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Module: Introduction to BIM

Lecture: IFC as a data exchange format

Lecture summary

The aim of this lecture is to briefly describe the structure and content of an IFC file. The background of the standard is described as well as its importance for the development of the BIM sector. The overall content of the BIM schema is then described, as well as the basic structure of the STEP format, which is the de-facto standard used for serializing the IFC model. An example of how to interpret an IFC file is also provided.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this lecture, the learner is expected to be able to:

  • Explain the role of IFC in the building and construction industry.
  • Explain basic concepts used in IFC, such as
    o Objects and entities, inheritance and properties
    o Basic IFC entities such as IfcWall
  • Describe the basic structure of an IFC file in STEP format.
  • Analyze the content of an IFC file and relate its STEP entities to the IFC standard.

Learning materials

This lecture consists of a slide-based presentation accompanied by a text document (presentation notes) that includes additional information on the slides.

Download the learning materials

L2.4 IFC as a data exchange format

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Ownership

Designed and developed by Anders Östman, Novogit.

Available languages

English Spanish

Version

V1.0. March 2024.

Expected workload

17 slides with course learning content, 2 classroom hours, 0.2 ECTS (ECVET).

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