3D Interop Alternatives

CrossManager is an all-in-one solution that helps you in the conversion of files from almost all CAD formats. It is straightforward, and all that you are required to do is choose one or multiple CAD files and then convert them to the desired format automatically. It supports a lot of formats for input and output, namely 3DXML, OBJ, 3MF, VRML, PDF 2D, CADDS, EMF, VRML, COLLADA, Robcad, gITF, CATIA V4 3D, and many more. The software also works with many interfaces and versions such as CADDS, Revit, PDF 2D, SOLIDWORKS 2D, SOLIDWORKS 3D, ACIS, VRML, Revit, FBX, IFC, Open CASCADE, Creo View, and more.

HOOPS Exchange is one of the leading and precise CAD DATA Translation Toolkit available in the market. It provides access to more than 30 CAD file formats via a single UI. You can access a wide range of information like visualization, boundary representation, persistent IDs, construction geometry, product manufacturing information, and more without relying on the CAD system. It delivers all the integration controls needed by any development team to make powerful CAD data translation into any application in no time at all.

The solution supports multiple CAD formats, namely Solid Edge, CATIA, NX, SolidWorks, Solid Edge, and more, giving you a lot of options. The creators of the toolkit checked the competition and developed an improved and faster SDK for CAD data reuse. Those who use Parasolid should rejoice because the toolkit is the number one CAD translator solution for them. Tech Soft 3D joined hands with Siemens to improve the integration of Parasolid and HOOPS Exchange to allow for CAD data exchange.

The SDK benefits include Ensuring the application is up to date with modern format versions for CAD data exchange, Concentrating resources of essential application keypoints and utilizing HOOPS Exchange for CAD translation, and full support of a highly experienced team of CAD translation expects.

SpinFire is the Ultimate, popular, and most accurate viewing tool that is good enough to fulfill your basic and complex CAD interrogation needs. It provides a Smart Dimensioning feature that can recognize a part characteristic or surface to show available dimension options, decreasing time and clicks. You also have the option to display a broad range of other distances and lengths, including Linear, Radial, and Tube, which consist of edge length, the surface to surface, thickness, arc diameter, circle by three points, export to CSV, and length with centerline length.

The solution offers faster and precise weight, the center of mass, volume, and branding box. It ensures seamless model analysis by enabling you to Highlight by color the differences between two models that are the same, draft projected areas and angles, or create a new analysis tool with custom rules.

Teams will be happy to know that the solution supports Collaboration and let them inspect and convey design additions and modification requests with user views that save partial transformation/orientation with notes, annotations, and mark-ups. Communicate feedback and models with every team by leveraging the SpinFire.ACT3D neutral compressed format for this purpose.

CADmeister is the ideal companion for artists and other individuals and helps them cross limitations and common sense. It’s a hybrid modeler that can easily operate solid models, wireframe models, surface models and executes multiple operations of mixed data of solid and surface models, allowing modeling environments unshackled from the limitations because of the differences in data model types.

The solution comes with many modules, namely STL-EDIT, Data Exchange, Press, CAE-Press, DL, Press-Form-EX, CAM3D, FM-CAM2, Cam-Structure, and Press-Motion. The data exchange component is great for performing efficient data exchange of data with several types of CAD systems. The FM-CAM2 module, on the other hand, serves as a support tool for loading full-mold models via accurate 3D solid models usage.

CrossCad/Plg is a prominent solution developed by Datakit to provide integrated plug-ins for CAD software and has the ability to import/export various formats in the desired software. The supported Import and Export formats include ACIS, CGR, Creo View, Revit, Rhino, STEP, IFC, UG NX 3D, Solid Edge 3D, CATIA V4 2D, Inventor, PLMXML, IGES, UG NX 3D, FBX, and PDF 3D. Beyond these, the solution also works with different Rhino plug-ins, SOLIDWORKS plug-ins, Open CASCADE, and 3ds Max plugins. Among the mentioned plug-ins, SolidWorks and Rhino plug-ins are preferred more than others by the users.

AutoCAD MEP software is a BIM software that is specialized in building system designs and is used by mechanical, electrical, and plumbing professionals. The software is built on the familiar AutoCAD platform and has been enhanced with a dedicated suite of tools to improve building system design productivity, improve system design accuracy, and provide spot check for mismatches, avoiding costly on-site rework or redesigns.

The rich set of its tools include industry-specific workspaces and schematic tool palettes including piping and HVAC system design to improve workflow and improve detailing productivity. Smart annotation functionality further increases drawing productivity by automating scaled annotative text, and engineering display themes that allow you to quickly reference critical data such as friction loss and pipe pressure classes. The salient features of AutoCAD MEP include Full BIM Software Solution, Integration, Extended Functions, Completely Professional, Programmability, Top-Notch Support, Minimal Learning Curve, and Platform Agnostic.

