IFC Thesis
IFC Thesis
IFC Thesis
Final thesis
Henrik Jensen
LIU-IDA/LITH-EX-G--15/031--SE
2015-06-12
Linköping University
Department of Computer and Information Science
Final Thesis
Henrik Jensen
LIU-IDA/LITH-EX-G--15/031--SE
2015-06-12
Configura Sverige AB is developing the software solutions Configura and CET Designer for companies
dealing with highly configurable and complex products that also require space planning. The aim is to
simplify the selling process. Configura Sverige AB has received requests from their customers to be able to
read and write files according to an ISO standard called Industry Foundation Classes (IFC). IFC is an open
international standard within Building Information Modeling (BIM) to exchange data between different
software applications used for projects in the building industry and facility management. To assist Configura
Sverige AB in a decision on how to further proceed, questions why users request IFC, how they need to
work with IFC, and about possible workflows with IFC are considered in this thesis. To answer the questions,
an interpretive case study method was used to view the questions from different perspectives. A qualitative
approach was used to collect and analyze data, involving for example a survey among users requesting IFC
and input from two different contractors requesting IFC files from these users. The results show that users
have been requested by architects and contractors to supply IFC files, and a conclusion is that demands on
the use of BIM and IFC within the public sector in certain countries is a major reason to these requests. The
results has much focus on import and export of IFC files and on possible workflows using IFC files. With
IFC files, users may be a part of a collaboration between several different disciplines within the building
industry. Users need to base their work on other disciplines models, which in many cases will be the
architect’s IFC file. An IFC export shall only include the user’s products, it will be up to another application
to integrate these products in a coordination BIM. The IFC export will be used for interdisciplinary
coordination, visualization and collision detection and it is important to use simple graphical representation
of the products.
Contents
Chapter 1
Introduction
This report is the result of a thesis in computer science at bachelor level, requested by the software
company Configura Sverige AB (CSAB). CSAB is developing software solutions for companies dealing
with highly configurable and complex products that also require space planning. The solution is called
parametric graphical configuration and the aim is to simplify the selling process (Configura Sverige AB,
2013). The software solutions offered by CSAB include Configura and CET Designer. In this report the
name Configura is used in a broader sense to include both solutions.
The privately owned company CSAB was founded 1990 and has its headquarter in Linköping,
Sweden. Offices are also present in Grand Rapids in Michigan, USA, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The
company has more than 90 employees worldwide and more than 9,000 users of Configura all around the
world. Existing customers are for example within the office furniture and kitchen industries but several
other industries are also represented. Among the bigger customer companies are DeLaval, Kinnarps and
Marbodal in Europe, and Steelcase, Haworth and Spacesaver in North America. (Configura Sverige AB,
n.d.-a)
Using the parametric graphical configuration solution Configura lets graphical symbols represent a
variety of configurable products, including rules on how different products can be combined. Each product
can be configured in many different ways, for example considering options of dimension, material, color
and interior settings. With this graphical user interface the salesman or designer is assisted in the sales and
order process. Based on a created drawing, visualization in 2D and 3D is available and necessary
documents like a quotation and a material list can be generated automatically. (Configura Sverige AB,
2013)
This report is organized as follows. Chapter 2 goes deeper into the context of the thesis and presents
related work. Chapter 3 describes the method used to achieve the results, which can be found in Chapter
4. In Chapter 5 there is a discussion regarding the results and the method used in the thesis. Chapter 6
summarize the thesis with conclusions and some areas of possible future work. The remaining part of this
chapter introduces the research performed in this thesis.
1.1 Motivation
In a world with many different software applications, files created in Configura use only one of many
existing file formats. There is a need to be able to exchange information between different applications.
For example, Configura is able to import files made in a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software and is
also able to export files in a format that a CAD software can read.
CSAB has received requests from their customers to be able to read and write files according to an ISO
standard called Industry Foundation Classes (IFC). IFC is an open international standard within Building
Information Modeling (BIM) to exchange data between different software applications used for projects
in the building industry and facility management (ISO.org, 2013).
2 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
1.2 Aim
CSAB needs a better understanding of what IFC is and how it can be used. Furthermore, the way users of
Configura need to work with IFC files in the software needs to be investigated. Firstly at a general level
and secondly at a more technical level. With this as a base CSAB will know better what kind of solution
for IFC that potentially is needed and can decide on how to further proceed.
1.4 Delimitations
BIM is a big area and IFC is one way to solve interoperability between different software. This thesis has
chosen to look at IFC as approach, however there can be other interesting solutions available. As IFC is
what has been requested, other potential possibilities are excluded from this thesis.
3
Chapter 2
Theory
In this chapter the context of the thesis is described as well as important areas related to the research
questions.
2.1 Configura
Configura is a software that provides assistance in complex selling processes, covering all steps from a
customer request to order entry. Users can create space planning drawings of their products with a
graphical user interface and be assisted with their products’ possible configuration. Out of the information
in the drawing, users may generate for example quotations, order data and layouts in 2D and 3D.
(Configura Sverige AB, 2013)
Below is an excerpt from a formulated mission of CSAB:
We develop and deliver Parametric Graphical Configuration (PGC) software for companies
that sell highly configurable products. We work with our customers by implementing solutions
that make their sales processes more efficient, cost-effective, accurate and profitable.
(Configura Sverige AB, 2013, p. 9)
In Configura a company’s products are represented by a relatively small set of graphical components. Each
of these components have integrated rules for allowed dimensions, material, color and other options. The
components also have integrated rules for how they can be combined with other components, as well as
rules for how components may be affected when combined. A user may place and combine these
components on a drawing area without having knowledge about product details and combination
possibilities. Configura makes sure no invalid configuration is created. (Configura Sverige AB, 2013)
Figure 2-1 illustrates an example of the configuration complexity of chair, where several configuration
possibilities of the chair leads to a multitude of variants (Configura Sverige AB, 2013). Figure 2-2 shows
an example of how the integrated rules may generate a different leg configuration when two tables are
connected to each other (Rydqvist, Lyreborn, & Rydqvist, 2006).
