Kisters自动化服务器(KAS)

自动化批处理工具,无需用户交互

对于 3DViewStation 产品系列中的所有产品而言,只要涉及到重复程序的自动化,那么 Kisters 自动化服务器 KAS 绝对是理想的补充方案。在大多数情况下,KAS 用于将原生 3D CAD 数据转换为轻量级 3DVS 数据格式。例如,一个在原生加载模式下需要 5 分钟加载时间的 5 GB Catia 组件,在转换成 3DVS 格式后,仅需 1 秒即可完成加载。期间可保留所有信息,也可以根据具体设置相应减少。同时,可以整体或以“完全粉碎”的方式进行转换,也就是每个几何文件转换为一个 3DVS 文件。这样一来,便可大大减少修改一个可能需安装多次的零件之后的转换工作量。KAS 还用于自动为 PLM 系统生成预览图,或以 3D 或 2D 格式导出为组件创建的所有视图,或以默认 3D 格式导出整个组件。

 

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以下是我们KAS Batch-Tool客户的项目案例。

一家直升机制造商在可视化之前将其所有原生 CAD 数据转换为 3DVS 格式。这极大地加快了已配置直升机的可视化速度。作为整体,2-3 百万个零件的加载时间现在不到 10 秒。在以前,CAD 系统甚至无法加载整个直升机。


一家卡车制造商将 KAS 用于将其原生 CAD 数据批量转换为轻量级 3DVS 格式。某些文件是通过元数据控制的,此外也可以在 BREP 中进行陌生化。完成卡车配置之后,将根据具体客户需求通过 KAS 将其转换为部分陌生化的 STEP 数据,部分则将自动生成 2D 图纸。


某工厂工程公司使用KAS生产其约5TB(!)的产品。将CAD数据转换为3DVS格式。因此,该企业能够利用 3DViewStation WebViewer 加载一台有大约 2 亿个部件的设备。


一家造船厂将 KAS 用于将整艘船转换为 3DVS 格式。如果是 VR 版,那么大约一千万个组件的后续加载时间约为 15 秒,使用桌面版和 WebViewer 版也是如此。


我们的合作解决方案。我们的协作解决方案 VisShare 在后台使用 KAS,以便将原生数据转换为 3DVS 格式,并生成预览图。

支持3D数据格式

迁出:
3D导入原生和中性CAD数据,如:
Catia, NX, Creo, Solidworks, SolidEdge, Inventor, SAT, Parasolid, JT, STEP, 3D PDF, Revit, GLTF, 3DXML, VRML...

3D 导出:
STEP, JT, 3D PDF, 3MF, Parasolid, VRML...

支持二维数据格式

迁出:
2D 导入——图纸、办公室、图片:
Catia CatDrawing, NX 2D, Creo DRW, Solidworks slddrw, DWG, DXF, HPGL, 2D PDF, TIFF, JPEG...

2D 导出:
DXF, PDF, CGM, PNG, SVG, BMP...

The interacive Kisters 3DViewStation and also batchtool KAS are no classic CAD converters, but can help translating 3D file formats into others and also allow to derive high quality 2D vector or raster drawing and images from the 3D-models.

Translating into a light weight representation like the Kisters 3DVS file format opens new options for 3D-based technical documentation, 3D technical illustrations, 3D assembly instructions, manufacturing, design review, collaboration and more. By staying in the 3D world, processes will become streamlined, the quality of the assets will be increased and  a lot of interaction time will be saved.

With thousands of companies using of software we learned, that in many cases like collaboration a translation into a neutral file format could be avoided, if a Web based visualization solution like our 3DViewStation WebViewer version was used.

catia viewer pmi MBD MBE product manufacturing information fertigungsinformationen

What do I need to know when translating a 3D-CAD model into another neutral 3D file format?