DataCAD is a professional-grade CADD program for the design, presentation, and documentation. It is one of the few software applications designed specifically for architects and the only CADD software ever approved by the American Institute of Architects. It is a computer-aided drafting and designing tool that assists engineers, architects, and construction professionals in building information modeling. Architects use this platform for production drawing via associative dimensioning and photorealistic rendering.

It helps contractors to visualize window and door insertion on construction sites. The three-dimensional model of the software can be used to generate plans and alter the elevations. Further, it assists with specialized building practices like pre-manufactured homes and log construction. The salient features of DataCAD include Visualizing, Rendering, Drawing, Editing, Dynamic Updating, Collaboration, Multi-User, File Import/Export, Annotating, Construction, Fabrication, Grading, and Earthwork.

iConstruct is a building information modeling (BIM) software for Autodesk Navisworks, that is suitable for a large range of industries globally. It uses advanced features to enhance project performance, and drive efficiency and collaboration across the project lifecycle by ensuring a high-quality conditioned model. The platform’s advanced and powerful BIM technology is constantly evolving to deliver benefits related to safety, cost, environment, and scheduling. Utilizing the review and collaboration technology of Autodesk Navisworks, its interoperability enables users to manage and configure a wide range of information from different design models into manageable and multi-user formats.

The salient features of iConstruct include Clash Management, Advanced Work Packaging, Task Automation, Data Management, Advanced Exporting, Append Data, Audit, BIMflow, BIM 360 Docs Search, Center of Gravity, Clash Manager, Clash Reports, Color Code, Create QA View, Data Links, Dimension Tool, Dynamic Labeler, Explode Tool, Export Data, Find & Replace, InfoBin, Integrator, iView Exporter, Laser Point Creator, Macro Configuration, Math Calculations, Model Compare, Model Compiler, Open File, PhotoBin, QR Code Reader, Quick Viewpoint, and much more.

Cadmatic 3D Plant Design is an intelligent and specification driven software that is dedicated to planting layout, piping design, HVAC design, design review, and related tasks like the creation of P&IDs (piping and instrumentation diagrams), 3D modeling of complete industrial projects, and the generation of isometric drawings along with data sharing in different formats.

The platform empowers you to enhance business efficiency and increase quality. It shortens the times of the project lead, reduces engineering errors, increases information accessibility, and improves the efficiency of change management, regardless of how big are the 3D models and where the design teams are located. The key specialties of Cadmatic include Easy create and modify constructions in 3D model, Fully integrated with piping and other disciplines, Specification-driven beam tools, Templates for most-used structural units, Customizable foundations, Complete data for the construction phase, and much more.

BEXEL Manager is a building design and building information modeling or BIM software that is based on advanced technologies, intended to fast and smooth completion of your projects. The platform has attained excellence in BIM software for more than a decade through continuous research and exploration of BIM principles and practices. The program is useful for construction companies, investors, engineers, architects, students, interior & exterior designers, and technical consultants.

The salient features of BEXEL Manager include Automated Data Management, Advanced Clash Detection, Smart 5D Cost Management, Intelligent Scheduling, Integrated 4D/5D BIM, Change Management, Conflict Tracking, For Facility Management, Collaboration Tools, and Document Management.

CAD Schroer is an MNC-based software development organization and supplier of engineering solutions. It enables you to boost your productivity with its powerful CAD, PLM, and PDM software packages for mechanical engineering, plant design, and plant layout. Impress your customers with its immersive AR and VR apps, or use its IoT solutions to digitize your manufacturing processes. As your global partner, its services will help you to achieve your objectives.

The consultants of the platform can also assist you with the configuration, implementation, and automation of individual solutions. Based on your demands the trainers of the platform put together training workshops that are tailored according to your specific needs. To keep your company up to date with the latest developments, it also offers maintenance services that include all software updates as well as expert technical support.

Autodesk Civil 3D is a civil engineering design software that supports Building Information Modeling or BIM with built-in features to enhance drafting, design, and construction documentation. It is a design and documentation solution for civil engineers that help to improve project performance, maintain consistent data and processes, and respond faster to change. It is a sort of civil infrastructure design and documentation software that automates time-consuming grading tasks. The way you navigate, visualize and interact with design models of the platform is altered through the project explorer feature of the platform that simplifies the design review and modification, efficiently validates the design objectives, automates table generation and custom reports.

