Convert IGS to POTM via Java

What is IGS file format?

The IGS file format is a common data file format used in computer-aided design (CAD), animation, and computer graphics. It stands for Initial Graphics Exchange Specification and is used to store 3D models, objects, and their attributes. The format was developed by AutoDesk and is used by many CAD programs and animation packages. The format is based on the popular STEP (STandard for the Exchange of Product Model Data) file format, but is slightly different. It stores information in binary form and includes information such as point coordinates, vertex coordinates, camera positions, textures, materials, and model hierarchy. The IGS format is widely used today and can be shared among many different software programs. It makes it easy to exchange 3D data between different applications, including CAD programs, 3D modeling software, and animation programs. The IGS format is a powerful and versatile data file format, offering a range of features for many types of applications. It is considered the most efficient way to store and exchange 3D data, making it the ideal choice for sharing 3D models between teams of designers and engineers.

What is POTM file format?

A POTM file refers to a macro-enabled presentation template created using Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program used for creating slide show presentations. It includes default images, slide templates, macros, and formatting. POTM files are commonly used by PowerPoint users to create multiple .PPTM files with consistent designs and macro settings.

POTM files offer additional functionality compared to typical presentation files, as they support macros. Macros are script-like functions that automate repetitive tasks within PowerPoint. Users can record macros that can be replayed to perform specific actions and assign them to buttons or keystrokes for convenient execution. To record a macro, users can select View → Macros in PowerPoint.

For general presentation creation, users can save their files as .PPTX or .POTX files. However, if they want to create a template that incorporates macros, they can save their presentation as a POTM file.

It’s worth noting that POTM files were introduced by Microsoft when they released Microsoft Office 2007.

To open a POTM file, Microsoft PowerPoint (2007 or later) is the recommended application for full support of presentation formatting and embedded macros on both Windows and macOS. Alternative applications like Apache OpenOffice Impress, Kingsoft Presentation, and Apple Keynote can also open POTM files, but some formatting and macros may not be fully preserved. For Mac users looking to view a POTM file without editing, Apple Preview (bundled with macOS) or Google Drive, a free cloud storage service, can be used.

Online platforms like Google Slides allow users to upload POTM files for viewing, editing, and conversion. However, it’s important to note that Google Slides does not support macros.

To convert a POTM file, various presentation applications including Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, and OpenOffice Impress offer conversion capabilities. In Microsoft PowerPoint for Windows and Mac, users can select File → Save As and choose from formats such as .PPTX, .PPT, .PDF, .ODP, .XPS, .MP4, .WMV, .JPEG, and .PNG to convert the POTM file to their desired format.