We think, that there are several important considerations to keep in mind, like file format selection, model structure, views, annotations, metadata and more:

So first of all, we need to choose an appropriate neutral 3D file format for the translation. The most important neutral BREP file format for sure is STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Data). Here  typically AP 214 and AP 242 are used. In the automotive industry JT has become an important standard. Less important, but still used is IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification). Finally there are several rather simple tessellation based file formats like STL (Standard Tessellation Language), VRML (Virtual Reality Modelling Language) and OBJ, see also our complete file format list, section export 3D. The specific format you choose will depend on the requirements of the receiving software or system. BREP based file formats are intended to exchange between CAD systems, while tessellation based file formats are good for many visualization needs.

In most cases we need to take into account the structure and hierarchy of the original CAD model and how it will be translated into the neutral file format. CAD models often have an organized structure with components, assemblies, and sub-assemblies. Ensure that the translation process maintains this structure for better organization and future editing or manipulation. Be aware, that some file formats do not support the structure and hierarchy.

Many 3D-CAD systems support so called captures or PMI views, which are all called views in the 3DViewStation world. As not all file formats support such views, you we might have to select the right one, if we need to retain them.

If your enterprise follows the MBD concept (Model Based Definition, also called 3D Master), then you replaced 2D drawings by 3D annotated models. Translating such files requires a target file format, which will support PMIs (Product Manufacturing information). STEP AP 242 and JT are such file formats. When using Kisters 3DViewStation or KAS in order to translate these files, you need to ensure, that the correct import and export settings have been set.

Today it is very important to preserve metadata, attributes, and properties associated with the CAD model, such as material information, part numbers, or custom properties during the translation process. Be careful: Some formats may support metadata transfer, while others may require additional steps or custom scripting, some file formats might not even support any.

We, the visualization experts, are aware of how visual properties, such as colors, textures, or surface finishes, will be handled in the translation process. Some neutral file formats may support these visual attributes, while others may require additional steps or settings to preserve or recreate the desired appearance in the target application.

We also need to understand the level of geometry accuracy and detail required for the translation. Different file formats may handle geometry representations differently, such as using NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines) or polygonal mesh representations. Consider the level of precision and detail needed for your intended application and ensure the chosen file format supports it.

We need to confirm that the units and scale of the original CAD model are correctly preserved during the translation. This is crucial to ensure dimensional accuracy and proper scaling in the resulting neutral file format. Verify that the translated model aligns with the intended unit system and scale in the target application.

In case we know the target system we do have a chance to understand the compatibility and limitations of the target software or system with the chosen neutral file format. Different software packages or systems may have varying support or interpretation of specific file formats. Ensure that the target application can correctly read and interpret the translated file for optimal compatibility and usability. We can help selecting the most promising file format depending on the target system.

While  KAS allows to translate file in batch mode, you can use 3DViewStation Desktop or WebViewer version to do these translations manually. But they are also good to review the translated model to confirm its accuracy and integrity. Check for any errors, missing geometry, or unexpected changes that may have occurred during the translation process. There are also quality checkers available on the market, which might be used before forwarding the file or before importing them into the target system.

When talking about 2D exports, first of all we should mention, that it is no trivial task to derive a full scale, high quality, still small 2D vector representation for a 3D CAD model. At the same time generating an image, like a thumbnail preview of even a high resolution image is rather easy.

Why does someone want to export a 3D-CAD model to a 2D vector drawing?

There are several reasons why someone may want to export a 3D CAD model to a 2D vector drawing:

Many manufacturing processes still rely on 2D representations, especially for certain types of fabrication, such as laser cutting, CNC machining, or sheet metal bending. Exporting a 3D CAD model to a 2D vector drawing allows manufacturers to generate the necessary cutting or machining paths, specify part dimensions, and determine material requirements.

In some industries, older software or equipment may only support 2D vector formats. Exporting a 3D CAD model to a 2D vector drawing allows compatibility with such systems, enabling data exchange or integration with existing workflows without the need for complex conversions or software upgrades.

