Rhino 8 IGES export issue with Bochu tubepro

Rhino
1

Hello everyone,

I’m having a compatibility issue when exporting an IGES file from Rhino 8.

I created a tube model in Rhino 8 and exported it as an IGES (.igs) file. The file opens correctly in Rhino, but Bochu laser tube cutting software cannot import it. The software either reports an import error or fails to recognize the file.

For comparison, I tested exporting the same model from different CAD software:

SolidWorks exported IGES file → Bochu can import successfully.

Rhino 8 exported IGES file → Bochu cannot import.

ZW3D exported IGES file → Bochu cannot import.

This makes me think the issue may be related to Rhino’s IGES export settings, IGES entity types, or compatibility differences between different CAD software exports.

Software information:

Rhino version: Rhino 8

Target software: Bochu laser tube cutting software (version unknown)

Export format: IGES (.igs)

My questions are:

Are there recommended Rhino IGES export settings for better compatibility with CAM or laser tube cutting software?

Does Rhino export different IGES entity types compared with SolidWorks?

Are there specific IGES settings (such as entity type, surface tolerance, or solid export options) that can improve compatibility?

Has anyone encountered similar issues when exporting IGES files for laser cutting or tube cutting software?

I have attached:

Rhino model screenshots

IGES export settings

Bochu import error message

Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

fc0ed369196b2f3aaa16cdda938e71cb
fc0ed369196b2f3aaa16cdda938e71cb1075×851 65.1 KB

D19x0.6x1100_（10pcs).igs (20.5 KB)

2

Is it possible the Bocha software only accepts arcs and straight lines? Draw only a rectangle and a circle and see if that will export across. Bocha does have a lot of limitations on its import, but you would need to ask them for more specifics on that.

Some CAM style software only work with lines and arcs. If it test as only lines and arcs, here is how to convert 2d lines: Preparing Files for Laser and Waterjet Cutting [McNeel Wiki]

4

No, it’s some sort of limitation of what you’re trying to import it into. People have been exporting IGES from Rhino for manufacturing for 30 years.

5

Dear Mr. Davidson,

Thank you very much for taking the time to reply to my question. I honestly didn’t expect anyone to respond, so I was really surprised and happy to hear from you.

I have recently discovered that exporting square tubes from Rhino to IGES works without any problems, while exporting round tubes seems to cause compatibility issues. My current workaround is to export the model from Rhino as a STEP file, open it in another solid modeling software, and then export it as IGES. This process works successfully.

So I believe the issue may be related to how Rhino handles certain solid geometry when exporting IGES. Compared with SolidWorks, Rhino’s solid data may not always be as compatible with some manufacturing tools. Fortunately, I have now found a practical solution to the problem.

I’m writing this on August 21st at 9:18 PM. This is actually the first time I’ve had the opportunity to discuss a Rhino-related software problem with someone on the other side of the world. It feels quite amazing, and I’m genuinely excited about it.

At the moment, I’m also learning Grasshopper and parametric modeling. I’ve become deeply immersed in it. I find this way of modeling incredibly powerful and fascinating.

It’s a pleasure to be able to learn, discuss, and share ideas with you and with everyone in the Rhino community.

Thank you again for your reply and for sharing your experience with me.

Best regards,
Yuyang Liu

China

6

Hello Jim Carruthers,

The software we use here is a manufacturing and production software developed in China. The PMC software available to us here doesn’t seem to be very comprehensive, and there are still many aspects of it that I don’t fully understand.

For me, the most practical solution is sometimes simply to switch to another piece of software to complete the task. I also agree with what you said.

However, I do think there are still some differences between SolidWorks and Rhino. In my current work, I occasionally encounter problems with closed solids and other types of geometry in Rhino. Sometimes the same geometry can be handled very well in SolidWorks without any problems.

So, from my current experience, I still feel that Rhino and SolidWorks have different strengths and compatibility in certain areas, especially when it comes to manufacturing-related workflows and downstream software.

Of course, I’m still learning and exploring these differences, so my understanding may not be complete. I really appreciate your perspective and the opportunity to discuss these issues with you.

Best regards,
Yuyang Liu
China