How do you compare model changes and validate change requests?

Comparing model changes is essential for ensuring design accuracy, validating customer change requests, and avoiding costly rework. In industries with complex supply chains, such as automotive and aerospace, detecting even minor changes in CAD models can prevent errors, ensure compliance, and streamline collaboration. xCompare is a feature-based comparison software that integrates with CATIA V5.

It allows users to:

• Detect changes in geometry, dimensions, colors, tolerances, and annotations.
• Compare parts, products, drawings, or CGR files directly in CATIA or in batch mode.
• Generate detailed reports highlighting differences.

To compare model changes and validate change requests using xCompare:

1. Load models:
   • Open the two versions of the model (e.g., CATParts or CATProducts) to be compared.
2. Run the comparison:
   • Use xCompare to analyze every feature of the models
   • The tool highlights differences such as moved geometry, modified dimensions, or altered annotations.
3. Generate reports:
   • xCompare creates HTML-based reports with snapshots of changes.
   • A 3D report option allows sharing results with non-CAD users via a web browser.
4. xCompare supports comparisons between:
   • CATIA V5 models (CATParts, CATProducts, CATDrawings).
   • JT and SMG files for downstream processes or data