Computer-Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application V6 (CatiaV6)¶
CatiaV6 is built on Dassault Systèmes 3DEXPERIENCE platform and maintains a CGM-based geometry kernel, similar to CatiaV5. Its primary distinction lies in deeper PLM integration, including Enovia-based data management and collaborative workflows. Files are often stored and managed within a server-based environment rather than standalone documents, enabling more centralized control of design data.
🔍 See 3D Data Concepts for details and definitions.
Extensions¶
3DXML: XML-based format for 3D models, assemblies, and metadata.
Structure¶
Structure in CatiaV6 is preserved in instant3Dhub, enabling navigation, transformation, and selective display of assemblies and parts. CatiaV6 manages structure through a centralized PLM system:
Assemblies: Defined as product structures in the database, referencing parts and sub-assemblies with stored transformations and constraints
Parts: Reusable and version-controlled components, linked by reference—not by file
Bodies: Exist within parts and contain the geometric definition
Hierarchy: The full product structure (assembly, part & body) is managed relationally, enabling consistent reuse, navigation, and collaboration
Geometry¶
CatiaV6 uses the CGM (Convergence Geometric Modeler) kernel, continuing the approach used in CatiaV5. It supports both exact and approximated geometry representations.
Tesselation¶
Mesh geometry is generated for fast visualization and lightweight exchange and is supported by instant3Dhub.
B-Rep¶
Surfaces, solids, wireframe, and topological relationships are concepts in CatiaV6 and are supported by instant3Dhub.
PMI & Model Views¶
CatiaV6 offers rich 3D PMI and Model Views capabilities which are supported by instant3Dhub.
Metadata¶
CatiaV6 metadata is supported by instant3Dhub.