Data exchange standards for computer–aided engineering and manufacturing

In this paper, we describe the data exchange standards used to transfer between CAD/CAM and finite element systems. The standards currently in most common use are: Initial Graphic Exchange Standard (IGES), and Autodesk Inc.'s DXF format. Two new standards, Product Definition Exchange Standards (PDES) and Standard for Exchange of Product Model Data (STEP) will be available soon. These two standards, which are intended to be functionally identical, will also be discussed. Several examples are given to show the translations from one CAD/CAM system to another. Several pitfalls and difficulties are illustrated in using these standards.