since 2010

The JT Implementor Forum is a joint project organized by the prostep ivip Association and the VDA. It is overseen by the JT Workflow Forum. The aim of the project is to support and accelerate the development of CAx interfaces based on JT (ISO 14306 / DIN SPEC 91383) and STEP AP242 XML.

The tasks involved include implementing new functionality based on user requirements, coming to an agreement on common approaches to implementation, and increasing users' confidence in JT by providing interoperable software. The JT IF is a neutral forum for software vendors where they can test the applications that they are developing in an atmosphere of mutual trust and exchange information on experience already gained.

The testing performed in 2019 focused on the DIN SPEC 91383 (JT v10.0 + AP242 XML) and the further successful exchange of kinematic models. Tests relating to interoperability between PDM and CAD systems when exchanging assemblies were also conducted. Additional testing involving semantic PMIs, moniker IDs and validation properties was also performed.

The transfer of attributes for use as product manufacturing information (PMI) was analyzed with the aim of defining common implementation guidelines and improving the usability of PMI data in JT and downstream processes. The findings thus incorporated into the JT file specification represent a significant improvement in documentation.

The JT Workflow Forum is giving semantic PMI a high priority and will therefore continue to pursue it aggressively in 2020 with a variety of different activities, such as working together with the JT Open community and downstream vendors for example. When it comes to kinematics, the JT IF will collaborate with the CAx IF group on the exchange of models that include mechanism and motion functionality.

The definition and use of validation properties in JT will be subject to continued development in 2020 and will be coordinated with the JT WF. Validation properties enable easy verification of completeness and quality when importing the JT data. Another activity will involve reviewing the results of content harmonization with the aim of identifying topics relevant to the JT IF.