This IFC to gbXML converter is a result of research performed during my graduation project at the Eindhoven University of Technology. The converter aims to create an improved interoperability between BIM and whole-building energy analysis by translating the open exchange format IFC to a validated gbXML file format. Relationships between gbXML elements and corresponding IFC entities are created and linkages are established by iterating over multiple IFC entities.
Author: Maarten Visschers
The current version of the converter is Python based without a GUI, with the script you are able to run the IFC-to-gbXML conversion. Supported are:
- The IFC2X3_TC1 schema (http://www.buildingsmart-tech.org/ifc/IFC2x3/TC1/html/index.htm);
- The gbXML 6.01 schema (http://www.gbxml.org/Schema_Current_GreenBuildingXML_gbXML).
What to do:
For the operation of the converter it is needed to include 2nd level space boundaries (IfcRelSpaceBoundary) in the IFC file. This entity is used to create explicit geometry for the gbXML schema. More details can be found by using the provided test cases and studying the thesis.
Capabilities:
- Be compatible with IFC2x3_TC1 files;
- Process basic IFC building elements (e.g. walls and floors);
- Convert implicit to explicit geometric information (to comply with gbXML);
- Process IFC window and opening elements;
- Write valid information according to the official gbXML schema;
- Create gbXML files which are suitable for whole-building energy simulation in DesignBuilder;
- Include gbXML construction types with each their corresponding layer and materials;
- Include thermal properties (e.g. IFC analytical property sets).
For more information, please contact maartenvisschers@hotmail.com, or file an issue in the repository.