Viewing Technologies for CAD Models

Published

August 1, 2003

Author(s)

Michelle P. Steves, Simon P. Frechette

Abstract

This report describes Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model-viewing technologies1 used to support CAD-model review and analysis. CAD model viewers are tools that allow engineers and other users to view CAD models from distributed locations, often using lightweight viewing applications, often supporting multiple CAD formats. These tools are typically less expensive, faster, and simpler to use than native CAD systems for model review. These features are especially important for small and medium-sized enterprises that can not typically support multiple native CAD systems. Additionally, considerations when choosing a viewing technology are described, as well as, popular CAD-model file formats that viewing technologies can import.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 6966

Report Number

6966

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.6966

Local Download

Keywords

CAD, CAD-model, Computer-Aided Design, lightweight viewing applications, manufacturing, technology

Citation

Steves, M. and Frechette, S. (2003), Viewing Technologies for CAD Models, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.6966, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=822064 (Accessed October 7, 2025)