usBIM.viewer+: Free 3D BIM Model Viewer for IFC and BIMcollab

Quick Guide — How to Use usBIM.viewer+ to Inspect IFC Files Quickly

1. Install or open

• Desktop: download and install usBIM.viewer+ from the usBIM/ACCA website.
• Browser: sign in to the usBIM platform and open the online viewer.

2. Open your IFC file

• Drag-and-drop the .ifc file into the viewer or use File → Open.
• For multiple models, load them into the same scene or create a federated view.

3. Navigation fundamentals

• Orbit / Rotate: left-click + drag (or equivalent touch gestures).
• Pan: middle-click or Shift + left-click drag.
• Zoom: mouse wheel or pinch.
• Home / Fit to view: use the Fit/Zoom to extents button to center the model.

4. Use the model tree and filters

• Expand the model tree (IfcProject → IfcBuilding → IfcStorey → elements) to select specific objects.
• Apply filters by type (walls/doors/columns), by property, or by classification to isolate elements quickly.

5. Sectioning and clipping

• Activate clipping planes or section box to cut the model and inspect interiors.
• Move/rotate clipping planes interactively to reveal layers and connections.

6. Measurement and inspection tools

• Use measure tools for distances, areas and coordinates.
• Check element properties: select an object to view type, GUID, material, dimensions and custom IFC properties in the properties panel.

7. Visibility and appearance

• Toggle element visibility, hide/unhide selections, and use color overrides or transparency to highlight elements.
• Switch rendering modes (wireframe, shaded) for performance or clarity.

8. Search and query

• Use search to find objects by name, GUID, or property values.
• Create queries or saved filters for repeated inspections.

9. Clash detection & BCF issues (if available)

• Run quick clash checks between selected element sets (if the feature/package supports it).
• Export or create BCF issues directly from selected clashes or observations to coordinate with the team.

10. Export, snapshot and report

• Export views, screenshots, and section drawings for documentation.
• Export modified IFC or save a federated model; generate property reports or CSV exports of element lists and measurements.

Tips for speed

• Use Fit-to-view and model tree selection to jump to elements quickly.
• Turn off layers or large categories (furniture, MEP) while navigating.
• Use saved views and filters for recurring inspection tasks.

If you want, I can produce a one-page checklist or keyboard/mouse shortcut list tailored to Windows or macOS.