1. It is important to consider the native application the files originate from and the application you are translating to. Your translation will produce a cleaner translation if we have the native files. But, if your native software is parasolid based, please send a Parasolid (*.x_t) file. If your native software is an ACIS based, please send an ACIS (*.sat) file.

  2. Use STEP and IGES files as last resorts if no other data is available and of these two STEP is preferred. If you must use an IGES file, please see if it is possible to export out an MSBO (Manifold Solid Boundary Object). An MSBO provides a solid IGES instead of the typical IGES wireframes. This option may not be available to all end users.

  3. What are the differences between Native CAD files and Neutral CAD files? Neutral CAD files (IGES, STEP) are exported files from the native software that are then imported into another CAD system. A Neutral CAD file will not have any editable features but is merely a "dumb" solid. Native CAD files, on the other hand, are feature based CAD files which contain various features including extrudes, cuts, and holes.

  4. An STL is made up of many triangular facets of the outside surface of your product. Due to how the native software exports out an STL, the STL file results are unpredictable and may contain gaps between the surfaces. STL's are primarily used in CAM and Rapid Prototyping situations.

  5. It is important to keep in mind, when translating files, that each CAD system has its own way of describing data and loss of data is possible during translation.

  6. To determine your file's native software, open your file using a text editor and view the header information of that file. This will tell you which software your file was created in.

  7. For further information on the various CAD formats, please visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CAD_file_formats.
Translation Tips