To be able to create space planning of a company’s products, users are able to base their work on a
floor plan created in a CAD software. Configura is able to import files in DWG, DXF and SAT format
that are common file formats used in CAD software. These CAD files contain 2D information of for
example a floor of a building, and they may sometimes also contain 3D information. Figure 2-3 shows an
example from Configura where a CAD file has been imported and a company’s products have been
inserted on the drawing area. The products in this example are partition walls used to separate a large open
area in a building into several smaller rooms, and the products can be viewed in both 2D and 3D. In the
example, the CAD file only includes 2D information. Configura is also able to export the drawing with
the products in DWG or DXF format, but product rules are not included in the export. There are no links
in the exported file to the corresponding Configura components, so if the file would be imported in
Configura the components would not be recognized.
4 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
2.2 BIM
There are several definitions of what Building Information Modeling (BIM) is. Miettinen and Paavola
(2014) speaks of BIM as an evolution of CAD systems with more intelligence and as a multidimensional
complex phenomenon. BIM takes visualization a step further and it allows simulation of the behavior of a
building and it enables more efficient project management (Miettinen & Paavola, 2014). At first, BIM can
be defined as an object-oriented digital 3D representation of a building (Miettinen & Paavola, 2014).
However, the National BIM Standard-United States (NBIMS-US) states that the early definitions of BIM
as simply a 3D model of a facility fail to communicate the potential of BIM processes, tools and
communication methods (National Institute of Building Sciences, n.d.). Instead NBIMS-US uses the
following definition:
A BIM is a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility. As
such it serves as a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility forming a
reliable basis for decisions during its lifecycle from inception onward. (National Institute of
Building Sciences, n.d.)
BIM can be described as a collection of information and data as requested by many different stakeholders.
By making it all available in a model accessible by all actors it makes the collaborative part of BIM very
important. For this collaboration, an important area where BIM is frequently used today is to find potential
problems when coordinating different disciplines. This can for example be done by using specific software
for collision detection between different disciplines’ models. BIM can also be used for construction
simulation, for example to detect possible conflicts during construction, and to calculate quantities and
estimate costs. A BIM may contain any information about a building and its content, which may be useful
in facilities management. A software may for example use a BIM to analyze a building’s thermal comfort
and energy consumption. (Chong, Preece, & Rogers, 2014)
The areas of use for BIM are sometimes categorized in dimensions, where each dimension adds new
possibilities for the model (Johansson, Haftor, Magnusson, & Rosvall, 2014). These dimensions are:
3D – Geometry
4D – Construction time
5D – Cost estimation
6D – Facilities management
measurements of the economic effects of BIM, as there often is a perceived cost increase on a short-term
basis (Vass & Gustavsson, 2015). Miettinen and Paavola (2014) summarize the four areas seeing evident
potentials of implementing BIM, but more research is needed for BIM studying for example usage by
different disciplines during different building phases and how to organize new uses of BIM.
Table 2-2. BIM software to for example combine, view and check models.
1 SketchUp Pro 2015 is a 3D modeling software with possibility to export models as IFC files.
Chapter 2 Theory 9
2.3.7 Certification
Software applications can be certified to fulfill a certain MVD of IFC for data exchange. buildingSMART
currently has a scheme called Coordination View Certification 2.0 (CV2.0) to certify software for import
and export of IFC2x3 files. The export test confirms the exchange requirements of an architect model,
structural engineer model, and building service (MEP) engineer model. All three exchanges need to be
supported to pass the export test, while for the import test to pass the application only has to support an
import according to its purpose and functionality A certification scheme for data exchange of IFC4 files
is currently in development and will certify export and import using the two MVDs IFC4 Reference View
and IFC4 Design Transfer View. (buildingSMART International, n.d.-k)
buildingSMART International (2015) lists all currently certified software according to their CV2.0
certification scheme, which at date is a rather limited amount of software applications. There is also a more
12 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
collaborative design, realization and operation of buildings based on open standards and workflows”
(buildingSMART International, n.d.-m). There is also something called the Open BIM Program which is
a marketing campaign initiated by Graphisoft, Tekla and other companies to promote the Open BIM
concept in the architect, engineering and construction industries (Graphisoft, n.d.-b).
2.4.4 Examples
Related to Configura, it may be of interest to know how for example furniture may be handled in a BIM
as requested in the public sector.
The Norwegian public sector company Statsbygg has a section for interior design modelling in their
BIM manual. This section states that it may be voluntary to include the interior design in the BIM,
14 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
depending on the requirements of a project. If required, furniture, fixtures and equipment shall be located
correctly in spaces in the BIM, having a relationship to the space (IfcSpace) that they are located in. The
objects shall be represented by its object type (IfcFurnitureType) with naming enumeration according to
an agreed classification system (for example IfcFurnitureType.Chair and IfcFurnitureType.Table).
(Statsbygg, 2013)
Figure 2-7 and Figure 2-6 show examples of how BIM may look when viewed through Solibri Model
Viewer. Figure 2-7 shows an architect’s BIM in IFC format viewing the building from the outside. Figure
2-6 shows a coordination BIM in the native format of Solibri Model Checker. The example in Figure 2-6
shows a kitchen area in a building where several disciplines’ models are available. As may be seen in the
example, objects for kitchen appliances, cabinets, electrical equipment, sprinklers, ventilation etcetera are
available in the BIM.
Chapter 2 Theory 15
Figure 2-7. Architect’s BIM in IFC format, visualized in Solibri Model Viewer (file courtesy of Kruse
Smith AS).
Figure 2-6. Coordination BIM where several disciplines’ models are available, visualized in Solibri
Model Viewer (file courtesy of Kruse Smith AS).
17
Chapter 3
Method
The research methodology in this thesis is based on an exploratory purpose. Runeson and Höst (2009)
describe an exploratory research purpose as “finding out what is happening, seeking new insights and
generating ideas and hypotheses for new research” (p. 135). The thesis can also be said to be based on an
interpretive case study method, which “attempts to understand phenomena through the participants’
interpretation of their context” (Runeson & Höst, 2009, p. 135).
