In release 3.24.2, we target our efforts towards new versions of formats, not forgetting about Web Toolkit and integration with Unity.
Support of new 4 formats
This time, we introduce import for the latest versions of 4 formats. By staying up-to-date, CAD Exchanger continues to provide users with enhanced compatibility and flexibility.
CATIA V5R33
We have added a new version of CATIA that includes both parts (.catpart) and assembly (.catproduct) files.
SOLIDWORKS 2024
Now, CAD Exchanger supports all versions of file format released from 2004 to 2024. By default, SOLIDWORKS assemblies (.sldasm) carry polygonal representations of external parts (.sldprt).
Creo 10
From the new release, you can import Creo 10, the latest version of Creo Parametric. The importer includes B-Rep representations, assembly structure, names, colors, and graphical PMI.
Solid Edge 2024
Last but not least, we are introducing support for Solid Edge 2024. It includes its part (*.par), assembly (*.asm), and sheet metal (*.psm) extensions.
Enhancements of integration with Unity
Triangle normals calculation feature
Now, you can enable or disable this feature by choice. When enabled, it runs a function that calculates normals where they are absent. The result is more accurate and visually appealing 3D models within the Unity environment.
Changing GameObject hierarchy
Starting from this release, you can specify an existing GameObject as a parent for the GameObject hierarchy resulting from model conversion within CAD Exchanger. This feature provides users with greater flexibility and control over how converted models are structured and organized within the Unity environment.
Now, you can import the contents of a CAD Exchanger model into Unity not only starting from the root element but also as a sub-branch of any desired object. This option is particularly useful in scenarios where you need to integrate multiple models or components into a single Unity scene or preserve specific relationships.
Web Toolkit refinements
Fit operation for multiple scene nodes
Earlier, you could fit only one scene node, for example, one part. Now, there is a possibility to choose a few ones. This feature allows you to focus on specific areas of interest, improving visibility in the Web Toolkit.
Taking a screenshot of the current viewport
This screenshot capture functionality offers a convenient way to preserve and share visual representations of 3D models. The one-click screenshot can include any existing features, such as measurements, PMI, etc. It is quite convenient if you need to showcase designs to clients, create presentations, or document project progress.
Changing the background color
Now, you can customize the background color of the viewport, tailoring the environment to suit your preferences or specific project requirements. By default, the color is transparent, but you can easily choose any color you want for the project. This feature allows you to see the model more clearly in some cases or makes it easier to examine fine details and maintain concentration.
SDK updates
Improved quality of mesh simplification and generated meshes
Mesh simplification is a critical process in CAD workflows, as it allows for the reduction of complex mesh data while preserving the original geometry. This enhancement not only makes the mesh simplification more effective but also simplifies mesh edges more accurately.
Improved performance of logging in subprocess mode
Since this release, we use buffering in subprocesses, which allows us to send logs in batches. This feature significantly reduces the overhead, resulting in enhanced overall performance and speed of response.
Format improvements
We have added numerous improvements to both BIM and MCAD formats. They include:
- 3D XML: fixed import of models containing transformations with negative scale factor;
- CATIA: fixed several issues and crashes caused by wrong import of B-Rep data, fixed a crash during parsing of product structure data, names for implicit assemblies defined within the same CATProduct file are now imported;
- DWG: improved import of LineWeight data;
- DXF: fixed some missing curves in export of 2D drawings;
- IFC: fixed wrong export of non-ASCII symbols, fixed a crash caused by import of faces with zero direction vector;
- Inventor: fixed a crash during import of B-Rep data, fixed a problem with missing external references;
- NX: fixed a crash during import of product structure data;
- OBJ: fixed a crash in import and incorrect import of geometry.
- SOLIDWORKS: added import of polygonal representation from versions 2007 and 2008.
There also are some minor changes in UNIGINE, Unity, WTK, and SDK. Check out a complete list of new features and bug fixes in the CHANGES.txt file.