How to update IFC models in FM

This article covers how to update IFC models in Dalux FM and map the imported data from an updated model.

When updating IFC files in Dalux FM, you must pay close attention to the mapping of data, to avoid creating duplicates or removing data unintentionally.

Updating IFC files overwrites the existing file with a new one, but you can choose what data to import and what not to. In this article, we will show examples of IFC updates where:

• An extension to the building is added
• Two or more rooms are merged into one room
• One or more rooms are split into multiple new rooms

How to update an IFC model in Dalux FM

To update an IFC model in a Dalux FM instance, locate the building you want to update an IFC file for in the Locations module. This can be done with the map or by using the list view.

Double-click on the building to open it. Then click on Drawings and BIM.

Find the model you wish to update, click and then Update. Find the updated model file on your computer and upload it. 

The process is similar to your first upload, but it is very important to ensure that the new information from the BIM model is mapped correctly.

As we are importing a model with changes to room data, we check the 'Import rooms' checkbox. The upload window will show that the 'Action' is updating an existing model.

Click on 'Next' to continue.

When the updated model is uploaded and processed you will have to go through the mapping process again. Generally, you have the option to create, skip, or replace with the new data.

It is important to review each mapping window and decide what to do with the new data. Dalux will inform you of potential errors, such as already existing floors or rooms.

Updating the IFC on a building - Extensions to the building

In this example, we are updating our building model after having added an extra room in the building.

When the model is uploaded and processed, the 'Mapping' window will appear. In this case, two new rooms have been added to the model. This is shown in the mapping window.

When opening 'Room mapping' we will get an overview of the changes to the model. We can see that two new rooms have been created and that they are not overwriting any existing rooms.

It is very important to be aware of the changes in the model, so you know which actions to take during the mapping process.

• Create - For creating added rooms. Make sure duplicated rooms are not created by mistake. Make sure that new rooms in the model are set as 'Create'.
• Update - Will update the existing room data with new data from the model. You can update existing room data without breaking QR codes or links. Use this option, even if there were no changes to a specific room in the IFC model.

• Delete - If you wish the delete a room during the import. Can be used to delete Dalux FM rooms. Deleting rooms cannot be undone and links to the room will disappear.
• Skip - Will skip the import of new data. If you skip a room import for a room that is already a Dalux FM it will be removed in Dalux FM. Existing rooms should always be set to 'Update' if you wish to keep them in Dalux FM.

Go through each mapping window thoroughly and check that the data looks correct. When you are done click on 'Confirm' in the main mapping window to import the updated data. After the import of data is done, the new rooms can be seen.

Updating the IFC on a building - Merging rooms in the building

In this example, we are updating our Building model after two rooms have been combined into one room.

Follow the same process as above to find and update the IFC file.

When the model is uploaded and processed, the mapping window will appear. In this case, two existing rooms have been merged into one. The mapping screen informs that changes have been made.

Once again, all mapping windows should be thoroughly checked so the correct data is imported.

In the room mapping window, Dalux has detected changes to the rooms.

A room that is in Dalux FM, but not in the IFC file will be marked as 'Skip'. When marked with 'Skip' Dalux FM will remove this room from the instance / not import any data.

Go through each mapping window thoroughly and check that the data looks correct. When you are done click 'Confirm' in the main mapping window to import the updated data. After the import of data is done, the new room layout can be seen.

Updating the IFC on a Building - Splitting rooms in the building

In this example, we are updating our building model after one room has been split into two rooms.

This will update an existing room and create a new one. As this does not remove a room, QR codes and links to the original room will still work.

Follow the same process as above to find and update the IFC file.

When the model is uploaded and processed, the Mapping window will appear. In this case, one existing room has been split into two. The mapping screen informs that changes have been made.

Once again, all mapping windows should be thoroughly checked so the correct data is imported.

In the room mapping window, Dalux has detected changes to the rooms.

A new room has been added and this will be shown with the 'Create' action. The room that has been split into two new rooms will be updated with the 'Update' action.

QR codes and links to the existing room will not break.

Go through each mapping window thoroughly and check that the data looks correct. When you are done click 'Confirm' in the main mapping window to import the updated data. After the import of data is done, the new room layout can be seen.