Promoting Freedom for Creative Architecture
CNC machining utilizes various file formats that are tailored specifically for it, organized according to their intended use and compatibility with different manufacturing processes.
Scan2CAD makes the task of transforming raster images to CNC vector format much simpler by employing intelligent vectorization algorithms to trace over each picture and converts it to G-code, which CNC machines will follow when cutting.
STEP is a 3D modeling file format compatible with most CAD programs, making sharing designs with others simpler and printing models less time consuming. Common uses for STEP models include architecture, mechanical engineering and manufacturing industries.
STEP files store the complete body of a 3D model, providing cross-platform compatibility and improved accuracy for architects and engineers. Their ease of viewing in various CAD software makes them popular choices that help promote collaboration and workflows.
This file format relies on mathematical representation of curves called NURBS to store its data accurately, which gives it an edge over other formats like FBX and USDZ that store geometric data only. NURBS data storage greatly improves precision and consistency when designing engineering models; furthermore, its extensible nature means new technologies can be implemented without disrupting older data sets.
IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) is an industry-standard file format for exchanging 2D or 3D design data between computer-aided design (CAD) programs. These files may include circuit diagrams, wireframes and freeform surfaces or solid modeling representations - making IGES an indispensable tool to engineers and designers who utilize it across different software systems to streamline design processes and increase productivity.
IGES can also be an ideal format for communicating surface geometry between non-CAD users. Its neutral ASCII text format preserves both appearance and functionality of entities - something which becomes especially handy when dealing with complex models.
SolidWorks makes it easy to access IGES files. Simply navigate from the File menu bar, to "Open," then IGES option in Open dialog box, select desired location of file and click Open button. Specify unit settings corresponding with an existing template or original IGES file by changing their properties as appropriate.
DXF stands for Design eXchange Format and is one of the most widely-used and flexible CAD file formats. While DWG files are proprietary to AutoCAD, DXF files are open source and compatible with various graphic design programs and CAD software packages.
DXF files contain various kinds of information, from 2D vector images and 3D models to G-code which is then used to control CNC machines.
Though DXF files are widely supported, there are some drawbacks that should be considered when dealing with them. For example, certain CNC and CAD programs do not support line widths which results in inaccurate cut paths and distortion. There are ways around this problem; one being DXF recovery programs which can recover deleted data from DXF files while another involves exporting them as STL files for 3D printing; however this method will not preserve geometry of models as accurately.
STL is the industry standard for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing, offering easy manipulation thanks to its straightforward structure. Furthermore, its efficient execution time reduces execution times and boosts performance compared to custom code solutions.
The triangle-based.stl file format approximates CAD models' surface geometry to ensure high-quality prints. Furthermore, following the vertex rule - whereby each triangle must share two vertices with another triangle - is key in producing excellent prints.
OBJ is second in popularity only to STL and stores geometry as an MTL file, along with color information. It provides processing tools such as mesh analysis, surface reconstruction, remeshing and automatic smoothing; also support for various tessellation methods including hexahedra, tetrahedra hexapods and octapods; it is suitable for indoor GPS-challenged environments; also resistant against spoofing and jamming attempts.
