
3DM to IGES Conversion
With our tools, changing 3DM to IGES is a breeze - follow these simple 3 steps:
Install Autoconverter
Download and install Autoconverter or Autoshaper on your system. Launch the software to convert 3DM files to IGES format.
Import 3DM File
Click Open... to load your 3DM (.3dm) file, or drag and drop it into the application window.
Export to IGES Format
Use Save As... to export your file to the IGES file format (.igs, .iges).
Still frustrated with 3DM to IGES conversion? These step-by-step guides simplify 3DM files conversion:
- Batch Convert 3D Mesh Files with Autoconverter (STEP, STL, OBJ & More)
- SKP to IGES: Export IGS from SketchUp (.skp) File
- Automesher Desktop Application for Windows to Convert 3D File Formats
- How to Change Units in STEP & IGES Files - Convert 3D Model Units
Rhinoceros 3D (3DM) File Format
The 3DM file format is the native format for Rhinoceros 3D (Rhino), a leading NURBS-based 3D modeling software used across industries like architecture, engineering, and industrial design. 3DM files accurately store mathematical representations of curves, surfaces, solids, and meshes, making them essential for precision 3D modeling and CAD workflows.
Key Features of 3DM Files
- NURBS Geometry: Supports precise, smooth surfaces critical for advanced design and engineering projects.
- Polygonal Meshes: Stores tessellated 3D models ideal for rendering, simulation, and 3D printing workflows.
- SubD Surfaces: Allows flexible, editable subdivision modeling for organic shapes and complex surfaces.
- Instance References: Saves memory by creating linked object instances, optimizing large and detailed models.
Convert 3DM Files Seamlessly
Autoconverter and Autoshaper simplify 3DM file conversion to popular formats like STEP, IGES, OBJ, STL, and DWG. Automate the export of 3DM polygon meshes for 3D printing, or preserve NURBS data for engineering-grade CAD models. Save files in legacy (Rhino 2.X - 7.X) or latest Rhino 8.X formats to ensure compatibility across all project environments.
IGES File Format - Initial Graphics Exchange Explained
The IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) file format is widely used across CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) industries for transferring 3D models and complex designs between different software platforms. Developed in the 1980s and standardized by ANSI and ISO, IGES remains a crucial, legacy-neutral format for 3D data exchange, ensuring long-term interoperability.
What is an IGES (.IGS) File?
IGES files store detailed 3D CAD data using a text-based format that can represent wireframes, surfaces, and solid models. It enables seamless sharing of geometric information without dependency on proprietary software, making it ideal for collaborative projects across engineering, manufacturing, and design fields.
Key Features of the IGES/IGS Format
- Text-Based Geometry Storage: All geometric and structural data is saved in human-readable ASCII text, allowing easy manual editing but often resulting in larger file sizes for complex designs.
- Color Information: IGES supports color at the assembly level, preserving important visual distinctions between different components and parts in a model.
- Transparency Limitations: Unlike newer 3D file formats, IGES does not support transparency (alpha channels), meaning that opacity settings in original designs are not retained after export.
IGES/IGS File Conversion and Processing
Autoconverter offers complete read and write support for IGES files using the Open Cascade technology stack, ensuring full compatibility with the latest IGES specifications. It processes IGES data as triangulated mesh geometry for maximum compatibility. For workflows requiring preservation of native NURBS surfaces and smooth 3D definitions, we recommend using Autoshaper, which maintains original surface accuracy throughout the conversion process.
3DM vs IGES Comparison
Property | 3DM | IGES |
---|---|---|
Extensions | .3dm | .igs, .iges |
Name | Rhinoceros 3D Model | Initial Graphics Exchange Specification |
Versions |
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Textures | ||
Colors | ||
Geometry components | ||
Readers | ||
Writers |