Standard for the Exchange of Product Data (.step)
The STEP file extension, also known as Standard for the Exchange of Product Data (ISO 10303), is widely used in the realm of 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) files for facilitating data interoperability between different software systems. Initially developed in the late 1980s, it enables the precise exchange of complex product information, which includes geometry, topology, and material properties, ensuring seamless collaboration in engineering and manufacturing projects. Its standardized format is crucial for integrating diverse CAD tools, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing errors in the product development lifecycle.