ECAD/MCAD Collaboration Implementor Forum

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ECAD/MCAD Collaboration Implementor Forum (ECAD/MCAD IF)

Duration

since 2010

Mission

The exchange of data between the ECAD and MCAD domains using the established data formats IDR and DXF does not offer any option for incremental changes or identifying changes made during the product development process. IDX, the data format that the project group developed within the framework of Recommendation PSI 5 "ECAD/MCAD Collaboration", remedies these weaknesses. The data schema is enjoying ever-broader acceptance by vendors. This increases the number of options available to users when it comes to efficient solutions for collaborative product development within the ECAD and MCAD domains. It also makes it easier to select a suitable solution.

For more information on the standard IDX and the project group please visit our website ecad-mcad.org

Milestones 2019

The main task planned for 2019 was to work intensively on IDXv4.0. This work was successfully completed and an update of the recommendation with focus on the implementation guidelines and the actual schema was published. Another objective was to step up public relations work to speed up dissemination of the standard. This included the creation of an attractive new flyer, which is to be displayed at trade fairs and other events by the participants. In 2019, the prostep ivip Association and the participants in the project group received a large number of queries about implementing the standard. These queries provide proof of interest in and the need for the exchange format IDX.

Outlook 2020

Once the group has drawn up a release plan for the period up to and including 2022 with the individual extensions, these extensions will be implemented within the framework of a minor release, IDXv4.5. In addition to the further development of IDX, focus will be placed on dissemination of the standard. An increasing number of users are recognizing the advantage of IDX and participation in the project group is intended to provide them with the support they need.