Formats
What are the recommended formats for exchanges between CAD software and 3D software
Computer-aided design (CAD) is an indispensable technology for engineers and designers to create 3D models for a variety of projects. However, there are plenty of proprietary 3D software out there, each with their own file format. This can pose a major challenge for interoperability between different software and can lead to compatibility issues between different file formats in the most common scenarios:
- Conversion or migration between native CAD formats
- Conversion or archiving with neutral formats
- Conversion to mesh formats for visualization or simulation
- Point cloud exploitation resulting from digitization (scan)
A bit of definition: What is a data format
In computing, data format refers to the way data is organized and represented in an information carrier, using a standardized convention to encode data types as a sequence of bits. This data format allows data to be placed in specific locations in a template so that IT tools can find it easily. Data formats can include information representing text, pages, images, sounds, executable files, etc., and they allow the exchange of data between various computer programs and software. When this data is stored in a file, it is called a file format. This possibility of exchanging data between different software is called interoperability.
The data format facilitates interoperability between different software and allows users to share data without encountering compatibility issues.
Proprietary formats used for CAD
There are many proprietary formats for CAD, but some of the most common are:
- CATIA: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Dassault Systèmes and used in the aerospace, automotive and other industries for the design of complex products.
- Creo: formerly known as Pro/ENGINEER, is another proprietary CAD software developed by PTC and used in various industries for product design.
- NX: is proprietary CAD software developed by Siemens and used in the aerospace, automotive and other industries for the design of complex products.
- SolidWorks: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Dassault Systèmes and used in various industries for product design.
AutoCAD: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Autodesk and used in architecture, construction and engineering.
Neutral formats used for CAD interoperability
To address interoperability issues, neutral file formats have been developed to allow different CAD software to communicate with each other. The most common neutral file formats are:
- STEP: is a standard file format for exchanging data between different CAD software. It supports geometry, topology, and material property information.
- IGES: is a neutral file format that supports the exchange of data between different CAD software, including geometry, topology and material property information.
- JT: is a neutral file format developed by Siemens PLM Software for viewing and exchanging 3D product data.
Mesh formats used for CAD-to-simulation or visualization interoperability
Mesh formats are used to store 3D models as a grid of points, which are connected together to form a surface. The most common mesh formats are:
- FBX: is a mesh file format developed by Autodesk for 3D models, animation, and textures.
- GlTF: is a mesh file format for 3D models used primarily for virtual and augmented reality applications.
- OBJ: is a standard mesh file format used to store 3D models, including geometry, texture, and color information.
Point cloud formats used for viewing and digitizing
Point cloud formats are used to store sets of three-dimensional points, which can be used to represent physical objects. The most common point cloud formats are:
- E57: is a point cloud file format developed to store 3D scan data from different types of laser scanners.
- LAS: is a point cloud file format developed to store 3D scan data from airborne laser scanners.
- PCD: is a point cloud file format developed
3D modeling is a complex and ever-evolving field, and with hundreds of available file formats, it can be challenging to manage interoperability between different software systems. Point cloud data is a critical component of 3D modeling, and it's essential to ensure that the data is stored in a format that can be easily processed and used by a wide range of software systems. In this article, we will discuss the common 3D point cloud file formats, their key differences, and how to solve interoperability issues.
Point cloud data is collected using laser scans and other surveying techniques, and the resulting raw data can be stored in different file formats. Some of the most significant players in the industry, such as Faro, Leica, and Trimble, produce both hardware and software for point cloud data processing. Autodesk, on the other hand, is a significant software developer but does not produce hardware. This heterogeneity of hardware and software in the market makes it challenging to ensure that data from one system can be easily used by another.
The main difference between point cloud file formats is the use of ASCII and binary. ASCII uses text to convey information and is considered a universal format that can be easily opened in text editors. Some of the most common ASCII file formats for point cloud data include XYZ, OBJ, PTX (Leica), and ASC. Binary systems, on the other hand, store data directly in binary code, making the files more compact and faster to process. Some of the most common binary file formats include FLS (Faro), PCD (Point Cloud Library), and LAS.
