Export Component-Level Data to IFC

[Rubia Torres]

Export customized data for individual components in IFC format

In earlier versions of Archicad, we couldn’t export customized data for individual components (not just elements as a whole) in IFC format, so component-level quantity reports required workarounds. Starting with Archicad 26, you can export this information in IFC format. As a result, the exported IFC model includes component-level information on the properties and functions of Archicad elements.

Assign IFC Type to components

Component-level type mapping is now available when exporting composite structures to IFC.

Building materials are classified by default, so each component (also called skin) of composite structures carries this classification. Check if this default classification meets your project’s specifications. Then map each component classification to a specific IFC Type in the Map IFC Types for Export dialog.
For example, a composite wall's plaster layer can be exported as an IfcCovering type. In earlier versions, components were uniformly exported as IfcBuildingElementParts.

A composite wall in Archicad

Type mapping of composite skins

For detailed Type Mapping settings, please check our dedicated section in the Archicad 26 User Guide.

Component-level property mapping at IFC export

Create component-level quantity take-offs, including classifications and properties without workarounds. Component-level property mapping allows architects and BIM managers to deliver the required data granularity and content without any post-processing.

When exporting an Archicad model to IFC, use Property Mapping to ensure IFC properties are accurately mapped to Archicad properties by setting up rules in the IFC Export translator.

In earlier versions, you could map these properties precisely only at the element level. For example, you could export the volume of a wall as a whole but not the volume of its components.

Starting with Archicad 26, the IFC export will automatically interpret component-level properties wherever applicable. If you use a mapping rule containing a component property (such as Component Volume), then the IFC model will include the volume data for each component of a composite element.

Default, "automatic" property mapping

You can also specify a property-mapping rule to apply only to a parent element or only to its components. For example, you can create a rule that will create a static text relevant only at the element level (not the components).

To make a mapping rule effective for just the whole element, or just the components, use the new pop-up at the Mapping Rule (IFC Translator for Export - Property Mapping for Export):

Learn more details about Property Mapping for IFC Export here.

Exchange more informative data

Export your IFC models to include information about the properties and functions of complex Archicad elements' components. Thanks to the enhanced IFC export capabilities of Archicad, your models will be more informative, better meeting the information needs of the receiving party.

Learn about all the new collaboration features of Archicad 26:

• Automatic Live Load Generation
• Faster Export to FRILO
• SAF Translator Improvements
• Support of Multi-Segmented Columns and Beams
• New Building Material Property Set for Life Cycle Assessment and Sustainability Calculations
• Representation of MEP Element Slope Direction

To learn more about all the new features of Archicad 26, read this article.