OpenRail Designer Help

Export to IFC

The feature allows the creation of IFC files without using Bentley cloud services. In addition, it is possible to assign IFC Classifications via Item Types to define IFC classifications with CAD elements. Using Item Types, users can efficiently manage and maintain IFC classifications, enhancing project data quality and collaboration.

Export to IFC

To open the Export to IFC navigate to Ribbon: Home Ribbon > Model Import/Export > Export IFC

First-time users need to update the two connectors mentioned below.

  1. Civil Connector
  2. IFC Exporter.

Once the Connector is updated the Export to IFC feature is ready to use.

Update Connectors Dialog

Export to IFC Dialog

Note: When using this tool for the first time, the required files will download and may take several minutes depending on your internet speed .

Troubleshooting Common Issues

For issues related to IFC classifications or Item Types:

  1. Verify Excel file is in the correct location defined by the ITEMTYPE_LOOKUP configuration variable. If the configuration cannot find the Excel file, the picklists in the IfcClassification item type will not be functional.

Best Practices for Exporting to IFC

  1. Create a 2D container file with OpenRoads Designer.
    1. This container file should be created from the correct seed file in the Workspace used by the dataset.
  2. Attach all needed/required reference files.
    1. If the reference file has a default (2D) and default-3D model, attach the default (2D) model only.
    2. If the file has only a 2D model(s), attach each desired model as-is.
    3. If the file has only a 3D model(s), attach each desired model as-is.
  3. Create a Civil model in the container file that results in the creation of a default-3D.
    1. e.g., Make terrain active.
  4. Review the hierarchy of the reference files. Be sure that ALL required files\models are listed. Set the 3D-De
  5. Set the 3D-Default model within the "container" file to a minimum nesting depth of one
  6. Save the file.

IFC Classification

The IFC classification Item Type serves as an optional tool that allows for mapping graphical elements to specific IFC schema items. When used, the Item Type assigns the version, class, and type to objects.

Objects that lack the IFC classification Item Type are assigned as proxy objects in the IFC file.

The IFC classification Item Types picklist is stored at the following location.C:\ProgramData\Bentley\OpenRoads Designer 2023.00\Configuration\Organization-Civil\_Civil Default Standards - Metric\Dgnlib\Item Types.

Note: For detailed IFC classification on setting up and using Item Types, please refer to Feature Definition and Item Type help.

IFC Limitations

  1. All-terrain greater than seven million points will not be exported.
  2. The Drainage results may not get export to IFC.
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