Working with BIM Files

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a workflow that lets you create and manage 3D model information during the lifecycle of a project.

The following file types are supported:

• .ifc files
• .rvt files
• .rva files

You can import BIM files, such as .ifc and .rvt files to your project and create the necessary documentation based on the BIM model. Various CAD features let you access information about the model and annotate the drawings.

The BIM Navigator palette groups all tools necessary for working with BIM models and drawings.

The basic workflow for working with BIM models includes the following steps:

1. Import the BIM file contaning the model.

   You can import .ifc, .rvt, and .rva files to your project and load the BIM model in the current .dwg file. The current .dwg file stores a link to the imported BIM file. See Importing BIM Files.

2. Work with the BIM model in the graphics area.

   Once you have loaded the BIM model in the graphics area, you can do the following.

   • Display BIM entities properties in the Properties palette.
   • Move the BIM file if required.
   • Use filters to control the display of BIM entities in the graphic area based on criteria, such as: Category, Predefined Type, or Entity Type.
   • Map BIM material names that exist in the loaded BIM file to the materials available in the BIM Materials Styles Library.
3. Extract data from BIM entities to .csv files.

   You can extract information from a set of entities using the Data Extraction wizard. See Extracting Data to Tables and Files.

4. Specify where to cut the model to create drawings. See Creating BIM Drawings.
   • Annotate the drawings using annotation tools.
   • Use hatches and line weights to improve the display of entities in the drawings.

    As the project evolves, new versions of BIM models may be received. Reload the BIM file to update the software with the current version of the BIM model. You must refresh the drawings so that all of the drawings reflect the current state of the BIM. See Managing BIM Drawings.

5. Place the drawings on the sheets.

   When you place a drawing on a sheet, the software automatically places drawing callout symbol and drawing title under the drawing. See Placing Drawings on Sheets.

     Before placing drawings on a sheet, open a sheet tab and set the sheet size options.

This chapter discusses:

• Importing BIM Files
• Managing BIM Files
• Working with BIM Models
• Working with BIM Drawings
• Working with BIM Materials
• Using the BIM Navigator