What it is for

Import your CAD model into 4Reality to view it in real time, present it and measure it, without converting it in third-party software. 4Reality opens STEP, IGES, FBX, OBJ, STL and Datasmith files directly: you start from your original file and reach a presentable scene in a few minutes. For a CAD assembly, the recommended format is STEP.

Plans: all of them, including Designer (free).

Before you start

  • Your model exported from your CAD software in one of the supported formats: STEP, IGES, FBX, OBJ, STL or Datasmith.
  • For assemblies, export the complete assembly rather than part by part: the assembly structure is preserved on import in STEP (recommended format) and in Datasmith.
  • Check the export unit in your CAD software (millimetres or metres): 4Reality preserves the scale of your file, so a wrong export unit produces a model that is too big or too small.

Steps

  1. Open 4Reality and create a new project, or open an existing project.
  2. Start the import in one of two ways: Import > Import CAD menu in the top ribbon, or the Import CAD quick button in the left panel. Then select your file. You can select several files at once by holding CTRL or SHIFT: they are imported into the same project.
  3. Wait during loading: large assemblies can take a moment, the geometry is prepared for real-time display.
  4. Once the model is displayed, orbit around it to check that it is complete and at the right scale.
  5. Save your project.
Menu Import et bouton rapide Import CAD
Annotated screenshot: Import menu and Import CAD quick button

Expected result

Your model appears in the scene, ready for materials, lighting and presentation. In STEP and Datasmith, the assembly structure is preserved. You can navigate around it in real time as soon as the import is done.

Common problems

  • The model is tiny or gigantic: 4Reality preserves the scale of the imported file, so the problem comes from the export unit. Re-export from your CAD software with the correct unit (millimetres or metres, depending on your file).
  • Parts are missing: the export was partial. Re-export the complete assembly, making sure all parts are visible in your CAD software at export time.
  • The model shows without colours or materials, or with incomplete materials: it depends on the format. Materials carry over completely in Datasmith, and partially in STEP and OBJ. For the rest, materials are applied inside 4Reality, see the PBR Materials chapter.
  • The import is very slow: the file is probably very heavy. Simplify the source model (remove invisible details: threads, small internal parts) and re-export.

See also

  • Import a point cloud (LAS, LAZ, E57)
  • Apply and adjust PBR materials
  • Solution page: Integration (4reality.ca)
  • Blog article: From CAD model to render, importing STEP, IGES, FBX in 4Reality

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