Another key difference between point cloud file formats is the amount of information they can store. ASCII files, while accessible, are larger in size and contain less metadata compared to binary files. Binary files can store more information, including file signatures, software information, and metadata, making them a better choice for day-to-day use. Binary files can also be spatially indexed, which allows them to be read in parts, making them faster to process and visualize.
In order to overcome the interoperability issues that arise from the wide range of file formats available, it's essential to use common file formats that have wide interoperable utility. This will ensure that point cloud data can be processed using a wide range of software systems without having to resort to third-party file converters. Some of the most common file formats that have wide interoperable utility include PLY, FBX, and E57. These formats store data in both ASCII and binary, offering the benefits of both formats in a single file type.
In conclusion, the plethora of point cloud file formats available in the market makes it challenging to ensure that data collected from one system can be easily used by another. By using common file formats that have wide interoperable utility, such as PLY, FBX, and E57, users can overcome these interoperability issues and ensure that their point cloud data can be processed and used by a wide range of software systems. With a little bit of planning, these issues can be overcome, and users can ensure that their point cloud data is stored in a format that is easily accessible and usable for their needs.
Computer-aided design (CAD) is an essential technology for engineers and designers to create 3D models for a variety of projects. However, there are many proprietary 3D software programs, each with their own file format. This can pose a major challenge for interoperability between different software and can lead to compatibility issues between different file formats in the most common scenarios, including:
- Conversion or migration between native CAD formats
- Conversion or archiving with neutral formats
- Conversion to mesh formats for visualization or simulation
- Utilization of point clouds resulting from scanning
A little bit of definition: What is a data format?
In computer science, the data format refers to how data is organized and represented in an information carrier, using a standardized convention to encode data types as a sequence of bits. This data format allows data to be placed in specific locations in a template so that computer tools can easily find it. Data formats can include information representing text, pages, images, sounds, executable files, etc., and they enable data exchange between various computer programs and software. When this data is stored in a file, it is referred to as a file format. The ability to exchange data between different software programs is known as interoperability.
Data format facilitates interoperability between different software programs and allows users to share data without encountering compatibility issues.
Proprietary formats used for CAD
There are many proprietary formats for CAD, but some of the most common ones are:
- CATIA: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Dassault Systèmes and used in the aerospace, automotive, and other industries for the design of complex products.
- Creo: formerly known as Pro/ENGINEER, is another proprietary CAD software developed by PTC and used in various industries for product design.
- NX: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Siemens and used in the aerospace, automotive, and other industries for the design of complex products.
- SolidWorks: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Dassault Systèmes and used in various industries for product design.
- AutoCAD: is a proprietary CAD software developed by Autodesk and used in architecture, construction, and engineering.
Neutral formats used for CAD interoperability
To solve interoperability problems, neutral file formats have been developed to allow different CAD software to communicate with each other. The most common neutral file formats are:
- STEP: is a standard file format for exchanging data between different CAD software. It supports geometry, topology, and material property information.
- IGES: is a neutral file format that supports exchanging data between different CAD software, including geometry, topology, and material property information.
- JT: is a neutral file format developed by Siemens PLM Software for the visualization and exchange of 3D product data.
Mesh formats used for CAD interoperability to simulation or visualization
Mesh formats are used to store 3D models as a grid of points that are connected to form a surface. The most common mesh formats are:
- FBX: is a mesh file format developed by Autodesk for 3D models, animation, and textures.
- GlTF: is a mesh file format for 3D models primarily used for virtual and augmented reality applications.
- OBJ: is a standard mesh file format used to store 3D models, including geometry, texture, and color information.
Point cloud formats used for visualization and scanning
Point cloud formats are used to store sets of three-dimensional points, which can be used to represent physical objects. The most common point cloud formats are:
- E57: is a point cloud file format developed to store 3D scanning data from various types of laser scanners.
- LAS: is a point cloud file format developed to store 3D scanning data from airborne laser scanners.
- PCD: is a point cloud file format developed to store point cloud data from 3D scanners, 3D cameras, and CAD software.
- PLY: is a point cloud file format developed to store 3D scanning data and meshes.
