ifcxml

IFCXML is an XML-based data format derived from the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard, which is widely used in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. IFC is an open, neutral file format designed to facilitate the exchange of building and facility design information between different software applications. IFCXML serves as a textual representation of IFC data, allowing for easier human-readable and machine-processable interchange of information.

The IFC standard itself is defined using the EXPRESS data modeling language, which describes the structure and relationships of building elements such as walls, doors, windows, and spatial zones. IFCXML translates these EXPRESS-based models into XML, making the data more accessible for applications that rely on XML-based standards. This format is particularly useful for web services, data integration, and platforms that require a structured yet flexible data exchange mechanism.

One of the key advantages of IFCXML is its ability to preserve the hierarchical and relational nature of IFC data while enabling compatibility with XML-based technologies. It supports the exchange of detailed geometric, topological, and semantic information about building projects, ensuring that critical design intent is maintained across different software tools. However, IFCXML files can become large and complex due to the detailed nature of building information they contain, which may impact performance in some applications.

IFCXML is supported by various industry tools, including Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, data conversion utilities, and web-based platforms. It is often used alongside other IFC-related formats, such as the binary IFC format (IFC2binary), to balance readability and efficiency. While IFCXML is not as compact as binary formats, its clarity and extensibility make it a valuable asset for collaborative workflows in the AEC industry.