. In addition, the mapping of elements can be configured using a selection list. This selection list contains the IFC entities depending on which IFC version is used in the later project.

To complete the mapping of elements for IFC, proceed as follows:

1. Click View to adjust the work area accordingly.

2. Place a check next to the IFC version you want to use in your project. Then click on Save.

3. Left-click on the corresponding IFC field of the element.

4. In the first drop-down box, select the IFC entity.

5. In the second dropdown box, select the IFC type. (This information is optional)

Mapping of property sets and properties (IFC)

The Mapping of a property describes how this property is later output as an IFC element from the BIM modeling software.

This instruction contains two pieces of information: (1) the name of the property set and (2) the name of the property. The mapping of a property set is optional and controls "Name of the property set" with the properties listed below.

BIMQ offers a free text field for defining mappings of property sets and properties. In addition, the mappings can be configured using a selection list. This selection list contains the Psets & Properties, depending on which IFC version is used in the project.

To complete the mapping of property sets and properties for IFC, proceed as follows:

1. Click View to adjust the work area accordingly.

2. Place a check next to the IFC version you want to use in your project. Then click on Save.

3. Left-click on the corresponding IFC field in the property set.

4. Complete the mapping as follows:

Option 1: IFC Psets: Select the desired property set from the selection list. (Please note that the selection lists can be different for different IFC versions.)

Option 2: Custom property set: Write the name of the property set in the text box that appears.

Note: If you want to apply the changes to all copies of this property set, deactivate the check mark next to the option "Apply settings to this requirement only".

5. Click Save to accept the entry. Click Cancel or press the ESC key to cancel the process.

To assign the properties to IFC:

1. Left-click on the corresponding IFC field in the property.

2. Complete the mapping as follows:

Option 1: IFC Property: Select the IFC Pset from the first dropdown list. Then select the IFC property in the second drop-down list.

Note: You can also use the replacement character "#" to define the property set. If you have already defined the mapping of the group, the mapping of the group for the "#" character is used for all outputs.

Option 2: User-defined properties: Use the free text field to define the mapping.

Base quantities

A base set can be defined using two options.

Option 1: Explicit

Here you must select the available or desired base quantity set. Then set the base quantity.

Note in the project requirements area: Selection of the permitted base set is restricted as soon as the IFC definition has been made at object level.

Note: However, we recommend that you use option 2, as this enables re-usability in different discipline models and objects.

Option 2: Placeholder

Available since BIMQ 2.13

Here you can simplify your definitions considerably with the help of the placeholder. Only the base quantity needs to be assigned.

The automatic assignment and resolution can now take place within the project requirements. For example, the property is resolved according to Qto_WallBaseQuantities.Height, as IfcWall has been defined at object level.

You therefore only need to define your base quantities in the template area and can assign them as required. The resolution then takes place automatically.

Multiple definitions are therefore no longer necessary.