Artwork Conversion Software, Inc.: STL2GBR and STL2GDS

Artwork Conversion Software, Inc., specializes in CAD translators and viewers for the microelectronic, MEMs, and mask lithography industry. Our expertise is in manipulating mask layout databases including GDSII, Gerber, and DXF. We have been in business since 1989 and have over 8,000 customers in the IC, PCB, and chip packaging business. Many MEMs designers use SolidWorks for layout and modeling of nano structures. To create the photolithography masks used to fabricate MEMs, output must be in GDSII format or Gerber format. Artwork’s converters, from STL to Gerber and STL to GDSII, make generating such mask data quick and efficient.

SOLID2MASK slices 3D structures into a series of 2D cros-sections (using the STL file format) and creates mask data for fabrication using IC and PCB lithography processes. There are two versions: STL2GDS, which creates GDSII stream files for IC processing; and STL2GBR, which creates Gerber RS274X files for printed circuit board films.

Both versions include a CAD viewer so that the designer can review the mask data prior to sending it out. The STL2GBR version also includes a hole recognition routine that enables the designer to output flashes and generate drill files needed for the PCB manufacturing process.