In a case study, a few objects like for example users or companies are closer investigated in various
aspects (Eriksson & Wiedersheim-Paul, 2014). Runeson and Höst (2009) describe that a case can consist
of one or more units of analysis, but depending on the context of the units it may be seen as several different
cases. When choosing to study two or more cases, or units of analysis, it is possible to compare the cases
but the more cases the less time is available for each individual case (Eriksson & Wiedersheim-Paul, 2014).
The collection of data in this thesis used a qualitative approach (Runeson & Höst, 2009), where for
example words and sentences are involved which may provide rich and deep descriptions. When relying
on qualitative data it is important to look at the studied objects from different angles (Runeson & Höst,
2009). This is called triangulation and means that a higher level of precision is achieved by using different
sources to check if they validate or invalidate each other (Eriksson & Wiedersheim-Paul, 2014). Several
research methods are often combined within a case study (Patel & Davidson, 2011; Runeson & Höst,
2009). In this thesis a survey was combined with interviews and archival data which is a way to use
triangulation (Runeson & Höst, 2009). A similar approach was used by Jensen and Jóhannesson (2013)
that combined a survey, using a questionnaire, with interviews to collect data when exploring the
implementation of BIM in the Nordic countries of Europe.
Analysis of qualitative data involves interpretation of words and can be assisted by using categorization
and sorting (Runeson & Höst, 2009). Collection of data and analysis may be done incrementally, where if
the analysis shows that more data is needed new data may be collected (Runeson & Höst, 2009).
Within a qualitative research, the terms validity and reliability are so close to each other that the term
reliability is seldom used. Instead, the term validity is used in a broader meaning. Each qualitative research
is unique and there are no final rules or procedures to ensure validity. It is therefore important that the
research process is carefully described to let anyone reading the report form their own view of the process.
(Patel & Davidson, 2011)
The following sections in this chapter describes the different steps carried out in this thesis with the
help of the chosen method.
3.2 Interviews
Two employees at CSAB were judged to be able to give essential information related to the research
questions and are included in the study in the form of two semi-structured interviews. The main questions
were planned in advance and were used to make sure all questions were handled. In a semi-structured
interview, improvisation and exploration is allowed (Runeson & Höst, 2009).
The first interview was with Freddie Pintar who had done a thesis work (Pintar, 2009) at CSAB about
the RevLink extension. He was also a part of the team continuing the development of RevLink after the
thesis was completed. The interview was held at the CSAB office in Linköping with a duration of
approximately one hour. The interview was conducted before the questionnaire was sent to the initial
selection. The purpose of this interview was to get a better understanding of BIM and the RevLink
extension, but also to get input for the design of the questionnaire to be used in the survey. See Appendix
A for the main questions handled during the interview.
The second interview was with Martin Ericsson who is a part of a team in Kuala Lumpur (KL),
Malaysia, and they are doing the current development of RevLink. The interview was held using a Skype
call with a duration of approximately 40 minutes. This interview was conducted after the questionnaire
was sent to the initial selection. See Appendix A for the main questions handled during the interview.
Both of the interviews were recorded, with the consent of the interviewees. The first interview was
partly transcribed, focusing on sections that possibly could be used for the result or for the design of the
questionnaire. The second interview was almost fully transcribed, except for the voice of the interviewer.
The transcriptions were analyzed with focus on what was judged to be of interest for the research questions
and were categorized into “RevLink extension” and “IFC export”. The interviewees were asked to confirm
their input used in the result, and some feedback was given and changes made accordingly. Both
interviewees gave their consent to have their name appearing in this report.
3.3 Survey
The survey was an attempt to cover questions related to the research questions. Using a survey enables a
larger selection compared to interviews. In interviews there is a risk that people with none or minor
knowledge about the research area are interviewed, with situations where the interviewer has to explain
extensive background details or that the interviewee tries to elicit information from the interviewer, leading
to inefficient data collection. Beside receiving useful information from the respondents, the idea was also
to use the survey to find people with deeper knowledge within the research area.
To answer the research questions one of the goals was to establish contact with potential Configura
users with experience or knowledge of IFC. Because the requests for use of IFC in Configura has been
relatively low so far, compared to Configura’s total number of users, the selection of possible users with
knowledge about IFC was expected to be low. Customer companies of CSAB often have one assigned
project manager that in many cases also is responsible for that company’s Configura users. By that, they
often have a lot of knowledge about what their users request. Including project managers could therefore
lead to contact information to other Configura users.
Chapter 3 Method 19
3.3.1 Selection
Contact information to people with potential knowledge about IFC was acquired from project managers
and other employees at CSAB. These contacts consisted of five project managers with Configura
responsibility at customer companies of CSAB, and one sales expert. These six people are further on called
the initial selection. The initial selection represent companies mainly within industry sectors like office
furniture, kitchen, partition walls, storage and property protection. Countries that the initial selection
represent are Norway, Finland, Sweden and France.
The purpose was to use the initial selection to get as much information as possible related to the
research questions, and also to find other users that could contribute to the research. As several of the
project managers in the initial selection have requested IFC in Configura, they were judged to be motivated
to participate in the survey and assist as much as possible. Two people from the initial selection could give
contact information to users with potential knowledge about BIM or IFC. In contact with one of these
users another user also became involved. One person from the initial selection thought there could be
knowledge about BIM or IFC within their internal sales and design department, but the person did not
have time to investigate this further. Via this person, contact information to 21 users was received.
The initial selection and the additional selection are considered as the total selection in the performed
survey. The total selection was 29 people.
3.3.2 Questionnaire
A questionnaire-based survey has many similarities with a fully structured interview (Runeson & Höst,
2009). The questionnaire used in the survey was designed according to a time-glass model (Runeson &
Höst, 2009), beginning with open questions, focusing on the main questions in the middle and finalizing
with more general questions at the end. The questions in the questionnaire were designed with the research
questions in focus, and input was also received via archival data and one of the study’s interviews.
