OpenAEC: Integrity & Interoperability
Observations by Tashayani Ratnakumar, AcePLP Code Checker Squad
Tool Overview
OpenAEC is a specialized cloud platform built for validation and data standardization. Unlike standard viewers, it focuses on the intersection of openBIM standards (IFC, IDS, bSDD) and model quality. It allows users to not only identify data gaps but also directly resolve them through automated property assignment.
Where This Tool Fits in an openBIM Workflow
OpenAEC sits in the Quality Assurance (QA) and Data Management stage of an openBIM workflow. Typical placement:
- Downstream of model authoring: To verify if models meet Information Delivery Specifications (IDS).
- As a bridge for data correction: To fix missing or incorrect parameters before final submission.
- A centralized hub for bSDD creation: Building systematic data dictionaries for industry-wide use.
- Iterative validation cycles: Ensuring models remain compliant as they evolve through different project stages.
IFC & Interoperability Observations
OpenAEC is built natively on open standards:
- Consumption & Validation: It consumes IFC models to perform automated checks against IDS files created within the platform or imported from external tools.
- Data Enrichment: A standout capability is the “Load IDS” feature, which allows users to write property changes back into the IFC model.
- Requirement Alignment: The platform provides a structured environment where users can verify that specific IFC entities contain the exact metadata defined in the project’s information requirements.
- Standardized Output: Once validated and corrected, the enriched IFC can be exported, ensuring the data is ready for downstream applications that rely on high-fidelity openBIM files.
Key Strengths Observed in Practice
- Integrated UI Experience: A new toggle allows users to switch instantly between Coordination Mode and Validation Mode, unifying the workflow.
- Automated Fixes: The ability to auto-correct or fill missing IFC attributes based on IDS requirements can save significant time in repetitive QA tasks.
- bSDD Builder: The bSDD tool is a systematic builder that produces .json files, making it easy to create classes and properties without manual string entry for hundreds of values.
- Direct CDE Links: Seamlessly connects with Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and Box, facilitating file management without manual uploads.
Limitations & Considerations
- Performance with Scale: Large models can lead to lag, and page refreshes are occasionally required for updates to take effect.
- Measurement Precision: Measurement tools are currently limited to highlighted nodes, which may reduce precision compared to full authoring software.
- Validation Dependencies: The success of auto-correction and validation is highly dependent on the “health” of the IDS file; empty templates or invalid data types will cause errors.
- Beta Features: Some sections, such as the infrastructure-specific dashboard, are currently being overhauled to better support international markets.
Best-Fit Use Cases
OpenAEC is well-suited for:
- Systematic Model Validation: Checking IFCs against complex IDS requirements.
- Batch Data Enrichment: Using the bSDD builder to manage large property libraries and systematic data entry.
- Cloud-Based QA: Teams using ACC or Box who need to perform quick checks and attribute fixes without opening authoring tools.
- Standardization: Organizations aiming to produce high-quality, compliant IFC exports for openBIM delivery.
Relationship to Compliance & Checking Workflows
OpenAEC supports compliance workflows by allowing teams to bridge the gap between “as-modelled” data and “as-required” data. By validating and fixing IFC attributes early in the cloud, it helps ensure that models meet specific project requirements (IDS) before they reach formal coordination milestones. The recent UI update makes this validation process a central, integrated part of the model review experience.
How This Review Was Developed
This review is based on:
- Hands-on testing of the paid web platform by the AcePLP team.
- Clarifications provided by the OpenAEC team regarding unit handling, bSDD functionality, and UI updates.
- Observations focused on openBIM (IFC, IDS, and bSDD) interoperability.
Community Feedback & Engagement
If you have used OpenAEC’s new integrated interface or tried the auto-correction features, we welcome your perspectives on how it performs in a live project environment.
Neutrality Statement
This review is intended to support industry understanding of openBIM workflows. It does not constitute endorsement, certification, or compliance assurance.
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