Definition from IAI: Generalization of all components that make
up an AEC product. Those elements can be logically contained by a spatial
structure element that constitutes a certain level within a project structure
hierarchy (e.g., site, building, storey or space). This is done by using the
IfcRelContainedInSpatialStructure relationship.
Elements are physically existent objects, although they might be void
elements, such as holes. Elements either remain permanently in the AEC product,
or only temporarily, as formwork does. Elements can be either assembled on site
or pre-manufactured and built in on site.
EXAMPLEs of elements in a building
construction context are walls, floors, windows and recesses.
An element can have material and quantity information assigned through
the IfcRelAssociatesMaterial and IfcRelDefinesByProperties
relationship.
In addition an element can be declared to be a specific occurrence of an
element type (and thereby be defined by the element type properties) using the
IfcRelDefinesByType relationship.
An element can also be defined as an element assembly that is a group of
semantically and topologically related elements that form a higher level part
of the AEC product. Those element assemblies are defined by virtue of the
IfcRelAggregates relationship.
EXAMPLEs for element assembly are complete
Roof Structures, made by several Roof Areas, or a Stair, composed by Flights
and Landings.
Elements that performs the same function may be grouped by an "Element
Group By Function". It is realized by an instance of IfcGroup with the
GroupPurpose = 'ElementGroupByFunction".
HISTORY New entity in IFC Release 1.0
ISSUE See issue log for changes made in IFC Release 1.5. and IFC Release
1.5.1.
