How to coordinate models with Survey points

How to coordinate models with Survey points

When using models with survey points, it's essential that all involved parties are aware of this and work in accordance with this survey point.

Since the coordination of different models has been improved a lot in recent software versions, please make sure that you and your team members use the latest version of your BIM tool as well as the latest BCF Managers version.

Some advice when coordinating models with survey points:
  1. Use IFC files in Navisworks

Revit

  1. Use Survey Point when exporting a Revit file to IFC. This can be set in the Revit IFC export options: Modify Setup > General > Coordinate Base
  2. Include the IFCSITE elevation when exporting to IFC. This option can be selected in Revit IFC export options: Modify Setup > Advanced
  3. Avoid working with multiple Revit versions if the True North is rotated. IFCs exported with respect to Survey Point or True North, from different Revit versions are not compatible with each other, see image bellow.
    If working with multiple revit versions, and a rotated True North, use Project Base Point in the Revit export options: Modify Setup > General > Coordinate Base

For recommendations about coordinating models from Revit, consult the article Use models from Revit for model coordination

Archicad (24 and older)

  1. Use the Archicad survey point object
    When importing IFC files into Archicad, a standard library object is placed when an (imported) IFC file contains a survey point. The default setting in this object is set to use the Project North. Turn this off before exporting the IFC file.
    Additionally, make sure there is only one survey point present in the Archicad file before creating issues from the BCF Manager in Archicad

    For recommendations about Archicad 25 and more recent versions, consult the article Use models from Archicad for model coordination


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