ShapeFish 2.0 facilitates the switch from STL to AMF with extended metadata

Avante Technology has launched version 2.0 of its ShapeFish software. The application is aimed at engineers in design, manufacturing and quality assurance and offers an easy way to convert STL files into the ISO/ASTM-standardized AMF format (Additive Manufacturing Format). In addition, user-defined metadata can be added to control the entire manufacturing process in a more targeted manner.

The AMF format was published in 2013 as ISO/ASTM 52915 and makes it possible to store far more information than just the geometry of a 3D model. In addition to material properties and color information, individual metadata can now also be stored directly in the file – at file, object or component level. This improves interoperability with other software systems along the entire production chain.

ShapeFish 2.0 is the first commercially available application that enables ISO-compliant conversion from STL to AMF and the editing of user-defined metadata. This feature allows engineers to customize print parameters for different 3D printing systems. For example, multi-part assemblies with different tolerances and surface requirements can be optimized for multiple printing systems.

According to Robert Zollo, President of Avante Technology and member of the ISO additive manufacturing working group, advanced metadata management will improve quality and efficiency in various industries. “The requirements of a bioprinting application for medical approvals are very different from those of aerospace spare parts production. The ability to incorporate application-specific metadata in an ISO-compliant format is crucial for standardization.”

The new version supports 14 predefined metadata attributes, including modulus of elasticity, tolerances and material properties. The additional Custom Metadata Editor function allows users to create their own parameters and embed them in the file.

ShapeFish 2.0 will be released for macOS in March 2025 and will be available via the Apple App Store. An extension for other operating systems and a software development kit (SDK) are planned for later in the year.