3D PDF is a PDF file with 3D geometry inside. Using any 3D PDF enabled viewer, rotation, zoom and part selection is available within the 3D view.
3D PDF is just like a normal PDF (Portable Document Format) file, which contains a 3D view somewhere on some page. Just like a PDF containing an embedded image, except when you put the mouse over it, you can rotate, zoom, pan and explore the scene in 3D (three dimensions). The file actually contains a 3D geometric representation of the scene, not just images from different viewpoints.
Navisworks is a native file of Navisworks® project review software by Autodesk.
Navisworks files come in three formats: NWD, NWF, and NWC. An NWD is a single file that contains all model geometry, environment, viewpoints, and review markups. An NWF file is a list of links to the original files. It doesn't keep model geometry and, to be opened, requires access to the original CAD files. An NWC is a cache file created from any native CAD or laser scan files, when opened in Navisworks.
A CAD file is an output of a CAD software, containing key information about the designed object: its geometry and topology representation, 3D model hierarchy, metadata, and visual attributes depending on the format of the file.
Read moreIn the 4th part of the series, we will take a look at the features of working with wireframe models in 3D CAD software.
Read moreIn the 3rd and 4th parts of the series, we will talk about surface display modes in 3D CAD programs, starting with the shading mode.
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