The questionnaire contained three main sections called background, information exchange, and
additional information. The first section was used to set the relevance of the respondent and to possibly
receive general, but potentially interesting, information. The second section was a try to get deeper into
the research area with connection to the reality of information exchange for the respondent. The last section
aimed at adding additional information that could increase the understanding of the requests, and to allow
the respondent to add any information not covered by earlier questions.
Before the questionnaire was sent to the initial selection, it was reviewed by Mikael Ågerud at CSAB
who was familiar to the questions. Based on the feedback from the reviewer a few questions were removed
and others were simplified and clarified with examples. After the first revision, a better focus on the
research questions were obtained.
An e-mail was sent out individually to the initial selection with information about how the contact
information was received, a very short description of the study and an explanation of two attached files.
The files attached were an introduction letter to the study (as a PDF file) and the questionnaire document
(as a DOCX file). The introduction gave background of BIM and IFC and the purpose of the study. It also
stated that the participation was voluntary and that the result would not be used to identify individual
participants or companies. If the person would choose to participate in the study the questionnaire was
asked to be answered directly in the attached document. Those participating were also requested to answer
as soon as possible, or at least within one week from the arrival of the questionnaire. See Appendix B for
the introduction letter and the questionnaire that were sent to the initial selection.
As soon as a questionnaire was returned it was read and interpreted. Patel and Davidson (2011) and
Runeson and Höst (2009) state that it is an advantage to analyze the result continuously and in parallel
with the data collection and as soon as possible after being collected. This can give new ideas on how to
proceed. When a few answers were analyzed it was realized that one interesting question could be added
to the questionnaire. The questionnaire was revised with a new question and to reduce the content of the
questionnaire another question was removed. The question removed was judged to be less important to
answer the research questions. The revised version of the questionnaire can be found in Appendix B. In a
20 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
couple of cases when there was no clear understanding of an answer, the respondents were asked to clarify
themselves. The respondents were also able to answer the additional question from the revised
questionnaire, unless the already given answers stated it unnecessary.
The initial selection were also asked for contact information to people, or users in specific, with more
knowledge about BIM or IFC. Contact information to a first user was received, and the introduction and
the revised questionnaire was sent to this user. This user decided to involve a second user and they
synchronized their answers in one questionnaire. Contact information was also received to 21 users with
potential knowledge about BIM or IFC. An email was sent to all of these 21 users, but only those with
experience or knowledge of BIM or IFC were asked to participate. The introduction and the revised
questionnaire were included in the email.
If the questionnaire was not answered within one week a reminder by email was sent once. An
exception was in the case of the 21 users, where the respondent from the initial selection that had given
the contact information was asked by email to specifically remind those of the 21 users that possibly could
contribute to the study. The respondent confirmed the request.
3.3.3 Analysis
All questionnaires and clarifications received in correspondence with respondents were summarized in a
new document. The respondents were coded with a short designation. For each question in the
questionnaire, all the respondents answers were listed and marked with the corresponding respondent’s
designation. This gave a better overview of all available answers and it was easier to find a few main
categories for all answers. The categories found were partly linked to the questions in the questionnaire
but they were also generated out of the answers. The answers were sorted according to different categories
and during the process the categories evolved several times, where some new categories appeared, others
were removed and some adjusted. The final categories became “Background”, “Related issues”, “Reasons
to use IFC”, “IFC requests” and “IFC in Configura. These categories are also used as sections in the results
in Chapter 4. A category related to information received from contractors was also used, but this category
was handled outside of the analysis of the questionnaire and is described in a section below.
Most of the respondents’ answers were used in the results, but not all. A few answers were difficult to
interpret and the corresponding respondent was asked for clarification. Those answers where no
clarification was received are excluded from the results. All remaining answers were then summarized
within each category, using a mix of citations, tables and descriptive text.
All respondents did not answer all questions in the questionnaire, but this loss of data was not to any
greater extent. The missing answers were mainly in the question about the respondent’s knowledge of
different BIM software being used. There were also a few requests not related to BIM or IFC and they
were not further analyzed. Instead, they were reported as feature requests in the issue tracking system used
by CSAB.
The answers in the questionnaires were given in English and Norwegian. Native language of the
researcher is Swedish, but with a good understanding of both English and Norwegian. Analysis of the
answers has therefore involved linguistic interpretation of words and sentences in different languages.
To reduce the possibility to identify individual participants, designation of the respondents is not used
in this report.
The contractors are designated as in Table 3-2, which also shows their title and company name. They
are both active within the Norwegian building industry in companies dealing with building projects from
design to construction. Both contractors gave their consent that all information they provided may be used
in this thesis report, as well as appearing with company name.
Table 3-2. Contractors information.
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
STEP 5
Chapter 4
Results
In this chapter the results of the study is presented. The same sections as used in Chapter 3 is used in this
chapter as well.
4.2 Interviews
Below is the result of the two interviews with the CSAB employees Freddie Pintar in Linköping, Sweden,
and Martin Ericsson in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia. In this section, the name CET Designer is used
instead of the combined name Configura to better tell which solution was in focus during the interviews.
4.3 Survey
The result of the questionnaire used in the survey comes from four respondents from the initial selection,
and six respondents from the additional selection. Two respondents from the additional selection answered
in one questionnaire and synchronized their answers for some questions. The respondents are within
companies in the office furniture, partition walls, and kitchen industries. Countries represented by the
respondents are Norway, Finland and France. The survey was conducted in April and May 2015.
4.3.1 Background
Among the respondents are four project managers with Configura users responsibility at their company,
two salesmen and four interior designers. All respondents but one state that they use Configura on a daily
basis. Usage of BIM software by the respondents themselves were low, only one had some minor
experience of ArchiCAD and Revit. However, two respondents had experienced it when collaborating
with others. One respondent mentioned Configura and AutoCAD as BIM software used within the
company, otherwise nobody knew about such use. Only Revit and ArchiCAD were mentioned by one
respondent as known BIM software used by people asking for quotations. Nobody of the respondents had
experience of working with IFC.
