How to Export Navisworks viewpoints to BCF

This step by step guide will show you an easy way to export Navisworks viewpoints to BCFs that is compatible with any OpenBIM based software or solutions supporting BCF.

If you have not yet installed the Vrex plugin for Autodesk Navisworks, you can download it here.

Vrex plugin for Autodesk Navisworks enables you to export any Navisworks viewpoints into BCF.

  1. Start Autodesk Navisworks Manage or Autodesk Navis Simulate
  2. Load the project with the models of which you want to export the viewpoints
  3. Select the VREX tab from the top ribbon
  4. Click the Synchronisation button in the top right to open the Plug-in
  5. Click on Export Viewpoints in the top right corner

Select all the viewpoints you want to Export from Autodesk Navisworks to BCF

  1. Select the viewpoints you want to include in the BCF export
  2. If you want to include an image, select ‘Include Snapshots’
  3. Click the ‘Export BCF’ button

Save your exported viewpoints to your computer as a BCF.

  1. Select the folder where you want to save the BCF export
  2. Give it a name and click ‘Save’

That’s it. You now have an Export of your viewpoints as a BCF that is compatible with most solutions.

Export Navisworks viewpoints to BCF - Any limitations?

The BCF format has a defined schema that may not include all the properties and attributes available in a Navisworks viewpoint. For instance, Navisworks might allow for advanced visual effects or configurations that do not have a direct equivalent in BCF, making a 1:1 translation of viewpoints challenging.

This will be included in the export:

  • The first Snapshot
  • Viewpoint name
  • Viewpoint description
  • Camera position and angle
  • Up to 3 sectioning planes

Why Export Navisworks Viewpoints to BCF

OpenBIM is a collaborative approach to the design, construction, and operation of buildings based on open standards and workflows. It champions interoperability among different software tools in the Building Information Modeling (BIM) ecosystem, enabling stakeholders across disciplines to effectively share and manage building data throughout the building’s lifecycle. Central to OpenBIM is the use of International Foundation Classes (IFC) and BuildingSMART standards, which ensure that information exchanges can occur in a vendor-neutral environment. This approach enhances transparency, fosters innovation, and improves efficiency, reducing costs and errors while promoting sustainable and inclusive practices in the building industry.