IGES to 3DM - Efficient and Reliable IGES Conversion

Convert IGES to 3DM

IGES to 3DM Conversion

Our step-by-step tutorial makes converting IGES to 3DM quick and effortless:

  1. Download & Install:

    Convert your IGES files to 3DM format seamlessly using Autoconverter or Autoshaper - simply install and launch the software on your system.

  2. Import IGES File:

    Either click Open... to browse for your .iges file, or drag and drop it anywhere in the application window.

  3. Export to 3DM Format:

    Use Save As... to specify both location and filename (with .3dm extension) for your exported file.

Struggling to convert IGES to 3DM? Our reliable guides help you handle IGES files with ease:

IGS Initial Graphics Exchange File

A file format widely used in the fields of CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), as it enables to transfer of 3D models and designs across different platforms and applications. Developed in the 1980s and standardized by ANSI and ISO, IGES remains a foundational yet legacy-neutral format for 3D data exchange.

Key Features of IGES/IGS

  • Text-Based Geometry Storage:

    The IGES format stores all geometric data in human-readable text, enabling easy editing but potentially creating large files when exporting complex models with dense meshes.

  • Color Representation:

    IGES maintains color information at the assembly level, preserving visual clarity in multi-component designs.

  • Transparency Limitations:

    Unlike modern formats, IGES lacks alpha channel support, meaning transparency settings from original 3D designs won't carry through in exported files.

IGES/IGS File Conversion

Autoconverter provides full read/write capabilities for IGES files through the Open Cascade framework, ensuring compatibility with the latest specifications. The application works exclusively with triangulated mesh geometry when processing IGES files. For projects requiring native NURBS surface preservation, we recommend using Autoshaper, which maintains the original smooth surface definitions throughout conversion.

3DM Rhinoceros 3D File

The native file format for Rhinoceros 3D (Rhino), a powerful and versatile NURBS-based 3D modeling software. As Rhino’s default format, 3DM is designed to store precise mathematical representations of curves, surfaces, and solids, making it ideal for high-accuracy modeling across industries.

Supported Geometry Types

Known for its precision and versatility, the 3DM format supports a comprehensive range of geometric data types, making it ideal for both organic freeform modeling and technical CAD applications, including:

  • NURBS Surfaces:

    Enables mathematically precise, smooth, and editable surfaces essential for high-end industrial and automotive design.

  • Polygonal Meshes:

    Stores tessellated geometry for 3D printing, rendering, and simulation.

  • SubD (Subdivision Surfaces):

    Allows for flexible, organic modeling with editable subdivision geometry.

  • Instance References:

    Lightweight object copies (not duplicates) that reference a single source, saving memory and ensuring synchronized updates.

3DM File Conversion

Our software solutions enable seamless conversion between 3DM and other major CAD formats (e.g., STEP, IGES, OBJ, DWG, STL). Autoconverter exports only polygonal meshes (STL, OBJ, etc.), suitable for 3D printing and real-time rendering, while Autoshaper preserves NURBS geometry, ensuring superior accuracy for CAD, CAM, and engineering workflows. Both converters can save 3DM files in legacy formats (Rhino 2.X - 7.X) or the latest Rhino 8.X version, ensuring smooth collaboration across different software environments.

IGES vs. 3DM Comparison

Property IGES 3DM
Extensions .igs, .iges .3dm
Name Initial Graphics Exchange Specification Rhinoceros 3D Model
Versions
  • Min: Rhino 2.x
  • Max: Rhino 8.x
Textures
Colors
Geometry components
Readers
Writers