A respondent tells that the architect wants to have the products in 3D to be able to consider how the
products are placed in space related to electrical works, air conditioning, plumbing etcetera. Another
respondent is unsure of possible scenarios but can imagine a situation where a customer wants to have a
file including all furniture and other interior items. One respondent writes the following scenario:
Client designers need to know all details of the furniture (sizes, materials, delivery time…),
so they can order the furniture or make an offer request or competitive bidding.
Three respondents mention IFC file requests by contractors during the project planning of new building
complexes, and two respondents tell that these contractors have requested IFC files with their products
during a long time.
A respondent that was writing about a BIM or IFC library tells that the main advantage of BIM software
is that they all can access an IFC file, reading and writing information. The role of software like Configura
is to be able to add information into IFC files, for example by adding products, but also to understand
information in an IFC file to be able to add more information to the end user. For example there could be
an IFC file with the company’s products letting anyone see their 3D visualization and technical
information. But only Configura will understand the link between the company’s product library and the
price, the necessary material and material preparation etcetera.
One respondent state that use of IFC will become obligatory for the public market in a near future.
Therefore, manufacturers that want to make a quotation for such a project must be able to supply an IFC
file.
should be exported individually rather than in groups to allow the products to be moved. Two respondents
agree on that a likely need is to be able to choose which components that are to be exported to IFC, similar
to what can be done for a DWG file export today in the CET Designer version of Configura. A respondent
mentions about an architect’s request to receive their products in different layers, but this case was for a
DWG file export.
4.4.1 Contractor A
In the information to the respondents, Contractor A starts by telling:
We nowadays base all our projects on an expected use of BIM and IFC as main
communication for interdisciplinary coordination. [Researcher’s translation]
Below is a summary of Contractor A’s aspects on IFC files from the respondents, according to information
received in the questionnaire:
The primary area of use would be interdisciplinary coordination and visualization.
We will be able to run digital checks to make sure everything is correct. Mainly to detect collisions.
Other use may for example be to make sure that an adequate number of electrical outlet is used,
and placed according to the need, as well as to make sure that the ventilator channel is placed
correctly.
Use of a common zero point, coordinate system and orientation as the rest of the project.
One IFC file for each building complex where all components are placed correctly in all rooms in
each file. That is, if a quotation is requested for more than one building, separate IFC files for each
building is requested.
Important that they are as simple as possible. That is, not giving IFC files with visualization details
of for example handles of cabinets and drawers and fittings inside of them. Having too much details
creates unnecessary large files and reduce the effect of BIM.
The additional information below is based on answers from Contractor A regarding the follow-up
questions:
The Configura user will get access to the contractor’s web-solution for projects, which at any time will
contain the latest updated models from all disciplines. The contractor believes it is the architect’s model
that will be the most relevant for Configura users. This model contains objects like “Wall”, “Door”,
“Window”, “Suspended Ceiling”, “Floor”, “Space”, “Slab” etcetera,. Building floors and header
parameters of the IFC file is based on the architect’s model. The contractor was willing to send IFC files
as examples for what Configura users can base their work on, and supplied a couple of files used during
two different building projects. Some files were in IFC format as examples of what an architect may deliver
and some files were in the native format of Solibri Model Checker (SMC files) as examples of
collaboration models including several disciplines.
The IFC file from Configura can be made to match the architect’s model. The IFC file from Configura
should be a separate file, not integrated in the model the file was based on. The contractor requests that all
IFC files use their orientation cube, which is an object to make sure that the same orientation and zero
point are used by all disciplines. The zero point used is always based on the architect’s file. The IFC file
Chapter 4 Results 29
from Configura can then be integrated in the contractor’s complete model without any need for
adjustments.
The contractor thinks it would make sense to have each product as a separate object. A major concern
is the outer geometry of objects and having a geometry as simple as possible, not including details like for
example curvature of a faucet. It is also important to consider objects that interface other disciplines, like
for example a sink that needs plumbing or a dishwasher that needs plumbing and electricity. When it
comes to attributes and properties of products the contractor is not sure of what may be needed. One
possible use mentioned would be to share product numbers as it would make communication easier, for
example when there is a problem with a product.
4.4.2 Contractor B
Below is a summary of Contractor B’s aspects on IFC files from the respondents, according to information
received in the questionnaire:
All products included in one IFC file.
Should be coordinated with the zero point used in the current project, so that the file can be placed
correctly in the complete IFC model for the project.
Detail level must be adapted to not create a too heavy IFC model that is difficult to handle.
The IFC file with the products should be created based on material received from other participants
in a project.
The additional information below is based on answers from Contractor B regarding the follow-up
questions:
As far as possible the contractor wants to avoid so called “double modeling”, and therefore each
discipline should plan and supply their own objects only. It is fully possible to use an IFC file as base
when asking for a quotation, but this demands that the model from their architect is sufficiently complete
and detailed at that time. Normally the IFC file contains models from all disciplines, but the contractor
tells it would be easy for each user to filter out models to show for example only the architect’s model.
The contractor could currently not send any IFC files as examples.
The contractor could not answer how products should be grouped when delivered in an IFC file and
thinks this needs to be discussed further to be able to find a good level. But generally the contractor thinks
it would be desirable to have the information by product type. Their request is that all objects in an IFC
file are supplied with information according to the company’s BIM manual for the current project.
The contractor supplied two documents to be viewed; a BIM manual used in projects and a
specification with demands on models and drawings. Below is a brief summary of the two documents,
focusing only on areas important for this study, and especially to confirm information from others:
All file exchanges shall be done using the web-solution for projects. Each discipline shall be able to
deliver models in IFC2x3 and DWG format, with a detail level of the IFC model so that drawings and
quantities can be generated directly from the model. The architect is responsible to define the zero point
and coordinate system used in the project, and all models shall be based on those. The models are generally
divided per building, with one file for every discipline and each building. Each model should be made
manageable for others in their software, with simplified geometry or unnecessary details excluded. Every
model will be checked towards other disciplines’ models using visual controls and rule based collision
detection.
