BIM (Building Information Modeling) refers to the entire process of planning, creating, and optimizing constructions and infrastructures using various software tools. The geometric model (the 3D rendering of the infrastructure) is accompanied by data for each individual component: properties and characteristics that follow a standardized format, allowing software to correctly interpret the information related to the relevant geometric part. In this article, we will discuss what an IDS (Information Delivery Specification) is namely, the standard for defining all the project requirements related to objects, classifications, materials, properties, and values, to enable data exchange among various stakeholders and ensure that the geometric model complies with these requirements.
IDS: What It Is
IDS is a format, a process standard, promoted by buildingSMART, which plays a role in the exchange and validation of the aforementioned informational requirements. The process starts from a “raw” document that contains all the data related to a project and the BIM characteristics it should have. This document lists all the parts of the project divided by materials used, dimensions, types, and so on.
This document is used to generate the ICS file, which follows the requirements defined by the client (Exchange Requirement). However, it may contain errors, cause misunderstandings, or be unreadable by BIM software. Therefore, it must be “modeled” according to standards to be properly interpreted and then validated. In simple terms, the raw document, converted into ICS and containing all the properties and types of each part of a project’s geometric model, is shaped to meet the project’s requirements.
The IDS Model Creation Process and Stakeholders Involved
As described in the previous paragraph, the process begins with a Client who prepares specifications at the tender stage, clearly outlining the elements to be modeled and the acceptable or unacceptable value ranges, thus generating an ICS file.
Once the ICS specifications are received, a Modeler interprets the requests and, starting from a geometric model, possibly derived from an IFC file, creates a compliant model that meets all the Client’s requirements—achieving alignment between the ICS file data and the geometric model. The output is an IFC file containing both geometry and IDS parameters.
Finally, a Validator is responsible for validating the model created by the Modeler using the specified requirements. This last step is automated, based on clear and computerized rules, and provides immediate feedback. The Validator receives as input the IFC file (geometry + IDS parameters) and the IDS file, and produces as output a report and a BCF file (BIM Collaboration Format).
Client
Modeler
Validator
Purpose of IDS: What It Is For
The main purpose of IDS is to ensure that Clients receive models that comply with building SMART standards and can be used in the later stages of the BIM project. It enables optimized validation of IFC models, as all information is exchanged throughout the entire lifecycle of the project to be developed.
GeoStru GeoDropBox will be updated
An update will arrive on the GeoDropBox cloud documentation platform that will include the management and modelling of IDS files. Currently there is already a viewer for IFC files, i.e. the three-dimensional model.
On GeoDropBox you will be able to:
- Create IDS file requirements;
- Model the IDS file created or imported from other services on an IFC geometry file;
- Validate the model through automated procedures and create a report of detected problems through a BCF link
