How to convert PTC Creo
to FBX?

PTC Creo by Parametric Technology Corporation, known as Pro/Engineer is a 3D CAD, CAM, CAE, and associative solid modeling application. It provides solid modeling, assembly modeling, 2D orthographic views, FEA, direct and parametric modeling, sub-divisional and NURBS surface modeling, and tools for mechanical designers. Its users are mostly mechanical engineers, designers and manufacturers. The app runs on Microsoft Windows.

The application is based on the parametric modeling approach, which means that it uses parameters, dimensions, features, and relationships to enable design automation and optimization of design and product development processes. Companies with family-based or platform-driven product strategy make use of this approach for what they need to perform successful design processes is a prescriptive design strategy.

The capabilities of the product can be split into three main groups, that is Engineering design, Analysis and Manufacturing. Product design processes include the ability to generate geometry of other integrated design disciplines such as industrial and standard pipe work and complete wiring definitions. Creo has numerous analysis tools which help with the development of the product which include human factors, manufacturing tolerance, mould flow and design optimization. As for manufacturing, the app has tooling options for molding, die-casting and progressive tooling design.

PTC Creo file extensions are .prt and .asm.

The FBX format, also known as FilmBox, is a flexible file format that finds extensive use in the entertainment industry for storing 3D models, animations, and associated digital assets. Created by Autodesk, it is commonly employed in video games, movies, and VR applications. FBX files act as comprehensive repositories, preserving essential details such as 3D shapes, textures, animations, and more.

Support of FBX in CAD Exchanger

CAD Exchanger can import any FBX files and export FBX files of version 7.2, 7.4, and 7.5 in Binary and ASCII format. Such support includes:

• polygonal representations;
• assembly structure;
• names;
• colors, materials, textures.

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Pros of the format

Versatility and Compatibility

One of the major advantages of this format is its versatility and compatibility. FBX files can be easily shared and utilized across various softwares, making it convenient for collaboration between designers and game developers. FBX guarantees effortless transfer and utilization of 3D models and animations across diverse software environments.

Comprehensive Data Storage

FBX files store a wide range of information related to 3D assets, providing a comprehensive solution for content creators. This format allows you to store geometry, textures, animations, lighting, materials, and more in a single file. This comprehensive data storage capability simplifies asset management, ensuring that all the necessary components are packaged together and can be easily accessed or modified as needed.

Cons of the format

Proprietary Format

One of the drawbacks of FBX is that it is a proprietary file format owned by Autodesk. This means that the specifications of the format are not publicly available, making it more challenging for third-party developers to create software that fully supports FBX. While Autodesk provides an SDK for FBX, the closed nature of the format can sometimes limit interoperability with certain software applications.

Large File Sizes

FBX files can sometimes be quite large, especially when they contain complex geometry, high-resolution textures, or numerous animations. This can pose challenges when it comes to file storage and transfer, particularly for projects with limited bandwidth or storage capacity. Files may require additional time and resources for processing, potentially impacting workflow efficiency.

FAQ

Is FBX format specification publicly available?

While the complete specification is not publicly available, Autodesk provides an SDK Programmer's Guide that allows developers to work with FBX files and access the necessary information.

What are .fbx file extensions?

This file format itself does not require any specific sub-extensions, as the ".fbx" extension alone is sufficient to identify the file as an FBX file.

How to open an .fbx file?

To open this file, you will need a compatible software application, for example, CAD Exchanger Lab. Launch the software and navigate to the 'New file' option. Browse your computer's directories and locate the .fbx file you want to open. Then select it and click "Open". Once the import process is complete, the .obj file should be loaded into the software, allowing you to view and interact with the 3D model and associated data.

History of FBX format

FBX was initially developed by Kaydara, a Canadian software company, in the late 1990s. The purpose behind creating FBX was to provide a universal file format that could facilitate the exchange of 3D content.

In 2006, Autodesk, a leading software company, acquired Kaydara and took ownership of this format. Autodesk continued to develop and enhance this format, expanding its capabilities and compatibility with their various software applications such as Autodesk Maya and MotionBuilder. With Autodesk's support and resources, FBX gained even more traction and became widely adopted in the industry.

Throughout its evolution, FBX has expanded its capabilities to encompass an extensive array of features. These include geometry, textures, animations, cameras, lights, materials, and more. As a result, it has emerged as a widely accepted format for exchanging 3D assets, not just within Autodesk software, but also across diverse software applications from different vendors.