The Convergence of Digital Universes: Opportunities and Challenges of USD and IFC Integration for the AECO Industry

Abstract

The Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operation (AECO) industry is at a turning point, driven by the collision of two powerful standards: Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), which establishes the semantic backbone for built environment data, and Universal Scene Description (USD), which introduces revolutionary capabilities for composing and managing complex 3D scenes. This paper critically analyses the opportunities and challenges inherent to this convergence. Using a qualitative methodology based on document analysis and a case study, it argues that the IFC-USD synergy is fundamental for realizing high-fidelity Digital Twins, accelerating collaborative workflows, and visualizing large-scale projects. However, achieving this potential is constrained by profound technical challenges, such as the harmonization of data paradigms (semantics vs. geometry), scalability, and the immaturity of the tool ecosystem. The conclusion is that the IFC-USD bridge represents the foundation for the next generation of AECO interoperability, requiring sector-wide collaboration, standards development, and the evolution of professional skills.