All objects in an IFC model shall:
Have dimension information, such as length, width, height, diameter, radius, area and volume.
Belong to a floor.
Be defined with correct material types.
30 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
There should be a column located at the zero point of the project, as well as a column located five meters
from axis A and five meters from axis 1.
Solibri Model
Revit Configura
Checker
(Architect) (Interior designer)
(Contractor)
Figure 4-1. Possible workflow using IFC files where different actors and software applications are
involved.
An IFC export should use simple graphical representation of objects to have a manageable IFC file. A
low detail level should be used, excluding not visible or less important parts of an object. The products
should be located according to a zero point and coordinate system as defined by the architect of the
building, so the model can be placed correctly in the project’s complete IFC model. Having each separate
product type as a separate object in IFC is the most common perception, where a possibility to choose
which products to export may be necessary.
A number of possible product attributes are mentioned, both regarding an IFC export and the existing
Revit export. Listed below are those attributes that are verified by more than one source:
Main article code
Name
Dimensions
Material
Manufacturer
Price
Acoustics information
In addition to the products from Configura, both contractors have a request for contractor specific
geometry appearing in the IFC export to make sure correct orientation is used in the file.
33
Chapter 5
Discussion
In this chapter the results is discussed. There is also a discussion regarding the method used to achieve the
results.
5.1 Results
The results indicates that the Configura users are not really sure of what they expect of a solution for IFC
in Configura. The survey gives an idea of what possibly could be needed, but it also shows an uncertainty
among the users. What they request is not really a need they see by themselves, but rather a need they see
because of requests they have coming from another part. Their responses in the survey are therefore in
many cases not expressions of their own requests, but instead expressions of what they perceive as requests
on themselves. Looking at the users’ need from a basic point of view, their request on Configura is a need
for better collaboration. What the Configura users need can out of this perspective be said to be defined
by what the requesting part needs from them. Having input from contractors is therefore a good way of
finding out what is requested of the Configura users, and even if indirectly this is then most likely the
users’ requests as well. Therefore the information received from the contractors are judged to be important
in this study and the results has much focus out of the view of collaboration with a contractor. However,
there may be different needs and different requests in other scenarios when no contractor is involved. But
as a general contractor often is involved in practically all phases in the building process it may be
considered as one of the better views to study.
What has caused this specific need to collaborate? A major reason to this may be that in some countries
it is, or will be in the future, mandatory for projects involved in the public sector to work with IFC files
(Laakso & Kiviniemi, 2012; Smith, 2014). And this need can be expected to increase, as a common belief
is that other companies eventually follow such demands (Chong et al., 2014). The majority of the
respondents in the survey are located in Finland and Norway that have public sector requirements for the
use of BIM and IFC (Laakso & Kiviniemi, 2012; Smith, 2014). The results in this study can confirm that
more companies follow the requirements in the public sector. The two involved contractors from two
different companies in Norway both have IFC requirements, even when not dealing with buildings for the
public sector. One contractor state that they nowadays base all their projects on an expected use of BIM
and IFC, and the other contractor supplied a BIM manual stating that each discipline shall be able to deliver
IFC models.
Why is there not a greater demand on Configura users to be able to deliver IFC files, given the results
in this thesis? This questions is especially interesting for Configura users in countries having demands on
IFC use. Looking for example on Finland where IFC requirements from Senate Properties have existed
since 2007 (Smith, 2014), it was more difficult to receive information in this study about IFC requests
from Configura users than one can imagine. When considering new buildings, a possible explanation could
be that products coming from Configura are not a central part of the building itself and therefore not as
prioritized in a BIM model today. This is supported by Statsbygg (2013) stating in their BIM manual that
the interior design is voluntary in the BIM model. If kitchen products and partition walls are voluntary in
the BIM model is not known, but compared to furniture they can be seen as a more integrated part of a
34 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
building. Configura is in many cases involved when existing buildings are to be furnished as well. At the
moment existing buildings rarely have any BIM available (Volk et al., 2014), and this could also be a
reason to a lower rate of IFC requests. But with an expected growth of BIM in the future, it is expected to
lead to an increased availability of BIM for existing buildings (Volk et al., 2014). Following an increased
overall BIM availability it is likely that Configura users will receive more requests for IFC in the future,
related to both new and existing buildings.
Looking a bit beyond the IFC focus in this report, it is common that large software actors usually
assume a central role in holding the data (Laakso & Kiviniemi, 2012). A native format of a central BIM
software may be an alternative to IFC. Therefore, it is relevant to consider compatibility with different file
formats (Bouygues Construction, 2014). But knowing that buildingSMART consists of companies like
Autodesk (developing Revit) and Nemetschek (behind software like ArchiCAD, Vectorworks, and Scia
Engineering), the Open BIM initiative with IFC can be considered as a reliable alternative.
representation as expected. But when considering the findings in the results the main use of an IFC file as
found here is on a higher level where simple geometry, coordination and collision detection between
several models are what is important.
Making a solution for BIM using IFC would not be a final product. The use of BIM is evolving and
many are yet to take their first steps with BIM (Smith, 2014). Being able to deliver a 3D model with some
basic attributes and properties set could be adequate today, but the areas of use may demand more in the
coming years. Would there be a need to have a certified IFC import or export (buildingSMART
International, n.d.-k) in Configura? This would not necessary be a goal in itself, as the main purpose at
this stage is to have a process meeting existing demands from the Configura users, and to be prepared for
possible future demands.
5.2 Method
During the thesis, and especially during the first half, much focus have been on the literature review.