The salient features of Autodesk Civil 3D include Free Product Trials, 3D CAD Software, 3D Modeling, 3D Animation, Civil Engineering, Drafting, Manufacturing, Product Design, Find by Industry, and Industry Collecting, Collaboration for Civil 3D, Connectors for ArcGIS, Dynamo for Civil 3D, Bridge Design, Pressure Network, New Transit & Rain Design Features, Surface Modeling, Surface Creation from Cloud Data, Design Surface Creation, Parcel Design, Grading, Relative Elevation Feature Line, Corridor Modeling, Storm and Sanitary, Plan Production & Documentation, Interoperability, Corridor Data Shortcut, 3ds Max Interoperability, and IFC Import & Export.

ArCADiasoft is a BIM software that enables users to create a complete architectural and constructional model of a building along with internal and external installations as well as terrain modeling. You can merge the installation design models with the building model from an architectural design to create one complete model of the building project. You can import RVT and IFC underlays and by using smart tracking functions insert elements like a wall, pipe, etc.

The emergence of this BIM system is a logical consequence of the platform’s philosophy that is meeting the needs of designers at all stages of project development. The system intelligently supports and coordinates all stakeholders throughout the design process in accordance with BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology to create a comprehensive database of building information. It provides complete control and security at all stages of the design, optimizing and accelerating implementation. The salient features of ArCADiasoft include 2D Drawing, 3D Imaging, Civil, Collaboration Tools, Data Import/Export, Design Analysis, Electrical, and Presentation Tools.

Ashampoo 3D CAD Professional 8 is a complete CAD solution for the designers and decorator that are looking for the centralized way to get done with their interior designer. This top-notch professional CAD software is the way to go option for you that brings the better ways for you in delivering the right planning, visualization, and collaboration to communicate your ideas.

The software comes with all the technical features that allow you to bring all ideas on the same page, and you have extensive modeling capabilities that aid in designing your own construction elements or sculptures and get the artistic look to your creations. There are multiple features for you that include hundreds of 3D shutters, advanced measuring methods, precise analysis, and exterior and interior design elements, enhance alignments for 3D views, wizard support for the complex operation, beneficial input, and more to add.

Form-Z is a 3D computer-aided design tool that allows you to design all kinds of 3D spaces, environments, 3D modeling, animation, and rendering. This is an all-in-one tool that you can use as a solid and surface modeler with a wide range of 2D and d3D manipulation and sculpting tools. The software is made for architects, designers, engineers, illustrators, animators, and even movie makers can sue.

Some highlighting features of modeling include the ability to create curved surfaces from a variety of splines, Boolean solids to generate complex composite objects, mechanical and organic forms using the previous as well as metaforms, patches, subdivisions, displacements, or skinning, plus specialty tools such as Terrain models, Platonic solids, geodesic spheres, double line objects, staircases, helixes, screws, and bolts.

Additionally, Form-Z supports transforming and morphing 3D shapes and their animated capture in that. Form-Z includes an extensive library of materials that are ready to use. The Materials editor allows you to create your own materials and materials groups.

CAD Exchanger is a software company providing separate solutions for end-users and developers to help them view, browse and convert 3D CAD data on mobile, desktop, and web. You can Import and export 3D files in STL, Solidworks, STEP, JT, and more than 30 other formats. Browse the assemblies and parts, accurate polygonal and B-Reps meshes, PMI, and meta-data. Visualize by utilizing sectioning, exploding multiple display modes and views.

The platform is the go-to source of many industry leaders like Tesla, AIRBUS, Siemens, Apple, and NASA. The products available for end-users include CAD Exchanger GUI and CAD Exchanger Cloud whereas software developers can take advantage of the CAD Exchanger Cloud API, CAD Exchanger SDK, CAD Exchanger Web Toolkit, and CAD Exchanger CLI.

With the CAD Exchanger GUI, the customer can view, analyze, and convert 3D files without issues. Its key features include View PMI, Create meshes, View and Convert, Explode assemblies, Measure objects, and Build sectioning views. It ensures maximum collaboration by offering support for multiple formats like U3D, DXF, JT, X3D, FBX, PLY, Rhino, DWG, Solidworks, VRML, STEP, Parasolid, and more.

Delcam Data Exchange is a handy utility for the transfer of data between different CAD formats. You can deal with multiple CAD projects and perform data exchange by creating a connection that converts the content from one format to another in no time at all. What it does is open the files, view them, and select the complete or specific parts for translation.

It is a robust standalone CAD translator package that can easily translate from major CAD input formats to different output formats. The best feature is that it charges are no fees for opening and viewing all compatible systems. It also won’t record data, so you don’t have to worry about information being shared with others. The payment is only applicable when the individual wants to save the translated files on a pay-per-translation basis by credit card.

The primary features include the translations are performed by your system, which means zero occurrences of file transfers and the ability to open and view CAD files from compatible input format for free, after which the payment is required for translation. Also, payment is only necessary if you choose to save the file in a specific format.