Overview
The Open CASCADE DXF Import-Export SDK enables seamless reading and writing of DXF files for applications built with Open CASCADE Technology. This powerful component provides the perfect solution for CAD software that needs to interoperate with AutoCAD, MegaCAD, Microstation, and other DXF-compatible systems.
Our comprehensive solution offers two levels of data conversion:
- BRep data conversion – Complete geometrical and topological data translation
- Attribute handling – Precise transfer of colors, names and assembly structures
The SDK supports reading DXF files of all versions (R10 through 2013) and writing to versions R10 through 2010, providing maximum compatibility with your target systems. Users can transfer BRep data independently or together with associated attributes for complete model fidelity.
Advanced Features
Comprehensive Geometrical and Topological Data Handling
Our robust translation engine transforms DXF entities into precise Open CASCADE Technology shapes:
- Translates DXF groups and assemblies to OCCT compound shapes
- Reads DXF entities with embedded ACIS bodies (BODY, 3DSOLID, REGION)
- Supports writing OCCT shapes as either polyface meshes or ACIS bodies
- Utilizes Shape Healing to ensure geometric and topological integrity
- Offers customizable healing operations through resource files
- Adapts output to match target application requirements
Complete Attribute Management with XDE
Leveraging the power of XDE (eXtended Data Exchange), our SDK offers superior attribute handling:
- Extracts colors, names, and assembly structures from DXF files into XDE data structures
- Preserves complete attribute relationships during import/export
- Provides straightforward access through the intuitive XDE API
- Translates attributes attached to OCCT shapes back to their DXF equivalents
- Ensures compatibility with attributes from other data formats (IGES, STEP)
Business Benefits
The DXF Import-Export SDK delivers significant advantages for engineering software development:
- Enhanced Interoperability – Direct data exchange with major CAD systems like AutoCAD, MegaCAD, and Microstation
- Superior Translation Quality – Advanced Shape Healing technology ensures model integrity
- Customization Potential – Create specialized modules extending standard CAD products
- Cost-Effective Solution – No third-party licenses required
- Flexible Deployment – Source code licensing available for customization
- Complementary Integration – Works alongside other OPEN CASCADE interfaces for multi-format support
See how this component was successfully implemented in MarCAD (by Mahr Multisensor) and woodWOP (by HOMAG) to enhance their CAD capabilities.
Technical Configuration
The DXF Import-Export SDK is built on the latest version of Open CASCADE Technology and functions as a standalone module requiring no additional external software. It’s available across all platforms supported by the corresponding OCCT version.
The module is packaged in two complementary parts:
- BRep conversion – Can be used independently for geometry translation
- XDE component – Builds on BRep conversion to provide full attribute support