In certain contexts 2D vector drawings can be useful for visualizing a design. For example, in architectural or interior design, 2D floor plans or elevations provide a comprehensive view of the space, including the layout, dimensions, and other architectural details. These drawings are often easier to understand and work with for certain design-related tasks.

2D vector drawings are commonly used for documentation purposes. They provide a clear and detailed representation of the design, including dimensions, annotations, and other important information. These drawings can be shared with stakeholders, such as manufacturers, contractors, or clients, for better understanding and communication.

Today 2D vector drawings are often used for 2D technical illustrations, 2D assembly instructions, or 2D user manuals, mostly provided as 2D PDF file or printed documents. By exporting a simplified 2D representation of a 3D CAD model, complex designs can be visually broken down into clear, step-by-step instructions, aiding in the assembly, maintenance, or operation of a product or system.

In some cases, a 2D vector drawing may be preferred for design review or collaboration purposes. By simplifying the representation to 2D, it becomes easier to focus on specific aspects of the design, such as individual components, dimensions, or structural details, without the complexity of the 3D environment. This can facilitate discussions, feedback, and design iteration.

By exporting a 3D CAD model to a 2D vector drawing, individuals can leverage the benefits of both formats, combining the rich detail and accuracy of the 3D model with the clarity, simplicity, and compatibility of the 2D vector representation for various applications.

What do I need to know when exporting from a 3D-CAD model to a 2D vector file?

Determining the appropriate file format for the vector file is key. In the manufacturing industry common file formats used for 2D drawings include 2D DXF (Drawing Exchange Format), 2D PDF (Portable Document Format) and SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). Sometimes the file format required depends on the target application and system, where it will be used.

Organize your CAD model into appropriate layers and/or blocks before exporting. This allows for better control over different components, annotations, or visual elements in the vector file. 3DViewStation APIs and our batch tool KAS allow to automatically build layers and blocks, based on the product structure of the 3D-CAD model.

Familiarize yourself with the export settings and APIs provided by 3DViewStation and KAS. These settings may include options for curve smoothing, resolution, and compatibility with different software or devices. Decide whether you want to include hidden lines in the exported vector file or show only visible lines. Depending on the purpose of the 2D representation, you may need to enable or disable hidden line removal to accurately represent the design.

3DViewStation and KAS can help you simplifying or optimizing the geometry of your 3D CAD model before exporting to a 2D vector file. They allow to remove unnecessary details, such as internal components or hidden features, to keep the resulting vector file clean and lightweight. This can help improve performance and reduce file size.

Consider the desired level of quality and precision in the exported vector file. This relates to the smoothness of curves, accuracy of angles, and overall detail. Higher quality settings may result in larger file sizes, so balance your requirements with file size considerations. Very often it is crucial to keep file size as small as possible, which requires intelligent vectorization and compression algorithms, like 3DViewStatoin and KAS provide. 

We need to ensure that the dimensions of your 3D model are accurately translated to the 2D vector file. Check the scaling and units of measurement to avoid any discrepancies. File formats like PDF know their paper size, which might make it easier to retain the intended scale during the conversion.

Leveraging 3DViewStation Desktop or WebViewer version  you can verify that the exported vector file represents the desired geometry and level of detail. Pay attention to curves, arcs, and splines, as they may require higher resolution or special settings to maintain smoothness.

Some file formats do support line thickness and styles. As 3D CAD model do not have any settings like that, we’ll need to specify them in such a case. Different software may handle linework differently, so be prepared to adjust these settings during the export process.

3DViewStation and KAS will care for colors and fills automatically, depending on black & white or color setting: You can assign specific colors to different layers or components, interactively or via API or opt for a monochromatic representation during export.

Finally, if your 3D CAD model includes 3D annotations, labels, dimensions, balloons, tables or text blocks, verify that they are appropriately exported and legible in the 2D vector file. These annotations are essential for conveying important information about the design and can aid in manufacturing or construction processes.