During the implementation of BIM, multiple BIM-related software tools are used to address the diverse needs of all project stakeholders. This inevitably requires data exchange between different BIM platforms. Ensuring the integrity of data during these exchanges is essential to prevent data loss and errors. To achieve seamless integration, the exchanged data must adhere to common formats. Currently, based on the openness of data exchange formats, BIM software data exchange methods can be categorized into two main types:
1. Data exchange based on publicly available international standards: This approach is compatible with software from various companies, covering different disciplines and project phases. It offers broad adaptability. Common public BIM data exchange formats include IFC and COBIE.
For example, the IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) format is an open, transparent data exchange standard developed by the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI) for the construction engineering sector. It serves as a reliable medium for data exchange throughout the entire BIM lifecycle. IFC is widely recognized and supported globally, making it an international standard in the construction industry. Most leading BIM software products support the IFC format.
Besides IFC, the COBIE standard is recognized by the American Academy of Building Sciences as a data exchange format that spans the BIM construction delivery phase through to operation and maintenance management.
2. Data exchange based on proprietary file formats: This method supports data interaction only within software from the same vendor. Due to the specialized nature of BIM software, no single product can cover all BIM lifecycle requirements. Proprietary formats typically facilitate interaction between specific software products. While public formats remain primary, proprietary formats supplement data exchange where public standards are unsupported.
For instance, Autodesk’s software products use proprietary formats such as DWG and NWC. Revit’s data model can be exported into multiple formats, each suited for different software interactions. Specifically, data exchange between Revit and Navisworks can use formats like DWF, IFC, and NWC. Navisworks can open Revit files directly and automatically generates NWC cache files to enhance performance.
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