AfterCAD Software Adopts Web3D Consortium X3D Spec for CadXML

The utility of CadXML combined with the power of X3D

VANCOUVER, BC - March 3, 2006 - AfterCAD Software Inc. today announced the adoption of The Web3D Consortium X3D standard on which to base the next generation of CadXML. AfterCAD typically uses CadXML to capture the non-geometric "intelligence" from the original CAD file during conversion to a format like SVG or PDF so that all of the CAD drawings original information is preserved.

"After years of building up our CAD metadata specification to hold everything required in a CAD file for tranfer into SVG, we have decided to base our next version of CadXML on the Web3D Consortium's X3D format." said Kenney Wong, AfterCAD CTO. "One of the things that have always been important for our work is to try to use open standards-based formats (like SVG) as opposed to publishing yet another vendor specific format that people have to adopt."

X3D has matured as a format not just for 3D data but also for many other applications as well. X3D is the next logical step from VRML and much work has been done already by the Web3D Consortium to integrate CAD and GIS concepts natively into the X3D Format itself. AfterCAD will be promoting the usage of CadXML as a "primary assembly point" for client applications and then convert from CadXML to DWG, DGN or other formats as necessary.

"I was truly amazed at the amount of work that has gone into X3D and we believe it has excellent features and staying power" said Chris Boothroyd, AfterCAD CEO. "AfterCAD will likely add some extensions to the X3D format to round out the CAD attribute and metadata offering allowing our clients to leverage X3D enabled tools out there, many of which are open source and free."

CadXML will be part of the new offerings from AfterCAD this year including (but not limited to) AfterCAD Explorer, AfterCAD InSite and AfterCAD CAD2PDF.

For more X3D information and the work done by the Web3D Consortium, visit http://www.web3d.org/

About AfterCAD Software

AfterCAD Software is a leading provider of innovative products and solutions that enable organizations to integrate their XML and CAD data. Our approach creates a platform where business data and CAD data can be merged together without compromise so that all users have everything at their fingertips. We are dedicated to using the latest development and programming technologies to create unique products and services for your consumer base. Many diverse industries utilize our products and custom engineering services including Facilities Management, Inside/Outside Plant Management, Telecom, Parts Catalogs and Auto/Aero Manufacturers.

For more information, visit www.aftercad.com

© 2006 AfterCAD Software Incorporated. All rights reserved. AfterCAD, the AfterCAD logo, AfterCAD Explorer, AfterCAD InSite and AfterCAD CAD2PDF are either registered trademarks or trademarks of AfterCAD Software Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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Mike Lebow
AfterCAD Software Inc.
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