IGES Model Comparison System: A Tool for Tsting and Validating IGES Processors

The IGES Model Comparison System (IMCOS) is the first test tool to allow an easy and automatic semantic comparison of CAD models represented in IGES format. By systematically analyzing and comparing entity data and structures of generated and exchanged IGES models, it detects loss of information and functionality resulting from model exchange via IGES processors. IMCOS was designed and implemented as a tabledriven IGES processor to allow external control of the comparison process and full coverage of the current version of IGES (Version 3.0) and future versions. This article presents the basic concepts of IMCOS. The great interest in and discussion of IMCOS have shown the importance of such a test tool. IMCOS may be used as one of several test tools within an overall IGES verification program.