What Is a Model View Definition (MVD)?

A Model View Definition (or MVD) is a specific implementation of the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) schema designed to support specific uses of IFC data.

MVDs are used to define how IFC data should be exchanged between different software applications to ensure interoperability. They specify the data required and its structure for specific use cases, such as architectural design, structural analysis or energy analysis.

Types of MVDs

There are several basic types of MVDs, for example:

• Coordination View: Facilitates design coordination between the architectural, structural and building services domains.
• Reference View: Provides a simplified geometric and relational representation for design coordination.

MVD Database

buildingSMART's MVD Database contains several MVDs, each tailored to specific exchange requirements. Examples include IFC4Precast for precast construction components and Design Transfer View for transferring model information between tools.

Software Implementation

Software vendors implement MVDs to ensure their applications can exchange IFC data accurately and correctly. This implementation is crucial for achieving interoperability and is the basis for IFC Software Certification.

Archicad and MVDs

Archicad supports importing and exporting IFC data using MVDs. This enables efficient exchange of 3D elements and related non-geometric data between different software applications, ensuring smooth interoperability on BIM projects.

Typical Problems of Not Using MVDs

1. Interoperability Issues: Without MVDs, different software applications may fail to interpret IFC data correctly, leading to communication problems and errors in data exchange

2. Data Loss: Important information could be lost during data transfer between applications if the data structure and requirements aren't clearly defined.

3. Increased Errors: A lack of standardised data exchange can generate errors and inconsistencies in the BIM model, affecting the reliability of the information it contains.

4. Inefficiency: Without MVDs, the data exchange process can become inefficient and time-consuming, as manual adjustments and corrections may be needed to ensure compatibility.

5. Higher Costs: The need for additional manual work and error correction can lead to increased project costs and delays.

6. Reduced Collaboration: Effective collaboration between different disciplines (for example, architects, engineers, contractors) can be hindered without a shared understanding and standard for data exchange.

7. Certification Challenges: Achieving IFC Software Certification can be difficult without complying with MVDs, since they're essential for ensuring software applications meet the standards required for data exchange.

Using MVDs, these problems can be avoided, ensuring a smoother, more reliable and more efficient data exchange process on BIM projects.