iDECAD to Revit BIM Interoperability: IFC Export & Structural Coordination
Seamlessly bridge structural design models from iDECAD into Autodesk Revit. A step-by-step guide on IFC schema parameters, grid alignment, and material mapping.
Interoperability between analytical structural software and BIM coordination tools is essential for modern AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) workflows. Transporting reinforced concrete and steel models from iDECAD into Autodesk Revit requires specific IFC export configurations to prevent geometric displacement and missing parameters.
1. Configuring IFC Export Parameters in iDECAD
Before running the export, ensure all structural elements (columns, shear walls, beams, slabs) are correctly assigned to their respective building levels. Export using the IFC 2x3 Coordination View 2.0 or IFC4 schema to retain structural family metadata and spatial coordinates.
2. Section Mapping & Family Matching in Revit
When importing the IFC file into Revit, custom structural sections may be flagged as generic models. Utilize Revit's IFC Options Mapping File to bind iDECAD structural profiles directly to native Revit Structural Column and Structural Framing families.
3. Grid Origin & Elevation Alignment
Coordinate offsets often cause imported elements to floating off-axis. Always lock the global origin point (Project Base Point / Survey Point) in iDECAD prior to export to ensure zero-point alignment with architectural Revit link files.