[rp-ml] dxf Representation

Hi All,

Can anyone help me understand the nature of dxf representation - say
vis-a-vis stl? Are triangles definitively described in dxf format?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygon_mesh

I know that there are two possible ways to "split" a quad (either a
planar quad or a non-planar quad) and I'm wondering if this is fully
determined in the dxf (or vrml) format.

Does this depend on the software generating the dxf? On the quality of
the code?

Does this "fifth edge" end up getting somewhat randomly described upon
import to other 3D software? Does different software handle these fifth
edges differently (i.e. explicitly or implicitly)?

Does all software "pass off" the rendering for this quad to the graphics
card and if so can there be a difference between what is described in
the geometry and what is shown on my screen?

I'm trying to put 2 + 2 together, so to speak..

Sincerely,

-- 
Jonathan
http://www.universaljointdesign.com
development + design + construction
[ blog ] on digital tools, rapid prototyping technologies and the fabrication of free-form structure.