Upload & Manage BIM Models in the Webapp

Overview

BIM models are managed in layers similar to plans. Layers are similar to folders to help you organise your BIM models, plans and tickets. Each BIM model must be assigned to a layer. Read more in Layers.

You can replace uploaded BIM models with newer versions, but there is no version management as with plans.

PlanRadar supports working with federated BIM models: you can view up to ten discipline-specific models as a single, cohesive model.

Read more about BIM Support in PlanRadar and about the BIM Viewer.

How to access Plans and Layers

1. Click Projects
2. Click on the project to open it
   
3. Click Plans and layers
   

Prepare BIM Models for Uploading

Guidelines for Exporting IFC Files

We recommend using IFC4 for best results, but IFC2x3 is the minimum requirement.

We also recommend that you follow these general guidelines when exporting your IFC files from your BIM authoring tool:

Preparation and Cleanup

Before exporting, clean up the model to ensure it's free from unnecessary details or elements that could increase the file size. This includes removing or simplifying complex geometries, deleting unused elements, layers, or materials, and consolidating similar objects.

Optimisation of Elements

Optimise the elements in your model for performance. This means using solid geometries, simplified representations for complex objects, reducing the level of detail where high precision is unnecessary, and ensuring that the model elements are properly classified and structured.

File Size Management

Large file sizes can significantly impact performance in other tools. Compress textures, and use references instead of embedding data where possible. Consider splitting large models into smaller, manageable files if the software allows.

Properties Management

Ensure that all necessary properties and metadata are correctly assigned to the elements. This includes information like material properties, element classifications, and user-defined properties. However, avoid overloading elements with excessive metadata.

Use of Standardised Elements and Templates

Stick to industry-standard elements and templates to ensure compatibility across different software. Custom or proprietary elements may not translate well in other tools.

Export Settings

In the authoring tool, use correct IFC export settings. Choose the appropriate IFC version and schema that aligns with the requirements of the target software. Select settings that favour performance, like excluding unnecessary data types.

Quality Assurance and Validation

After exporting, validate the IFC file using specialised tools to check for errors, compliance with standards, and overall integrity of the data. This step is crucial to identify and fix any issues that might affect performance in other tools.

Collaboration and Communication

If the IFC file is part of a collaborative project, communicate with other stakeholders to understand their requirements and expectations. This helps in tailoring the export process to meet the specific needs of all involved parties.

Documentation

Document your export process and settings for future reference and for use by other team members. This ensures consistency and efficiency in subsequent exports.

By following these steps, you can optimise the performance of your IFC files in other tools, ensuring effective interoperability and collaboration in BIM projects.

Consistent Coordinate Base

When importing multiple IFC files into the same layer, it's crucial to ensure that all files use the same coordinate base.

IFC files with mismatched coordinate bases can result in misaligned or misplaced model elements, making visualization and coordination challenging. To guarantee accurate representation and overlay of your models, always establish a common coordinate system before exporting from your design software.

This ensures that when federated IFC models are viewed in the BIM viewer, all elements align and display as intended, providing a seamless and accurate experience.

Upload BIM Models to a Layer

Please note that models can only be uploaded through the Webapp.

Upload a Single BIM Model

As long as you only need one BIM model per layer it works exactly the same as to Upload Plans to Layers.

Upload Multiple BIM Models

To add another BIM model to a layer which already contains at least one BIM model:

1. Select a layer
2. Click Add another IFC model
   
3. Enter the model title
4. Click Upload file and select the IFC file.
   OR select the IFC file in one of the cloud storage services.
   OR use drag and drop to upload the IFC file.
   
5. Click Upload
   

You can repeat this until you have up to 10 models on a layer.

Manage BIM Models

Update/Replace

To replace a BIM model with a newer version:

1. Select the layer
2. Open the More menu next to the IFC model
3. Click Edit
   
4. Update the model title
5. Click Upload file and select the IFC file.
   OR select the IFC file in one of the cloud storage services.
   OR use drag and drop to upload the IFC file.
   
6. Click Upload
   

Show/Hide Models

When using a federated model you can show and hide specific IFC models.

To hide all models:

1. Click Hide all models
   

To show/hide a single model:

1. Click the eye icon next to the model
   

To show all models:

1. Click Show all models
   

Download

To download a model:

1. Open the More menu next to the IFC model
2. Click Download
   
   

Delete

1. Open the More menu next to the IFC model
2. Click Delete
   
   
3. Click Delete to confirm