In conclusion, interoperability between different 3D software is essential to allow designers and engineers to work with 3D models from different sources. Neutral file formats, conversion software or interfaces, file conversion plugins, and interoperability tools are all means to achieve interoperability between 3D software.
Based on our over 25 years experience, CAD Interop recommends below the most relevant CAD formats to convert your data between major CAD systems. To date, the most common exchange format is the STEP format, the most complete and available for the majority of CAD software. But, when possible, it is preferable to use the geometry kernel of the software (such as Parasolid for NX, SolidWorks or Solid Edge) which will allow to read the geometry without translation. If you want to provide read-only access to your CAD data for users who do not have a viewer or other CAD software, we recommend using the 3D PDF format in its faceted (lighter) version.
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(*) recommended neutral file format for 3D geometry interoperability
(1) Only major neutral file formats are listed. Some CAD systems may have some limitations with specific format.
CAD Interop distributes several solutions to view, translate or validate CAD files. Find below the list of our products compatible with major CAD formats.
Computer-Aided Design, or CAD, has transformed the world of design. It enables the rapid definition of 3D models, easy updating, and transmission to applications such as simulation or manufacturing. A "good" CAD model includes not only the geometry of the building, machine, or product, but also key information such as materials, annotations, etc.
Despite all these advantages, file formats can pose problems, as each CAD software has its own native file format. Catia, NX, Creo, SolidWorks, Autodesk, and others all generate proprietary files that are only readable and usable by their own software. This means that if a client sends you a Catia file, you are unlikely to be able to use it in SolidWorks.
This limitation slows down design processes, to the point where the industry has created so-called "neutral" file formats. These CAD file formats allow interoperability between multiple software programs. They break down barriers and allow for a greater degree of collaboration. STEP, IGES, PDF 3D, JT, STL, ACIS, PARASOLID, and QIF are among the main neutral CAD formats in the world of computer-aided design.
Although these neutral file formats effectively meet the need for 3D data exchange, they are not all equal. Each has unique characteristics and capabilities that you need to know when deciding to use these file formats. The two most universal and standardized formats are STEP and IGES.
Evolution of Neutral CAD File Formats
First, a little history. Although it seems like an inherently modern technology, problems with competing and incompatible CAD file formats have existed for decades. This was especially true at the beginning of CAD, when it was not easy to update software, download a new program, or ask your client, supplier, or partner to use a different program from their own.
The IGES format (for Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) was the very first neutral format created by the US Air Force in the early 1980s. The Air Force had a great motivation in terms of time and expenses to make the CAD process more useful in designing their equipment, and the IGES format was therefore developed in-house.
In 1980, the US National Bureau of Standards officially approved IGES as a neutral CAD file format for representing circuits, wireframes, free-form surfaces, and solid models. The IGES format quickly became successful for its ability to neutrally translate and represent 2D and 3D CAD models. However, the less commonly used 3D solid entities were not truly optimized.
This gap partly led to the creation in 1984 of the most widely used neutral format in the CAD world, STEP (or The Standard for the Exchange of Product model data). Recognizing the limitations of IGES 3D solid models, STEP leaders pushed for this new file format to be optimized for geometric shapes and topologies, associated features, and even higher-level information and data such as materials, manufacturing processes, metadata, and assembly structures.
Due to these numerous advantages, the STEP format became the standard for representing 3D solid models and for designs that required the inclusion of both geometric and non-geometric data, and even became an ISO standard. It was notably chosen as the Long-Term Archiving format for aerospace (LOTAR).
Since the 1980s, other neutral formats have been created, as alternatives to the STEP format (3D PDF, JT, etc.), or as geometric engines in CAD software (ACIS or Parasolid). But the STEP format remains the most versatile and universal neutral format among these formats, as it is supported by a large majority of software and is the most comprehensive in terms of definition across all industries.
Meshes in 3D modeling are three-dimensional models composed of points, lines, and faces that allow for the creation of 3D objects and environments. 3D mesh files are used in many applications, including video games, animation, architecture, and product design. However, there are many different 3D mesh file formats, which can create interoperability problems between different software.
