Data Translation

CAD data can survive many changes and iterations and still retain its integrity only if the chain of data remains unbroken and all departments have access to it in appropriate forms. Miss this point and you open the door to the probability of lost time and resources. Companies have to find reliable distribution and translation methods to reduce loss of data quality.
Before exploring the various distribution methods, companies have to determine exactly who needs design data in various departments. The answer may be obvious but careful examination might bring some surprises. The purchasing department may send out hard copy drawings for quotes or even for tooling. If so, the data will most likely be redrawn or recreated on a CNC machine somewhere with all the possiblities for simple human error. The sales department may be sending drawings to customers - make sure they are sending the correct versions and are tracking what they send. The minute a CAD model leaves drafting it may no longer agree with the design data so there is some definite potential for noncompliance with the released design unless they are properly controlled.
IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Standard) is a graphics file format for 3-dimensional models. IGES files contain surfaces, so they are a natural choice for distributing the CAD data to anyone who does machining. However, IGES translations can be difficult and frustrating due to a variety of differences in the CAD products and the vagueness of definitions of the file format. Properly done, though, IGES translations do contain accurate model data and are compatible with most machining packages. Newer CMM and other digital inspection hardware are able to compare model data with acquired data points to generate reports and 3D color plots that visually display feature compliance.
STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Model Data) files, which contain non-parametric solid model data are smaller than IGES files and are usually easier to translate. Companies doing original designs for their customers can transmit design data back and forth in STEP format while retaining the engineering properties of the objects.
STL (Stereolithography) format is commonly used in rapid prototyping business.