OnShape is a cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) software that provides a complete 3D modeling experience to design, develop and manufacture products. It was created by the same team that founded SolidWorks and is known for its ease of use, collaboration features, and accessibility from any device with an internet connection.
OnShape uses a proprietary file format called Document OnShape, which is saved in the cloud and can be viewed from any device with an internet connection. This file format contains all information about the 3D model, including its geometry, material properties, and design history.
One of OnShape's most important features is its CAD interoperability capability. It can import and export files in various file formats including popular CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor and CATIA. Additionally, it can read and write standard file formats such as STEP and IGES, enabling seamless collaboration with teams using different CAD software.
OnShape's import and export formats are:
Formats | Import | Export |
Parasolid (.x_t or .x_b) | ✓ | ✓ |
ACIS (.sat) | ✓ | ✓ |
STEP (.stp or .step) AP203, AP214, AP242 (geometry and face color only) | ✓ | ✓ |
IGES (.igs or .iges) | ✓ | ✓ |
CATIA v4 | ✓ | |
CATIA v5 | ✓ | |
CATIA v6 | ✓ | |
SOLIDWORKS (.sldprt) | ✓ | ✓ |
Inventor | ✓ | |
Pro/ENGINEER, Creo | ✓ | |
JT (.jt) | ✓ | ✓ |
Rhino (.3dm) | ✓ | ✓ |
STL (.stl) | ✓ | ✓ |
OBJ (.obj) | ✓ | ✓ |
NX | ✓ | |
Solid Edge (.par and .psm) | ✓ | |
glTF (.gltf) | ✓ | ✓ |
3MF | ✓ | ✓ |
PVZ (.pvz) | ✓ | |
Collada (.dae) | ✓ |
OnShape's CAD interoperability capabilities allow designers and engineers to collaborate with different teams while using their preferred software. This feature reduces the time and resources required to convert files between different software, reducing errors and improving the design process as a whole.
CAD Interop distributes several software programs for viewing and converting OnShape files. Below is a list of our solutions compatible with OnShape: