

This enables automation, data insights, and connectivity from design to manufacturing from a single source of truth that is both human and machine readable. MBD CAD files include both the geometry and product manufacturing & quality requirements, which are normally done on 2D drawings.īy combining 2D drawing information into the 3D CAD model, it becomes the authoritative source for a product's lifecycle. that ensure quality and consistency) and that are model-based definition (MBD) ready. Today we look at the best 8 neutral CAD file formats, especially pertaining to mechanical CAD conversion.Ĭapvidia is a firm believer in CAD formats that are standards (e.g. N eutral CAD file formats, however, are interoperable between different CAD software. Native CAD file formats from PTC Creo, Siemens NX, CATIA, SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, and others are proprietary and need to be translated & validated for downstream processing. However, think of the various stakeholders that eventually handle the file:Īll use different CAD software, making interchange difficult for all– especially when geometric information and 3D annotations such as PMI (product manufacturing information) must maintain integrity.

CAD (computer-aided design) files are digital files that house 3D & 2D designs as well as information regarding materials, processes, tolerances, and other data.įrom design to production, everything begins with the CAD file.
