Construction and civil design is undergoing a significant transformation thanks to methodologies and tools that foster collaboration and interoperability. Among these,OpenBIM stands out as an approach that uses open standards, such as the IFC format, to streamline design processes and facilitate dialogue between different professionals and software. This article will explore the capabilities of OpenBIM and IFC the benefits for professionals in the field, and the role of innovative solutions such as the Orbyta OpenBIM Viewer, to provide you with a comprehensive guide to this digital transformation process.
BIM and OpenBIM: the transformation of the construction industry
What is Building Information Modeling?
BIM, short for Building Information Modeling, is a digital process for creating and managing the virtual model of a building, incorporating geometric data and technical information useful throughout the project life cycle. Unlike traditional methods based on 2D drawings, BIM incorporates details on materials, cost, construction time and energy performance. This makes it an essential tool for designing, constructing, and maintaining buildings more effectively and sustainably.
Through OpenBIM, BIM expands further, facilitating communication between software and professionals regardless of the platform used.
From 2025, the new BIM regulations which stipulates the mandatory use of BIM for works above 2 million euros
What is OpenBIM and why it is critical in design
OpenBIM is an innovative methodology based on the use of open standards, such as the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) format, that promotes collaboration among the different professionals involved in the project. The Open approach overcomes the limitations of proprietary software, improvinginteroperability and simplifying information sharing throughout the project lifecycle.
OpenBIM represents an open design paradigm in which BIM data and models are shared using universal and accessible standards. This ensures that files can be opened, read and edited regardless of the software used, reducing compatibility issues.
OpenBIM vs Closed BIM: what are the differences?
OpenBIM
uses open standards, such as IFC and BCF (BIM Collaboration Format), to ensure interoperability and transparency.
Closed BIM
relies on proprietary formats tied to specific software, limiting collaboration with other tools.
IFC BIM: the open standard that facilitates interoperability
The IFC format is a fundamental pillar of OpenBIM, being the standardized format that enables the exchange of information between different software in the BIM environment. It is developed by buildingSMART International and is widely used globally.
IFC is an open data format that describes the geometric and non-geometric characteristics of a BIM model. It also allows architectural, structural and plant elements to be represented, facilitating the exchange of information between software and multidisciplinary teams.
The most commonly used versions are:
- IFC2x3: compatible with many software, it is still a widely adopted standard
- IFC4: improves data representation and interoperability over the previous version by being more detailed and future-oriented.
Each version is backward compatible, but the choice often depends on the software and project requirements.
The benefits of OpenBIM in construction and civil design
Why adopt OpenBIM? Because it offers a range of benefits from increased interoperability between software to more effective collaboration between professionals.
Let us therefore analyze the main advantages:
- Interoperability between software and formats: industry professionals can work with different software while maintaining full data compatibility. The result is reduced likelihood of errors and greater control throughout the project lifecycle.
- Collaboration among professionals and data management: the use of open standards facilitates the exchange of information across disciplines. For example, architectural designs can be integrated with plant designs without compromising data integrity.
- The impact on efficiency and sustainability: in fact, OpenBIM enables optimization of design processes, reducing waste and time. It also promotes more sustainable design by fostering informed decisions based on accurate model analyses.
Orbyta OpenBIM Viewer: the added value in digital project management
Orbyta OpenBIM Viewer is an innovative web platform developed by Orbyta Tech and Orbyta Engineering. Orbyta OpenBIM Viewer enables intuitive and collaborative visualization, analysis, and management of BIM models in IFC format.
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