IGES
IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) is a neutral file format used for exchanging 2D and 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data between different software systems. It was developed in the late 1970s to enable interoperability among CAD tools, allowing engineers and designers to share geometric models without proprietary restrictions. The format supports various entities like points, curves, surfaces, and annotations, making it a foundational standard in manufacturing and engineering workflows.
Developers should learn IGES when working in CAD/CAM/CAE software development, data exchange pipelines, or legacy system integrations, as it ensures compatibility with older systems and industry standards. It is particularly useful in automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors where cross-platform model sharing is critical, though it has largely been superseded by newer formats like STEP for more complex data.