3MF Consortium
Develops and promotes the 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF), an open-source XML-based file format standard for additive manufacturing that enables full-fidelity 3D model transfer across applications, platforms, services, and printers.
- CEO / Founder
- Duann Scott
- Team Size
- 11-50
- Stage
- Active
Technology & Products
Key Products
The primary "product" is the 3MF specification itself, an open-source XML-based file format standard for additive manufacturing. They also provide implementation guidance, sample files, and conformance tests through their GitHub repository.
Technological Advantage
Proprietary XML-based format supports color, materials, textures, and multi-part assemblies in a single file, addressing limitations of STL/OBJ/AMF; network effect from widespread industry adoption (32 products from 17 companies as of 2018).
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Eliminates interoperability issues in 3D printing workflows by providing a complete, human-readable, and extensible file format, reducing development costs and accelerating innovation for member companies.
How They Differentiate
3MF provides a complete, extensible, and ready-to-print format with native support for advanced features like color and materials, unlike STL (geometry-only) and OBJ (limited interoperability); faster adoption driven by industry consortium backing vs. AMF.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
3D design software companies, 3D printer manufacturers, additive manufacturing service providers, and industrial users
Industry Verticals
Aerospace/Defense; Automotive; Medical; Consumer Goods; Industrial Manufacturing
Competitors
AMF (Additive Manufacturing File Format)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Adopted in 32 products from 17 companies as of November 2018; over 35 member companies including major industry players; became an ISO/ASTM international standard.
Major Milestones
Founded in 2015 by Autodesk, Microsoft, and HP; 3MF adopted by 17 companies in 32 products (2018); Joined Linux Foundation as open standards project (2020); Became ISO/ASTM 52915 international standard; Appointed Duann Scott as Executive Director (2022)
Notable Customers
Member companies who adopt and implement the 3MF standard, including 3D Systems, Autodesk, Dassault Systèmes, HP, Materialise, Microsoft, and Stratasys.