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How to convert FBX
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FBX

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.

JT

The JT format is a widely used lightweight 3D data format designed for efficient visualization, collaboration, and sharing of complex 3D models and assemblies. JT files retain the fidelity of the original 3D models while minimizing file size, enabling fast loading and efficient data transmission. The format supports features like precise geometry, polygonal meshes, product structure, PMI, and animations.

Support of JT in CAD Exchanger

CAD Exchanger can import files compliant with the JT formats from 8.0 to 10.5 and ISO14306:2012 and export files compliant with the JT formats 9.5 and ISO14306:2012. Such support includes:

  • B-Rep representations;
  • polygonal representations (incl. multi-LODs);
  • assembly structure, including via external files;
  • names;
  • user-defined and validation properties;
  • PMI;
  • colors, materials, textures;
  • layers.

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Pros of the format

Advanced compression and economical data representations

Advanced compression and economical data representations

This file format employs advanced compression techniques to reduce file sizes without compromising the quality of the content. This enables efficient transmission and storage of 3D models and other visual data.

In addition to compression, JT excels in economical data representations. The format is structured in such a way that it is relatively easy to read in a selective manner. Files typically have smaller file sizes than STEP files with comparable geometry. This is achieved by efficiently representing mesh data through topological compression algorithms, which take advantage of the connectedness between mesh patches. Despite the economical representation, JT files maintain their integrity and provide a comprehensive visualization of the original content.

Great meshes support

The format is designed to handle complex 3D mesh data efficiently, making it ideal for applications that require high-quality mesh representation. JT allows for the precise encoding of mesh data, including vertex positions, normals, texture coordinates, and more. It supports both triangular and polygonal meshes, enabling the representation of intricate geometric shapes with smooth surfaces.

Moreover, JT provides robust support for mesh attributes and properties. This means that additional information, such as material properties, colors, and transparency, can be associated with individual mesh elements or the entire mesh.

Cons of the format

Proprietary legacy

While the ISO standardization brought greater openness and interoperability to this format, the legacy of its proprietary history can still be observed in certain cases. It's worth noting that the specifications for JT 7.x and earlier versions were not publicly accessible, and the format was essentially proprietary, so there were difficulties in reading and writing this format in other CAD software. Fortunately, these versions of files are not used much these days.

Implementing full-fledged JT support can be a demanding task. It requires a deep understanding of the intricacies of the format's specifications and algorithms. This can be a barrier for smaller software developers or independent implementers who may not have the resources or expertise to fully grasp and implement the complexities of the format. As a result, the quality of JT support can vary significantly.

Another consequence of the proprietary nature of the JT format is its lack of openness. The latest JT precise geometry representation is based upon the Siemens PARASOLID, which means a high-quality implementation of the format must also be able to read and write this format.

FAQ

Is JT format specification publicly available?

Yes, it is. The JT Open Program, an industry consortium dedicated to promoting the widespread use of JT as a 3D data format, provides the JT file format specification to the public. It offers various resources, including technical documentation, whitepapers, and specifications related to the JT format. These resources can be accessed on the official JT Open Program website.

What are JT file extensions?

The JT format typically uses the file extension ".jt" to denote JT files. It is worth noting that alternative file extensions may also be used in certain cases, depending on the software or system. However, ".jt" remains the most commonly used and recognized extension for JT files across different platforms and applications.

How to open a JT 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 .jt 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 JT format

The JT format, also known as Jupiter Tessellation, has a long history that traces its origins back to the 1990s. It was developed by Engineering Animation Inc., a company specializing in computer graphics and visualization software. EAI created the JT format as a lightweight and versatile solution for visualizing and sharing 3D data in industries such as manufacturing and engineering.

In 2001, EAI was acquired by UGS Corporation, which later became Siemens Digital Industries Software. Siemens recognized the potential of the JT format and continued its development, expanding its capabilities and promoting its adoption in various industries. Over the years, Siemens has worked to enhance the format, improve its compression techniques, and ensure compatibility with a wide range of software applications.

The JT format gained further recognition and acceptance when it was standardized by the International Organization for Standardization in 2012 as ISO 14306. This ISO standardization solidified the JT format's position as a reliable and widely supported file format for 3D visualization and data exchange. Today, the JT format continues to evolve and is utilized by numerous companies and industries worldwide for effective collaboration, efficient data sharing, and immersive 3D visualization.

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Convert FBX
to JT

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