Overview
ISO 13584-101:2003 - "Industrial automation systems and integration - Parts library - Part 101" - defines the basic_geometry representation category and the protocol for exchanging geometrical views of parts by parametric programs. The standard specifies how shape information for parts in a parts library can be represented and exchanged using FORTRAN programs that implement the geometric programming interface defined in ISO 13584-31:1999. By agreement between sender and receiver, non‑standard parametric formats may also be used.
Key Topics
- Representation category (basic_geometry): Captures the generic concept of a part’s shape and may be associated with any parts library item.
- Identification and properties: Defines view logical names, view control variables (e.g., side, geometry level, detail level, variant/unregistered variant) and rules for the shapes provided in the basic_geometry view.
- Exchange format (parametric program): Specifies exchange by FORTRAN subroutines compliant with ISO 13584-31, including required subroutine naming, language restrictions, excluded/obsolete FORTRAN features, character encoding and program status.
- Conformance requirements: Lists required implementation resources, methods, and constraints for a library delivery file referencing the protocol, including defined conformance classes and related compliance tables and rules.
- Supplementary material: Normative registration of information objects and an informative annexe with a physical file example.
Applications
ISO 13584-101 is practical for:
- CAD and PLM vendors implementing parts libraries and geometric programming interfaces to enable neutral exchange of parametric shapes.
- Manufacturers and suppliers who publish parametric part geometry in a neutral, standardized way for downstream consumers.
- System integrators building library exchange workflows between CAD, CAM and ERP systems.
- Software developers writing FORTRAN bindings or converters that conform to ISO 13584-31 and ISO 13584-101.
Benefits include consistent parametric shape exchange, interoperability of parts libraries, and support for automated generation of geometry from parametric programs.
Related Standards
- ISO 13584-31:1999 - Geometric programming interface (mandatory binding for FORTRAN exchange).
- ISO 13584-1, -24, -26, -42 - Parts library overview, logical models and description methodology referenced for library structure and metadata.
- ISO 10303 (STEP) and ISO 10303-42 - Product data representation and geometric/topological resources referenced for definitions and resources.
Keywords: ISO 13584-101, basic_geometry, geometrical view exchange protocol, FORTRAN, ISO 13584-31, parts library, parametric program, geometric programming interface, parts library exchange, conformance.