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Glossary: CAD Formats & 3D Visualization
The key terms around CAD files and the photorealistic 3D visualization of technical products - explained briefly and clearly.
CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) refers to the computer-assisted design of parts and products. CAD software produces the technical 3D data that serves as the basis for a photorealistic visualization.
CAD file
A CAD file contains the three-dimensional design of a product with exact dimensions and geometry. CAD23D uses this file as a template and turns it into a photorealistic 3D visualization.
Technical drawing
A technical drawing represents a part to scale and according to standards. From such technical CAD data, CAD23D creates clear, sales-oriented product images.
STEP file (.step / .stp)
STEP is the most widely used neutral exchange format for 3D CAD data (ISO 10303) and transfers the exact geometry independently of the manufacturer. CAD23D processes STEP files (.step, .stp) directly.
OBJ file (.obj)
The OBJ format stores 3D geometry together with surface information and is read by almost every 3D software. CAD23D accepts OBJ files as a template for visualization.
IGES file (.igs / .iges)
IGES is a widely used neutral CAD exchange format. It is also suitable for handing over 3D design data for a visualization.
STL file (.stl)
The STL format describes the surface of a 3D model using triangles and is known from 3D printing. It can also serve as a data basis for a visualization.
Native CAD formats
Native formats from programs such as SolidWorks, CATIA, Autodesk Inventor or PTC Creo contain the original model. For visualization they are usually exported to a neutral exchange format such as STEP.
3D model
A 3D model is the digital, three-dimensional representation of an object. It forms the geometric basis that becomes a photorealistic image during visualization, with materials, light and environment.
Assembly & single part
A single part is one component; an assembly combines several parts into a product. CAD23D visualizes both individual parts and complete assemblies.
3D visualization
A 3D visualization is a computer-generated image that realistically depicts a product based on its 3D data. It makes technical designs vivid for marketing, sales and presentation.
3D product visualization
3D product visualization shows a specific product photorealistically, often before a physical prototype exists. It is used for advertising in web, print and trade fair construction.
Rendering
Rendering is the computational process in which a finished image is calculated from a 3D model - including light, shadows, materials and perspective.
Photorealistic rendering
In photorealistic rendering, a 3D model is calculated so that the result is barely distinguishable from a real photograph. This is exactly the result CAD23D delivers from your CAD data.
Product rendering
A product rendering is the rendered, photorealistic depiction of a single product, as used for catalogues, online shops and advertising.
Material & texture
Materials and textures determine how a surface appears in the rendered image - for example metal, plastic, glass or aluminium. CAD23D reproduces the desired materials true to life.
3D visualization without a CAD file
If no CAD file is available, CAD23D creates the 3D visualization freehand based on photos, sketches or dimensions.
Industrial visualization
Industrial visualization is the photorealistic 3D depiction of technical and industrial products such as machines, components or plants. CAD23D creates industrial visualizations from CAD data for mechanical engineering, metalworking and industry.
Render CAD photorealistically (CAD to photo)
Rendering CAD photorealistically - also searched as CAD to photo or render CAD - means turning a CAD design into a photorealistic image. CAD23D renders your CAD file so the result looks like professional product photography: with realistic materials, light and shadow.
CAD to 3D
CAD to 3D describes the step from the technical CAD file to a spatial 3D representation. CAD23D prepares your CAD data three-dimensionally and generates photorealistic images from it for web, print and trade fairs.
STP to JPG: converting a STEP file into an image
To convert an STP or STEP file into a JPG, the 3D geometry is rendered and output as an image (JPG, PNG or TIFF). CAD23D creates high-resolution, photorealistic product images from your STP file.
OBJ to JPG: rendering an .obj file photorealistically
Converting an .obj file into a JPG means rendering the 3D model photorealistically and outputting it as an image. CAD23D visualizes OBJ files photorealistically and delivers the result in high resolution.