How Rasterex processes PDF, CAD and BIM documents.
Rasterex processes technical documents server-side, detects the source format and prepares browser-ready content for one embedded Canvas. PDF, 2D CAD and 3D BIM each use a format-appropriate processing path.
One Canvas, with processing designed for each document type.
The customer application owns document access and workflow. Rasterex identifies the supplied file type, processes it on the server and gives Canvas the representation and information required to display and work with that document in the browser.
This is why a technical-document workspace can support PDF pages, CAD drawing structure and browser 3D models without requiring a client-side authoring tool or plugin.
From a source document to an embedded technical-document workspace.
- 01
Source document
The host application provides an accessible PDF, CAD or BIM document for Canvas to open.
- 02
Server-side processing
Rasterex detects the source format and selects the appropriate document-processing pipeline.
- 03
Browser-ready representation
The processing result is prepared for the unified Canvas while retaining the information needed for the format-specific workflow.
- 04
Embedded Canvas
Canvas displays the result inside the customer application, which controls the surrounding UI and workflow.
The processing output matches the work users need to do.
Rasterex renders PDF text and vector content for browser viewing without a client-side plugin. The Canvas workspace supports page operations, form filling and markup workflows.
Best for document review, forms, redlining and PDF-based drawing workflows.
2D CAD
DWG, DXF, DGN and PLT source data is processed server-side into Rasterex’s optimized Rx2B representation. Canvas can use the resulting drawing structure for layers, blocks, navigation and measurement.
Best for drawing review, layer-aware workspaces, takeoff and revision workflows.
BIM and 3D
IFC and supported 3D models are converted server-side to GLB, the binary glTF format used for browser 3D rendering. Navigation information and model metadata are supplied in JSON files alongside the model.
Best for browser 3D navigation, model structure and property-driven workflows.
Rasterex handles technical-document processing; your application retains control.
- Your application controls identity, authorization and document access.
- Rasterex selects a server-side processing path based on the supplied document type.
- Canvas presents browser-ready technical-document content inside your application.
- Viewer SDK or iframe integration connects Canvas tools and events to your product workflow.
Document-processing answers.
Does Rasterex process technical documents in the browser?
Rasterex processes PDF, CAD and BIM documents server-side, then prepares browser-ready content for the unified Canvas. The browser application embeds and controls Canvas; it does not need a client-side CAD or BIM plugin.
How does Rasterex process DWG, DXF, DGN and PLT files?
Rasterex processes the native AutoCAD and MicroStation vector data server-side into its optimized Rx2B representation. Canvas can then use drawing information for workflows such as layer visibility, block structures, navigation and measurement.
How are IFC and 3D BIM models prepared for the browser?
Rasterex converts supported 3D models server-side to GLB, the binary glTF format used for browser 3D rendering. Navigation information and model metadata are supplied alongside the model in JSON files.
Does this replace the host application’s document workflow?
No. The host application continues to own its document access, identity, authorization and business workflow. Rasterex prepares and presents the technical-document content inside the embedded Canvas workspace.