Table of Contents

Real World Map

The Real World Map feature places your IFC model on top of a real-world 3D map using the location data already stored in the IFC file.

This makes it easier to:

  • verify that a project is positioned correctly
  • compare the model against its surrounding context
  • understand how the building relates to nearby roads, buildings, and landscape

Real World Map example

How It Works

When a model contains usable geolocation, the viewer can show it in its real-world context on the map.

In most cases, this happens automatically when the IFC file includes valid georeferencing data and location information.

Supported IFC Location Data

The feature supports the most common IFC geolocation methods.

IFC4 Models

For IFC4-based files, the viewer can use coordinate reference system (CRS) information stored in the IFC model.

This is the preferred option for accurate real-world placement.

IFC2X3 Models

For IFC2X3 files, the viewer can use location values stored in IfcSite, such as:

  • reference latitude
  • reference longitude
  • reference elevation

Coordinate System Support

The viewer can convert supported projected coordinate systems into map coordinates for display on the real-world map.

Current support includes:

  • EPSG:28992
  • EPSG:8395
  • EPSG:27700

If the IFC file contains another EPSG code, placement may still work when the coordinate system can be resolved successfully.

What You Need in the IFC File

For reliable placement, your IFC model should include at least one of these:

  • valid IFC4 map conversion / CRS data
  • valid IfcSite latitude and longitude
  • usable elevation information

The more complete the geolocation data is, the more accurate the result will be.

Terrain Placement

The model is displayed so it sits naturally within the real-world map view.

This helps the model align more naturally with:

  • ground level
  • surrounding buildings
  • local site context

If elevation data is available in the IFC file, the vertical position can be more accurate.

Best Results

For the best placement quality:

  • export IFC files with georeferencing enabled
  • include CRS or IfcSite location data
  • include elevation if available
  • verify that the source model uses the correct project coordinate system

Known Limitations

  • Placement quality depends on the geolocation quality stored in the IFC file.
  • Some coordinate systems may not be supported if the EPSG reference is missing or unclear.

Troubleshooting

Model appears in the wrong location

Check whether the IFC file contains:

  • the correct latitude and longitude
  • the correct CRS or EPSG reference
  • the intended project base point / survey point settings from the authoring tool

Model does not appear on the map

Possible reasons:

  • the IFC file does not contain usable geolocation data
  • the coordinate system could not be resolved