Geolocating an IFC file

This guide provides the steps to convert and geolocate an IFC file within Revit to prepare it for use in DroneDeploy.

Convert IFC file into Revit

1. Open a new Revit file and link the IFC file you want to convert.

   • Revit will create a temporary file in the folder where the IFC file is saved. This temporary Revit file is what you will need for the next steps.

Identify a coordinate

Identify a coordinate (including the elevation) from your DroneDeploy map that you can use to define the building location.

Tip: You can use a benchmark coordinate from your civil CAD file if available.

Set up the model to the correct location

1. Open a new Revit model to avoid affecting any existing models.

2. Unhide your Project Base Point and Survey Point.

3. Unclip your Survey Point.
   

4. Insert the coordinates you recorded in the previous step, including the elevation.
   

5. Clip the Survey Point again.

6. In a plan view, go to Manage > Position > Relocate Project.

7. Move your project to the Survey Point.

(Optional) Link a civil CAD file

• Link a civil CAD file by shared coordinates where the benchmark has the same position as the Survey Point in your Revit model.

• If the CAD file benchmark aligns with your Survey Point, you have confirmation that the location is correct.

Link in the temporary Revit file

1. Move your Project Base Point to a known building control point relative to your Survey Point.

2. Link the temporary Revit file (your IFC file) by shared coordinates.

3. Locate the model in your view and publish coordinates to it.
   

4. Click on Publish Coordinates, then on your linked model.

   • Click on the linked model and move it to the desired location (if you have a grid point or a building control point set up for your Project Base Point, click that same point in your link).

5. When your model is in the right spot, save your positions back to the linked file.

   • Select the linked file in Manage Links, then the Save Positions button should become available.
     

6. Save and close your Revit file.

Export the linked model to IFC

1. Open your linked Revit model.

2. Select Export to IFC.
   

3. Choose an IFC Version 2x3 or IFC Version 4 option.
   

4. Check any applicable boxes, ensuring at least the following box is checked:
   

5. Export using shared Coordinates under Geographic References.

6. Ensure the export file size is under 300 MB and upload it to DroneDeploy.

V2.2