How to Upgrade an IFC File from IFC2x3 to IFC4
Convert older IFC2x3 models to the newer IFC4 format for better compatibility with modern tools.
IFC2x3 has been the standard for over a decade, but many newer tools and platforms now require or prefer IFC4. If you have an older model that needs to work with modern software, BIMCamel can convert it.
When to upgrade
- A platform or tool requires IFC4 format.
- You want to use IFC4-specific features like improved geometry or better property definitions.
- You are archiving models and want to use the latest standard.
How to upgrade
- Upload your IFC2x3 file.
- (Optional) Run IFC Viewer to confirm the current schema version.
- Open the Upgrade to IFC4 tool.
- Click Run. BIMCamel converts the schema, maps entity types, and produces a valid IFC4 file.
What changes during the upgrade
- Entity type names are updated (for example, some IFC2x3 classes were renamed or reorganized in IFC4).
- Property set definitions are mapped to their IFC4 equivalents.
- Geometry representations are preserved as closely as possible.
Things to check after upgrading
- Open the new file in your target viewer to confirm everything looks correct.
- Run IFC Viewer again to verify the schema version is IFC4.
- Some very old or non-standard IFC2x3 constructs may not have exact IFC4 equivalents. Review the conversion log for any warnings.
The original IFC2x3 file is never modified. BIMCamel always creates a new file for the converted version.