CDL File – What is .cdl file and how to open it?
CDL File Extension
CADKEY Wireframe Design File – file format by Kubotek
CDL is a file extension for a CADKEY Wireframe Design File, a data file developed by Kubotek. It is a 2D and 3D wireframe modeling format that stores geometric information such as points, lines, circles, and arcs.
CDL File Definition and Usage
A CDL file is a computer-aided design (CAD) file that stores the geometry of a 3D wireframe model. It is native to the CADKEY software suite, which was developed by Kubotek. CDL files contain the basic geometric elements of the model, including points, lines, and curves. They can also include information about the model’s dimensions, materials, and other properties. CDL files are typically used to create and share wireframe models for engineering and design purposes.
Applications and Compatibility
CDL files are widely used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. Engineers and designers use them to create conceptual models, prototypes, and tooling paths. CDL files can be imported and exported into a range of other CAD software programs, making them compatible with a wide variety of design workflows. This interoperability allows users to easily share models with colleagues or clients who may be using different software.
Opening CDL Files Using CAD Software
To open a CDL file, you will typically need to use a specialized CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software application. CADKEY, the software originally used to create CDL files, is one option. Other compatible CAD programs include Autodesk AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Siemens NX.
Once you have installed a suitable CAD program, you can open the CDL file by selecting “File” > “Open” within the application’s interface. Navigate to the location where the CDL file is saved and select it. The CAD software will then load the file’s contents, allowing you to view and edit the wireframe design data.
Alternative Methods of Opening CDL Files
In some cases, you may not have access to a CAD software program. Alternatively, there are online services and converters that can help you open and view CDL files. One such service is VisualCAD, which provides a free online viewer for CDL files. Additionally, there are file conversion utilities available that can convert CDL files to other more accessible formats, such as STL or DXF.
CADKEY Wireframe Design File (CDL)
CDL (CADKEY Wireframe Design File) is a file format used by CADKEY, a 3D mechanical design and drafting software developed by Kubotek. A CDL file stores the wireframe design of a 3D model, including the vertices, edges, and faces that define the shape of the object. It does not contain any surface or solid geometry information. CDL files can be exported from CADKEY and imported into other 3D modeling applications that support the format.
CDL files are typically used for creating wireframe models for quick visualization and conceptual design. They are relatively small and easy to edit, making them suitable for early stages of the design process. However, CDL files do not contain any information about materials, textures, or other details that are necessary for creating a fully rendered or manufacturable model. For these purposes, more advanced file formats such as STEP or STL are typically used.