Ansys SpaceClaim vs ICEM Surf
Ansys SpaceClaim
ansys.synopsys.comICEM Surf
3ds.comSide by side
| Figure | Ansys SpaceClaim | ICEM Surf |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Spec score · Simulation Software | 8.1 (#6) | 8.1 (#7) |
| Spec score · 3D CAD Software | 8.1 (#26) | 8.2 (#23) |
| File import and export | Import: .dsco, .sat, .sab, .asat, .asab, .pdf, .igs, .iges, .ipt, .iam, .msh, .tgz; export: .dwg, .dxf, .CATPart, .CATProduct, .cgns, .xls, .xlsx, .msh, .tgf | ICEMDB, EDF, raw data, ASCII part, CATIA V4/V5, IGES, Unigraphics, VDA/FS, scan, STL; output also includes Inventor, VRML, TIFF, CGM, PostScript |
| Modeling method | direct | direct |
| Purpose | Ansys describes SpaceClaim as lightweight 3D modeling software for engineers who want 3D modeling without learning complex traditional CAD systems. | ICEM Surf is a curve and surface modeling tool for defining, analyzing, and visualizing complex free-form CAD surface models. |
| Security | Synopsys states that customer data for its applications is encrypted in transit using HTTPS/TLS 1.2 or better and at rest using AES 256-bit encryption or better. | Dassault Systèmes says its 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform ISMS is certified to ISO/IEC 27001:2022; this certification is stated for the platform, not specifically ICEM Surf. |
| Sheet-metal tools | Yes | Yes |
| Support | Ansys directs users with product-specific inquiries to their Sales or Account Representative, who routes requests to the appropriate support team. | The ICEM Surf support page directs users with further hardware or software questions to ICEM Surf support. |
| Supported platforms | Windows | Windows 10/11 64-bit |
| Surface modeling | Yes | Yes |
Plans
ICEM Surf
- ICEM Surf Learning EditionFree
- ICEM Surf commercial licensesPriced on request
In their own words
Ansys SpaceClaim
Ansys SpaceClaim is a Windows 3D modeling application for engineers who want direct modeling without learning a complex traditional CAD system. It can create, edit, repair, and simplify geometry, including CAD models prepared for simulation, and it supports assembly design, sheet-metal tools, and surface modeling. For reverse engineering, it can autosurface mesh data and convert STL geometry to CAD. Manufacturing workflows include model preparation, jig and fixture design, and sheet-metal design and unfolding. STL tools can repair faceted files and prepare models for 3D printing. SpaceClaim also provides bidirectional geometry linkage with Ansys Workbench. Import formats include .dsco, .sat, .sab, .asat, .asab, .pdf, .igs, .iges, .ipt, .iam, .msh, and .tgz; export includes .dwg, .dxf, .CATPart, .CATProduct, .cgns, .xls, .xlsx, .msh, and .tgf. It is paid, pricing is on request, and a 30-day Discovery trial includes SpaceClaim.
ICEM Surf
ICEM Surf is a curve and surface modeling tool for defining, analyzing, and visualizing complex free-form CAD surface models. It is used in automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and press-tool design. Its modeling tools and dynamic diagnostics support creating and checking Class-A surface geometry. Listed modules include Professional, Master, Magic, Advanced Tools, Safety Analysis, Scan Modelling, and Immersive VR Review and Realtime Rendering. The Scan Modelling add-on handles dense, ordered, or random point clouds from laser and photo digitizers. Safety Analysis detects sharp edges and corners by simulating a sphere rolling across model geometry. Realtime Rendering supports shadows, environments, materials, lighting effects, and VR design reviews. ICEM Surf supports Windows 10/11 64-bit; its 2026 visualization and rendering requirements specify Windows 11 H2 or newer. It needs at least 8 GB of 64-bit main memory. Commercial pricing is on request, and some interfaces and add-on modules require additional licenses. A free Learning Edition is available after signing in or creating a 3DEXPERIENCE ID, for personal learning only and without support.