Search tools for scientific research publications, like Google Scholar and UniSearch provided by the
library of Linköping University, were used to find relevant publications. Keywords like “IFC”, “BIM”,
36 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
“interoperability” and “systematic review” were used in different combinations. Only research in English
and Swedish was used and in some cases the more recent publications were filtered out. Internet was also
searched, but in a more unstructured way, using the Google search engine. The scientific publications were
considered as rather trustworthy as such publications often are scientifically reviewed before being
published. But the content was also judged to be reliable in comparison with other sources used in the
thesis. Sources related to websites were chosen more restrictively and those used in this thesis are mostly
coming from organizations and companies that were judged to be reliable, as for example the organization
behind IFC. As the literature review was not performed in a fully systematic way it is possible that
important information has been missed, and the researcher’s interests and decisions may have influenced
the selection of sources used in the thesis. Looking at the references used in the thesis, it would have made
up a good complement if information had been retrieved from a printed book within the research area as
well.
Considering the term replicability, the method used in this thesis have been described in Chapter 3 to
let anyone follow the method and as far as possible be able to replicate the method. An effort has also been
made to describe the research process, for example how different collection and analysis of data have been
performed. Considering the terms validity and reliability as described by Patel and Davidson (2011),
letting anyone follow this described research process will lead to a higher validity and increase the
credibility of the thesis. Considering external validity the findings can be useful in other cases than in just
this case, but it would be important to use other sources as well. There are for example not much mentioned
in the survey about potential problems with IFC, even if there are issues found concerning for example
geometrical problems with IFC (Khomiri & Löwstett, 2014; Pazlar & Turk, 2008). Possibly there are other
areas as well that can be found if involving different people. As already mentioned above, and also
discussed further in a section below, the Configura users participating in the survey were not really sure
of what they need regarding IFC in Configura. This may be a threat to the internal validity, and using
triangulation may be one way to address such issue.
Using different approaches to answer the research questions gave a wider possibility to interpret the
data and to use triangulation to find common perceptions. The archival data was used as a base, and in
some ways also inspired the questionnaire used in the survey. The interviews provided useful data to
consider and gave another perspective from a related data exchange scenario already present in Configura.
The questionnaire used in the survey was an important step to increase the understanding of IFC, as
requested by the customers of CSAB, and a good way to come further in the research and receive new
contacts. Receiving input from general contractors gave a view from the other side of the requested data
exchange and proved to be an important perspective in the study.
In the sections below are discussions regarding methods used related the two most valuable sources in
the study.
5.2.1 Survey
It showed to be difficult to find users requesting IFC that could provide accurate and clear statement of
what they need concerning IFC in Configura. As noted above, the respondents of the questionnaire are not
really sure of what they need. It is therefore a risk that they give information that may lead in wrong
directions. Based on what they have experienced and what they think they or someone else within their
organization need, they may give qualified guesses of their need. If the study would have consisted of the
survey only, it would be difficult to know if the results really tells what the users would need. But being
able to compare the answers in the questionnaire with other sources, the survey is considered to be
valuable.
After the first draft of the questionnaire was revised, examples were provided with some of the
questions. When providing an example there is a risk that the respondents are affected by the example, but
it was judged to be important to increase the understanding of the questions and reduce the risk of
respondents not answering the question as intended. Even with the examples, it showed to be difficult for
some respondents to answers a few questions. In some cases they maybe did not have an answer, but in
other cases several follow-up questions were needed to sort out their answers. Some questions could have
Chapter 5 Discussion 37
been written more clearly, but a possible explanation to some misunderstandings is that the questions were
too specific for those not fully familiar with IFC.
Were the right people answering the questionnaire? The selection in the survey was considered to be
relevant for the study, except when coming to the additional 21 users were only a few were expected to be
able to contribute to the study. To speed up the process all of these 21 users were sent the questionnaire,
but only those with experience or knowledge of BIM or IFC were asked to participate. The response rate
does not matter in this study, but having answers from respondents not really intended to answer could
possibly affect the results in a negative way. All respondents in the survey are considered to be among the
requested selection and have contributed to the results in a positive way, but it has also required time to
understand and analyze all answers.
Having in mind that the understanding and analysis of the questionnaires required its portion of time,
maybe there could have been more efficient ways to receive the required information. The initial plan was
to use the questionnaire as a first step to find people with deeper knowledge within the research area and
continue with more questions to them. But when receiving the answers it was considered as not likely to
be able to receive much deeper information from the respondents. Knowing this, the survey demanded too
much time that instead could have been used for other areas. The more cases to study, the less time there
is for each case to be studied (Eriksson & Wiedersheim-Paul, 2014). But this was difficult to predict at the
beginning and it is therefore still considered to be a good approach.
A remark can also be made about the archival data. One issue was not found before the survey was
close to an end. The issue creator is present in USA and was requesting a Revit export (that is, not being
able to use the RevLink extension). This customer could possibly have been included in the initial selection
even if not requesting IFC specifically, but as found too late the customer was not included in the survey.
The results of the survey could have a few answers from different respondents which in fact may have
the same origin. For example, when a project manager tells about a known request for an IFC files, it could
be the same request as another respondent mention. Some considerations have been made for this in for
example how the results is presented. But there is also a chance of interpreting the results a bit incorrect.
The results may be affected by this, but not to any greater extent.
One consideration to make when doing this kind of study is how respondents and other people involved
may build up expectations on what may follow after the study. That is, studying the requested use of IFC
in Configura may build up expectations on Configura to actually support IFC in the near future. This was
noted in this study and in some cases the purpose of the study had to be described even further to not set
the expectations too high.
This thesis is a study of the potential use of IFC as communication channel when Configura users are
collaborating with people in the building industry using BIM. The building industry is central in our
society and BIM is expected to become more important in the building industry in the coming years (Smith,
2014). This thesis can be a small contribution to an improved collaboration process in the building
industry.
39
Chapter 6
Conclusions
The study in this thesis have been concerning IFC requests among a few selected Configura users. As
qualitative data is used in the study, the results show how these requests may be considered in the specific
cases studied. To have more reliable data about the requests and different needs a quantitative study could
be performed, and to receive knowledge about how other potential scenarios may appear more cases could
be studied. But the number of requests about IFC that are known by CSAB so far is low, and the results in
this thesis indicate that the Configura users are not really sure of what they need to be able to use IFC in
Configura. Therefore, collecting more data from Configura users at this point may not provide much
deeper knowledge. Looking at more cases from the perspective of the receiving end, as for the contractors
in this study, could however lead to an increased understanding of what may be needed for a use of IFC
in Configura.
