IFC Material Mapping

[Scott Bulmer]

Greetings - I am testing AC13's IFC 2x3 export capabilities and have come across a couple issues I would like confirmation on if possible.

A site mesh was created using solid element operations to modify the surface. When that mesh is exported (saved as) using IFC 2x3, the mesh loses the SEO modifications. As a work around, we created an object of the modified mesh that uses its own materials. The created mesh object correctly displays the materials in the source file. When that object is exported using the IFC 2x3 and re-opened in AC13, the object loses all assigned materials and has a single black material created in the IFC export process.

I have tried various export settings without luck. Also, the IFC XML 2X3 returns the message 'cannot export file' when attempting the export.

So I just need to confirm the following regarding the IFC export process: 1) complex profiles go haywire when translated, 2) SEOs do not export and 3) created objects do not maintain their material assignments.

Thanks, Scott

[Erika Epstein]

Scott,
XML files, including IFCxml are typically for exporting to analysis programs such ecotect etc. They don't include all the project geometry. Stick to the IFC.

If you read through the IFC pdf you will see that meshes don't retain SEO relationships. They also recommend saving the mesh as a library part. You can still save it out in IFC choosing the Mesh or Site & Mesh options and then either the BREP or Geometry options. These settings affect the way other elements are translated so check the whole model.

As you noticed, the round trip comes back with the top surface material on all sides. On the plus side the mesh was converted to a library part .

[Scott Bulmer]

Erika - Great, thanks for the confirming reply and additional info! In your experience, is it also true that the complex profiles are or can be an issue as well? Scott

[Erika Epstein]

Yes, sometimes CP you have to make 2 of each so that you can draw them going different directions. They show up not where you want them when you round-trip.

Or are you experiencing some other problem with them?

[Scott Bulmer]

No, you stated it exactly. I hope this gets worked out in the near future as data exchange is and becoming more a big issue. Thanks again for your VPKB (vast personal knowledge base). Scott

[Anonymous]

Also be aware that the niche doesn't work with IFC. comes through as a complete opening in the wall.