At frontline.io, we support a variety of 3D CAD file formats to ensure seamless integration and usability for your digital twin models. Here is an overview of the supported 3D CAD formats and their origins:

3D CAD File Formats and Their Origins

• STEP (STandard for the Exchange of Product model data):
  

  • Origin: Developed by ISO (International Organization for Standardization) as ISO 10303.
    
  • Purpose: A neutral and widely accepted format for exchanging 3D data between different CAD systems, ensuring high interoperability.
    

• OBJ
  

  • Origin: Created by Wavefront Technologies.
    
  • Purpose: A geometry definition file format commonly used in 3D graphics software, often includes texture mapping.
    

• STL (Stereolithography)

  • Origin: Developed by 3D Systems.
    

  • Purpose: Widely used in 3D printing, it represents the surface geometry of a 3D object without any color or texture information.
    

• FBX (Filmbox)

  • Origin: Initially developed by Kaydara and later acquired by Autodesk.
    

  • Purpose: Popular in animation and gaming industries, it supports complex data like rigging and animations.
    

• GLTF/GLB (GL Transmission Format)
  

  • Origin: Created by the Khronos Group.

  • Purpose: Optimized for web-based 3D visualization, it’s lightweight and supports PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials.
    

• 3DXML
  

  • Origin: Developed by Dassault Systèmes for use with CATIA V5 and V6.

  • Purpose: A lightweight 3D format for sharing and visualizing 3D models, compatible with CATIA products.
    

• PXZ
  

  • Origin: Created by PiXYZ Software.

  • Purpose: Designed for optimizing and preparing CAD models for real-time visualization and VR/AR applications.
    

• JT
  

  • Origin: Developed by Siemens PLM Software.

  • Purpose: A compact format for 3D visualization, often used in product lifecycle management (PLM).
    

• PRT (NX-Unigraphics)
  

  • Origin: Developed by Siemens for NX (formerly Unigraphics) CAD software.

  • Purpose: A proprietary format for detailed design and engineering data.
    

• Parasolid
  

  • Origin: Developed by Siemens PLM Software.

  • Purpose: A geometric modeling kernel widely used in CAD applications for high-precision modeling.
    

• Rhino3D (3DM)
  

  • Origin: Developed by Robert McNeel & Associates for Rhino 3D modeling software.

  • Purpose: A versatile format for complex freeform modeling.
    

Why File Format Compatibility Matters

Choosing the right file format ensures compatibility and seamless interaction with our tools. Each format has its strengths, tailored to specific use cases, from 3D printing to animation and web visualization.