Prepare IFC geometry for STEP
The IFC-to-STEP route uses the IFC reader, mesh preparation and the STEP writer. Choose the geometry and representation required by the destination application. STEP can carry mesh data as well as BRep; this route does not imply recovery of analytic CAD surfaces from a mesh.
Read the IFC model through the IFC interface and select the building elements needed by the recipient. Inspect the imported geometry and element placements before preparing a scene or polygonal derivative.
Configure the STEP geometry and document mapping
Use existing meshes or tessellate supported imported BRep surfaces. Keep object placement consistent across the selected building model, and choose mesh detail suitable for the scale and use of the output.
Write the imported model through the OCCT STEP interface. STEP supports BRep and mesh workflows, so choose the representation supported by the receiving application. Use the document layer when names, colors and assembly relationships are available and need to be transferred.
Validate the converted model
Compare geometry coverage, unit scale and positioning. BIM relationships, classifications and property sets require explicit retention checks; a polygonal file is not a replacement for the complete IFC model.
Reopen the STEP file in the destination and compare geometry coverage, placements, names and colors. A mesh representation remains polygonal inside STEP. If the next task requires solid modeling, verify that the source and output contain the required BRep geometry.
For repeated jobs, retain the source, preparation settings and representative output checks. Discuss this conversion with the input files, destination application and required geometry and attributes.