ModuleWorks Debuts Manufacturing Data Exchange Specification

ModuleWorks, a provider of software components and solutions for CAD/CAM systems and CNC machining, has introduced the Manufacturing Data Exchange Specification (MDES). The new specification aims to enhance the efficiency of manufacturing workflows by enabling data exchange across different platforms and processes.

MDES is a new, open data exchange specification for the manufacturing industry. It is designed to increase the interoperability of different hardware and software systems across all stages of the product lifecycle, from design and planning to production and quality control. The free-to-use specification enables any company to adopt MDES as a universal language for the digital representation of machining assets such as tool components, assemblies, fixtures, stocks, and setups as well as their mounting in machine tools.

Unifying the digital representation of machining assets in an open specification has the potential to simplify and accelerate data exchange by minimizing the need for data bridges between different systems, ModuleWorks says. This would also reduce software development costs and dismantle adoption barriers for new equipment, encouraging manufacturers to leverage the benefits of the latest technology on the market.

With MDES, ModuleWorks aims to facilitate the formation of an open ecosystem for the digital exchange of manufacturing data. The new specification is compatible with the existing industry standards ISO13399 (Cutting tool data representation and exchange) and DIN4000-190 / DIN4003-190 (Tabular layouts and 3D description of fixture devices).

To complement the new specification, ModuleWorks has developed MDESLib-Equipment. These ready-to-use software libraries are part of the ModuleWorks SDK and include basic read/write functionality that enables developers to immediately use MDES with the ModuleWorks toolpath and simulation components.

“By making the specification open and standards-based, we intend to build a growing community around a common language for the digital description of manufacturing assets," says Jasper Sanders, principal product manager—Simulation & Digital Twin at ModuleWorks. "To speed up implementation for our partners, we provide ready-to-use software libraries in our SDK."

For more information about MDES: 

Click here for more information on MDES.

Click here for more information on MDESLib—Equipment.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.