IfcBuildingElement
What is IfcBuildingElement?
IfcBuildingElement is the abstract supertype for all physical building elements that are part of the building fabric. It serves as the parent class for walls, slabs, beams, columns, doors, windows, stairs, roofs, and other structural and architectural components. IfcBuildingElement itself is never instantiated directly.
Real-World Usage
As an abstract type, IfcBuildingElement is used in software for type checking and classification. When filtering IFC models, querying for IfcBuildingElement returns all physical building components — useful for generating complete element counts.
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IfcWall
IfcWall represents a vertical construction element that bounds or subdivides spaces. Walls are one of the most fundamental building elements in any IFC model, defining the physical envelope and internal partitioning of a building. IfcWall can represent both load-bearing structural walls and non-load-bearing partitions.
Building ElementIfcSlab
IfcSlab represents a horizontal construction element that forms the floor, roof, or landing of a building. Slabs can be classified as floor slabs, roof slabs, landing slabs, or base slabs (foundations). They are typically the largest elements by area in a building model.
Building ElementIfcBeam
IfcBeam represents a horizontal or inclined structural member that carries loads primarily by bending. Beams span between columns, walls, or other supports and are fundamental to the structural system of a building. They can be made of steel, concrete, timber, or composite materials.
Building ElementIfcColumn
IfcColumn represents a vertical structural member that transmits loads from beams and slabs to the foundation. Columns are key elements in the structural grid of a building and can be made of concrete, steel, timber, or composite materials.
Building ElementIfcDoor
IfcDoor represents a construction element that is used to close an opening in a wall or partition. Doors provide access between spaces and carry properties about their operation type (single swing, double swing, sliding, revolving), fire rating, and accessibility compliance.
Building ElementIfcWindow
IfcWindow represents a construction element placed in a wall opening to allow light and ventilation. Windows carry properties about their glazing type, thermal performance, operation type (fixed, casement, sliding), and dimensions.