Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is often used to create digital models and designs that serve as input for various types of software and processes. Examples include Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, and 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing software.

Importing CAD structures into GeoDict is always desirable to simulate on such structures as a complete filter or other macroscopic models. See the ImportGeo-CAD User Guide for more details about how to import CAD structures into GeoDict. At the same time, interoperability with other software systems often requires exporting or sharing structure models generated with GeoDict in various standardized formats.

The MeshGeo / ExportGeo-CAD User Guide explains that GeoDict can natively export the Stereolithography (*.stl), VRML (*.wrl), and Wavefront OBJ (*.obj) formats. However, Parasolid (*.x_t), Iges (*.igs), Step (*.stp), and Acis (*.sat) formats additionally require the purchase and installation of the CADlook software.

This tutorial deals with how to install and use CADLook and how a structure is exported from GeoDict to the *.x_t, *.igs, *.stp, and *.sat formats with the help of CADlook. A case study is also provided to show how to import and mesh in Ansys a GeoDict structure exported with the help of CADlook.