How to Prepare your IFC model for Solibri Checking

It is very important to be careful with some things when exporting an IFC that will be analysed in a Software like Solibri. Here are some tips about what you need to keep an eye on through this process: 

1. Classifications 

When you're getting ready to export an IFC File, getting the right information attached to the 3D model (that "I" in "BIM") is key. Your Classifications play a huge role here—they'll turn into IFC Types using the Type Mapping in your IFC Translator Settings. It's like the magic that makes sure all the important details come through when you're creating a BIM project.

Before exporting your IFC model, make sure all your elements are classified, you will find the classification under the Element Settings:

To audit your Classifications you can use:

• Graphic Overrides on 3D (create a rule where all classified elements are transparent and all non-classified elements have a bright colour)
• Schedules (create a schedule where you list all elements by classification - element type - layer and check for inconsistencies)
• Find & Select (add the criteria Archicad Classification > has no value)

2. Spaces

When you export your IFC Model from Archicad, the Zones become IFC Spaces. These Spaces hold vital details like Fire Safety, Lighting, and Thermal Requirements. Software like Solibri, used for BIM model analysis, might flag missing Spaces as a problem, affecting thorough analysis.

Make sure that your Zones:

• Have the correct boundaries and categories
• Have the correct height (Software like Solibri will flag zones that are not touching a Slab or Ceiling)
• Are showing in the view

A common Workflow to export IFC models is to use a 3D view in the Publisher sets. When you do that, you have to remember to turn on the Zone in your 3D Filter:

 

3. Model Location

To ensure a good workflow between disciplines, all involved parties must agree on the location reference so all IFCs will fit seamlessly in the Federated Model. In Archicad, the best practice is to use the Survey Point and IFC Georeference to determine that.

You can use a Surveyors file to insert the Survey Point to the correct location concerning your Archicad Origin. To Add IFC Georeference Settings go to Options > Project Preferences > Location Settings > Survey Point :

If the user matches the IFC model position with the 'Survey Point and Project Origin', the Survey Point will be used as IFC Global Origin in the exported IFC file and the Project Origin will be Site Location, or local placement of the model.

 

4. Translators 

Importing and exporting model data using IFC takes place according to the settings of the IFC Translator you are using. An IFC Translator defines the rules for which elements should be converted and how they should be interpreted - whether in ARCHICAD or the external application reading the IFC file.

To find your translator you can go to File > Interoperability > IFC > IFC Translators:

To learn more about Translators: 

• IFC Translators for Import in Archicad
• IFC Translators for Export in Archicad