3DS Max
The native file format for 3DS Max is .max. While it is specific to 3DS Max, it is widely used in the 3D industry. It can store models, textures, lighting, animations, and special effects. However, the .max format is proprietary and cannot be opened by other 3D software. To share files with other professionals, it is recommended to export to a compatible format.
Collada
Collada (.dae) is an open and free 3D mesh file format that is supported by many 3D software applications, including 3DS Max, Blender, Maya, and Unity. It is used to store geometries, textures, animations, and special effects. Collada is considered a preferred 3D mesh file format for interoperability between different applications.
FBX
FBX (.fbx) is a proprietary 3D mesh file format developed by Autodesk. It is compatible with many 3D software applications, including 3DS Max, Maya, Blender, Unity, and Unreal Engine. FBX can store models, textures, lighting, animations, and special effects. It is often used in the video game industry for character assets and environments.
GlTF
GlTF (.gltf) is a free and open 3D mesh file format developed by Khronos Group. It is designed to be used on the web and supports real-time broadcasting, virtual reality, and augmented reality. GlTF can store geometries, textures, animations, and special effects. It is supported by many 3D software applications, including Blender, 3DS Max, Maya, Unity, and Unreal Engine.
LightWave
The native file format for LightWave is .lwo. It is used to store models, textures, lighting, animations, and special effects. Although this format is not as widely used as other 3D mesh file formats, it is supported by some 3D software, including 3DS Max.
OBJ
OBJ (.obj) is an open and widely used 3D mesh file format for sharing 3D models. It can store geometries, textures, and materials. OBJ is supported by many 3D software applications.
OpenCTM
OpenCTM (.ctm) is a free and open 3D mesh file format that is used to compress mesh data. It is designed to reduce the size of mesh files without losing visual quality. OpenCTM can store geometries, textures, and materials. It is supported by some 3D software, including Blender and OpenSceneGraph.
OpenSceneGraph
OpenSceneGraph (.osgt, .osgb) is a free and open 3D mesh file format that is used to create 3D visualization applications. It is used to store models, textures, lighting, and special effects. OpenSceneGraph is often used for simulation applications, architectural visualizations, and video games.
STL
STL (.stl) is an open 3D mesh file format that is used for additive manufacturing, such as 3D printing. It stores geometries as a triangulated mesh. STL is supported by many 3D software applications, including 3DS Max and Blender.
USD
USD (Universal Scene Description) is a free and open 3D mesh file format developed by Pixar. It is used to store complex 3D scenes including models, textures, lighting, animations and special effects. USD is designed to improve collaboration between artists, developers, and engineers in digital content production pipelines. It is supported by many 3D software including Maya, Houdini and Unreal Engine.
VRML
VRML (.wrl) is an open 3D mesh file format used to create virtual environments. It can store geometries, textures, lighting, animations, and special effects. VRML is often used for virtual reality applications and scientific visualization.
XGL
XGL (.xgl) is a proprietary 3D mesh file format developed by Softimage. It is used to store models, textures, lighting, animations, and special effects. Although not as widely used as other 3D mesh file formats, it is compatible with 3DS Max.
Interoperability of Unreal and Unity
Virtual Reality Software Unreal Engine and Unity are two of the leading video game and virtual reality creation software available in the market today. Although both offer similar features, they each have their own advantages and disadvantages depending on the user's needs.
Unreal Engine is a game engine developed by Epic Games. It is known for its graphical power, ability to handle complex open worlds, and integration with cutting-edge technologies such as motion capture. Unreal Engine is also known for its use in AAA games and high-end virtual reality projects. However, its learning curve can be steep for beginners and it may require higher system resources.
On the other hand, Unity is a game engine that is also popular in the game and virtual reality development community. It is known for its ease of use, great flexibility, and extensive resource library, including tutorials and pre-made assets. Unity is often used for mobile games and medium-sized virtual reality projects. However, it is often criticized for its limitations in terms of graphics and performance.
In terms of interoperability for virtual reality, both software offer similar features for VR content creation. However, Unreal Engine is often preferred for high-end VR projects due to its graphical power and compatibility with third-party development tools. Unity, on the other hand, is often used for smaller VR projects and mobile virtual reality applications.
