Converting DWG files to IFC, IGES, IGS errors

[archivist]

Hello, I am an architectural archivist - not an architect.

 

I am trying to convert dwg files to IFC. I just export to IFC in AutoCAD 2012. It then creates an IFC file and a log file. The IFC file then doesn't open in AutoCAD. Why is this? Also, this is what the log file says and I'd like to know what this means:

 

[DefaultDomain: ]EXPORT STARTED: 2/17/2014 2:50:27 PM

 

[DefaultDomain: ]

=============

Object Count:

=============

- AcDbBlockReference : Total: (287) Fail: (287)

- AcDbRay : Total: (2) Fail: (2)

- AcDbSolid : Total: (4)

** = Object classified as other IFC object.

[DefaultDomain: ]EXPORT ENDED: 2/17/2014 2:50:30 PM

 

In addition, under Export, if I select Other Formats, and try to export to IGES or IGS, nothing happens. Why is this? and what is the difference between the two files?

 

Thanks for your help, I am only trying to preserve some architectural history

[ReMark]

Interesting that in 2012 one can export to an IFC file format but there does not appear to be the same option in 2014. I wonder why. Can you tell me where you found that option as I'd like to try it myself.

[archivist]

ReMark, if you just do Command export then no IFC isn't in the list. but IGES and IGS are there- does that work for you?

 

I found IFC by going to the top left AutoCAD "A" button, clicking Export, and in that list among other filetypes is IFC. Let me know what happens for you.

[ReMark]

I can export to those two formats but I've never had the need to nor have I actually tested it.

 

That's where I looked. IFC does not appear on the list.

 

OK...quick test. I can export to the IGES format.

[archivist]

Interesting. I don't have the answer for you; perhaps it was built in to 2012, or perhaps my firm paid for a plugin to get it. Interesting (and annoying) how IGES or IGS doesn't work for me. Hm.

[ReMark]

Did you test the ability to export to the IGES file format using a small test drawing? Maybe the problem is with the drawing not with the procedure.

 

I don't see any of those file types listed under Export in AutoCAD 2010.

 

AutoCAD 2013 is the same as 2014...no IFC but the other two are listed. I do not have 2011 or 2012 loaded on my work computer.

[archivist]

Maybe your AutoCAD is something different? I think there are different types. We have AutoCAD Architectural. But I heard you can do different things with other programs like AutoCAD Mechanical.

[ReMark]

Yeah, mine is different. It's plain old AutoCAD.

[archivist]

Well that sucks. I don't understand why AutoCAD can't have IFC and 3dPDF built into everything.

 

And I have tried using drawings as examples to convert to IGES or IGS, but nothing happens. I know that IGES only works for certain types of drawings, so maybe my problem is the drawings. I have no idea how to tell what kind they are though, mesh or otherwise.

[ReMark]

So these are 3D drawings?

 

Did you do a LIST on an object or click on an object and check its Properties?

[archivist]

I don't think they are 3d actually. There is usually a model tab and a layout tab, the layout tab being an architectural drawing ready for plotting. Therefore since it can be printed on paper, I guess it's not 3d.

 

I will try to do a LIST on the object and check its Properties. I didn't know I could do that. I haven't been trained in AutoCAD, I'm just learning it myself, and only for the purposes of converting drawings for long time preservation.

[ReMark]

There could be a 3D model in model space and multiple 2D view in the layout. Don't be fooled. Look at the model space objects.

[halam]

Hello,

Picking up this all discussion because i need to convert to DWG geometry to IFC because it's needed by others in other (non AutoDesk) software..

Now ACA is history .. Do i really need Sketchup to import convert DWG to IFC ?!

[ReMark]

I believe an active drawing in AutoCAD Architecture can be exported to IFC.

[halam]

Yes the whole DWG structure in fact. Revit can also do IFC, everything else can do it to. Sketchup : DWG in => IFC out. att.

Will have to wait for BricsCAD to start something to 3d DWG IFC ..