Quality checking of CAD data in accordance with the VDA standard – SF GEOCHECK

Why quality checking of CAD data using SF GEOCHECK is essential

50 test criteria – automatic, compliant with standards, documented

SF GEOCHECK is the add-on for quality checking CAD data in PTC Creo in accordance with VDA Recommendation 4955/1 and the Odette specification. The module checks parts, drawings and imported models against 50 criteria – either interactively or fully automatically in batch mode. Errors are detected before they become costly in downstream process chains.

In the automotive and mechanical engineering industries, high-quality CAD data forms the basis for smooth manufacturing and supply processes. Errors in geometry, poor data quality or models that do not comply with standards lead to extra work, delays and additional costs in downstream process chains – often only recognised when it is too late for a cost-effective correction.

The use of checking programmes such as SF GEOCHECK throughout the design process prevents precisely this: errors are identified as they arise, documented and rectified at a reasonable cost. This results in more robust design methods, shorter development times and greater reliability when exchanging data with customers and suppliers.

Compliance with standards

Testing in accordance with VDA 4955/1 and the Odette specification – recognised standards for data exchange in the automotive industry.

Early fault detection

Inspection carried out throughout the design process identifies geometric errors before they lead to delays or additional costs in downstream processes.

Automation

Batch mode enables fully automated test runs without graphical visualisation – ideal for large quantities of components and supplier audits.

Comprehensive documentation

Template models extend the inspection to cast, milled, turned, welded and plastic components – there are no restrictions based on component type.

Quality checking of CAD data: SF GEOCHECK in detail

What SF GEOCHECK checks

SF GEOCHECK checks all relevant object types in PTC Creo for technical and mathematical quality: parts, drawings and all imported models – including STEP, IGES, VDAFS, CATIA and other formats. Components that have been processed using add-on modules such as Sheetmetal are also fully supported.

The module has been further developed in close collaboration with the VDA Data Quality Working Group and BMW, and expanded to include 50 test criteria. In addition to the VDA 4955/1 requirements, it also complies with the European Odette specification.

The key assessment criteria at a glance

SF GEOCHECK covers all geometrically critical areas of a CAD model. Typical check categories include:

Curves: Mini-curves, continuity (C0/GC1/GC2), degree of the polynomial, ripple
Naturally bounded surfaces: surface patches, minimum radius of curvature, folding
Bounded faces: Mini-faces, self-intersection, edge alignment, identical faces
Surface sets: Normal orientation, continuity of surface sets
Other criteria: regenerability, suppressed/unused design elements, GeomChecks

In addition to the VDA and Odette standards, individual company standards can be configured, ensuring that SF GEOCHECK is tailored precisely to the company’s own quality requirements.

Interactive mode and automated batch processing

SF GEOCHECK offers two operating modes: In interactive mode, inspection results are displayed graphically directly within the 3D model, enabling designers to pinpoint and rectify errors. In batch mode, the inspection runs fully automatically without a graphical user interface – ideal for the automated batch inspection of large quantities of components. Both the inspection report and all visualisation data are generated, which can subsequently be displayed in interactive mode without the need for a further inspection run.

Quality assurance as a competitive advantage

Supplying CAD data that complies with standards and is free from errors builds trust among customers and partners – whilst at the same time reducing the time and effort spent on rounds of corrections and queries. SF GEOCHECK makes the quality checking of CAD data a fixed, automatable part of the design process.

Quality checking of CAD data with SF GEOCHECK

Analysis

We record your quality standards, specification requirements and typical defect patterns in your CAD data.

Furnishings

You will receive SF GEOCHECK configured in accordance with your company’s standards and VDA and Odette requirements.

Integration

Our experts integrate SF GEOCHECK into your design process and, if required, into batch processing.

Enquiry & advice

Our experts will show you how SF GEOCHECK automates the quality checking of your CAD data in PTC Creo in accordance with industry standards – please get in touch.

General enquiries about SF GEOCHECK

What is SF GEOCHECK and what is it used for?

SF GEOCHECK is an add-on for PTC Creo designed to perform quality checks on CAD data in accordance with VDA Recommendation 4955/1 and the Odette specification. It checks components, drawings and imported models against 50 criteria for technical and mathematical data quality – either interactively or fully automatically in batch mode.

Which standard forms the basis for CAD data validation using SF GEOCHECK?

SF GEOCHECK performs checks in accordance with VDA Recommendation 4955/1 issued by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and the European Odette specification. Both standards define requirements for the technical and mathematical quality of CAD data in the automotive sector.

Which CAD formats and objects can SF GEOCHECK check?

SF GEOCHECK checks native Creo parts and drawings, as well as all common import formats such as STEP, IGES, VDAFS and CATIA. Parts created using Creo add-on modules, such as Sheetmetal, are also fully supported.

What is the difference between interactive mode and batch mode?

In interactive mode, inspection results are displayed graphically directly on the 3D model, enabling faults to be pinpointed and rectified. In batch mode, the inspection runs fully automatically without user intervention – ideal for automated production testing. The visualisation data generated can then be displayed in interactive mode without having to repeat the inspection run.

Can in-house quality standards be stored in SF GEOCHECK?

Yes, SF GEOCHECK supports individual company standards in addition to the VDA and Odette standards. This allows the inspection programme to be tailored precisely to the company’s own quality requirements, without having to compromise on the standard specifications.

How does SF GEOCHECK help with the quality checking of supplier data?

SF GEOCHECK can check imported models from suppliers (STEP, IGES, CATIA, etc.) as well as native Creo models. This enables quality issues in supplied CAD data to be identified at an early stage, before they cause problems in the company’s own manufacturing or design processes.

What test criteria does SF GEOCHECK cover?

SF GEOCHECK checks against 50 criteria in the categories of curves, naturally bounded surfaces, bounded surfaces, surface assemblies, solids and drawings. Typical checkpoints include mini-surfaces, the continuity of surface connections, self-intersection, regenerability, and suppressed or unused construction elements.

For which sectors is CAD data quality checking using SF GEOCHECK relevant?

SF GEOCHECK is primarily aimed at companies in the automotive and mechanical engineering sectors that exchange CAD data in accordance with VDA or Odette standards. It is particularly beneficial for OEMs, suppliers and engineering service providers who regularly receive or pass on CAD data from external partners.