Working with design files: Best practices for CAD drafters and design file editors

Power Hour is an exclusive event for Propeller customers where we tackle technical challenges, share best practices, and explore ways to get more out of the platform. Each session focuses on a key topic, offering practical advice and insights from experts and real-world examples.

In the most recent Power Hour, we discussed how to optimize and prepare design files for better platform performance. From structuring files to ensuring they’re streamlined for analysis, we shared valuable tips to help customers maximize their results.

Here’s a recap of what we covered.

Linework: Simplification and optimization

Detailed linework can be powerful, but too much complexity gets counterproductive, especially when working with design files. Here’s how to streamline:

• Reduce vertex counts: Avoid overloading your designs with unnecessary vertices. Simplify curves and arcs, and clean up straight lines where possible
• Manage labels: Extra labels can cause unexpected performance hits. Keep them in separate layers and remove anything nonessential
• Elevations: Non-elevation critical linework can be clamped to the model surface in Propeller

IFCs: Not just design file types

IFCs (Industry Foundation Classes) are a key part of your workflow. To maximize their potential, keep these tips in mind:

• Schema matters: Use the latest schemas (e.g. IFC 4 ADD2 TC1) for improved functionality and flexibility
• Color and textures: Simplify colors and avoid texture-heavy exports that are often program-specific and do not display correctly outside that program. Color-coding classes (e.g. yellow for manholes, green for storm sewers) can improve clarity