With this report CSAB will receive a better understanding of IFC and its use than what they have today.
The report may not give a clear view of how the Configura users want to work with IFC, but when
combining their requests with other sources a more comprehensive picture emerges. The report does not
give a complete description of how IFC may be implemented in Configura, but it sets the context and
provides a direction for what may be achieved using IFC. CSAB should be able to evaluate a possible use
of IFC in Configura and be assisted in a decision on how to move forward.
The context in this study is around the software Configura, but it may be applicable to similar scenarios
with other software applications as well. The report may therefore be of value to more than just CSAB and
when looking from other perspectives it can be used to triangulate needs concerning data exchange using
IFC.
6.1.2 How would users of Configura need to work with IFC in Configura?
Configura users need to base their work on other disciplines models, which in many cases will be the
architect’s IFC file. They will insert their products according to the content in the IFC file, but not much
is found in this study related to this step. Users will probably need to have positioning assistance when for
example placing their products towards walls in the IFC model, and they may need to be able to prepare
for an IFC export related to how objects shall be exported and what information to be supplied. When a
drawing is completed the users must be able to export their products as an IFC file. An IFC export from
Configura shall only include products from Configura, it will be up to another application to integrate
these products in a coordination BIM. To be able to integrate Configura’s model with other disciplines’
models, it is important to use a common zero point and coordinate system. Simple graphical representation
of the products is important and the products shall be delivered with a basic set of information.
Figure 6-1. One of many possible workflows with a contractor as central actor, simplified and as
perceived by the researcher. In the example, the Configura model in step 7 forces a revised MEP model.
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47
Appendix A
Interview guides
This appendix contains the interview guides used during the two interviews in the study.
Appendix B
Survey
This appendix contains the introduction and the two different version of the questionnaire that were sent
to the participants in the survey.
B.1 Introduction
Hello!
My name is Henrik Jensen and I am currently doing a thesis work for Configura Sverige AB. In this thesis
I am studying the requested use of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) in Configura and CET Designer. I
have been working with Configura for several years and have now chosen to proceed with this thesis.
IFC is an open standard within Building Information Modeling (BIM) to exchange data between different
software applications. BuildingSMART is the neutral and not-for-profit organization responsible for the
IFC standard.
IFC is a part of what is marketed as “openBIM”. For a short introduction of what openBIM is about, please
follow the link below. You will there also find a 4 minute video explaining the concept, and how IFC is a
part of openBIM.
http://www.buildingsmart.org/standards/technical-vision/
The purpose of the study is to help us to better understand how our users want to work with a possible
solution supporting IFC. Out of this purpose we are searching for users of Configura and CET Designer
with potential knowledge or experience of BIM, or IFC in particular. Your contribution is important for
the result of the study and we are thankful if you choose to participate. If you have knowledge of users
within your organization that you believe would contribute to the study, please do not hesitate to let
us know!
The study is in form of a questionnaire, but there can be some follow-up questions to your answers if you
give your permission. The questionnaire can be answered directly in the document accompanied with this
letter, and the result can be sent via email to [email protected]. You can also use this address
if you have any question about the questionnaire.
Participation in this study is voluntary and can be stopped at any time. The result of the study will not be
used to identify individual participants or companies. If you choose to participate, please answer the
questionnaire as soon as possible, or at least within one week from today.
Kind regards
Henrik Jensen
2 April 2015
50 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
Background (part 1 of 3)
1. What is your role within your company?
2. How often would you say you are you using Configura or CET Designer?
3. Have you got any experience working with BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, and if
so, what software?
4. Have you got any experience or knowledge of the open standard IFC (Industry Foundation
Classes) used within BIM? If so, please describe briefly about your experiences or what you
know.
Background (part 1 of 3)
1. What is your role within your company?
2. How often would you say you are you using Configura or CET Designer?
3. Have you got any experience working with BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, and if
so, what software?
4. Have you got any experience or knowledge of the open standard IFC (Industry Foundation
Classes) used within BIM? If so, please describe briefly about your experiences or what you
know.
Appendix C
General contractors
This appendix contains the follow-up questions that were sent to the two general contractors in the study.
C.1 Contractor A
Material to our users:
Are you usually able to provide an IFC file that a quotation can be based on? If yes:
o Is it an IFC file containing all information, or just a part of the complete model? Is it for
example a simplified floor plan containing walls, stairs and possibly furnishing for all
floors?
o In addition to 3D models, do you see any other important information we should take
into account based on data in the IFC file?
o Could you provide us an IFC file, as an example of how a file may look that you send
when requesting a quotation.
Material from our users:
Should the IFC file that you request contain only the relevant products, or should the products be
integrated with the IFC file supplied with your quotation request (that is, if an IFC file was
attached)?
Does it matter how the products are divided in the IFC file? If yes:
o How would you prefer to have the products divided? For example all products in one big
group, or divided by product types like cabinet, countertops, appliances etcetera.
What attributes or properties do you wish to have set for the products? For example manufacturer,
product name, product number, price, etcetera.
C.2 Contractor B
Material to our users:
Are you usually able to provide an IFC file that a quotation can be based on? If yes:
o Is it an IFC file containing all information, or just a part of the complete model? Is it for
example a simplified floor plan containing walls, stairs and possibly furnishing for all
floors?
o In addition to 3D models, do you see any other important information we should take
into account based on data in the IFC file?
o Could you provide us an IFC file, as an example of how a file may look that you send
when requesting a quotation.
Material from our users:
Does it matter how the products are divided in the IFC file? If yes:
54 Industry Foundation Classes - A study of its requested use in Configura
o How would you prefer to have the products divided? For example all products in one big
group, or divided by product types like cabinet, countertops, appliances etcetera.
What attributes or properties do you wish to have set for the products? For example manufacturer,
product name, product number, price, etcetera
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