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Learn how to convert IGS to FBX with CAD Exchanger
An IGS extension (Initial Graphics Exchange) is a 2D or 3D CAD vector file that can store wireframes, surfaces, solids, etc. IGS is mainly used for exchanging CAD drawings based on the Initial IGES (Graphics Exchange Specification) format.
The IGS file structure is based on the ASCII text-based format, which is used in numerous CAD software applications for delivering high-end graphics.
Among CAD applications that support IGS extension are Autodesk 3ds Max, Autodesk Fusion 360, Dassault Systemes CATIA, and Autodesk Inventor.
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.
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:
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Need to work with CAD files in numerous formats? No worries.
From IGS to FBX, CAD Exchanger gets you covered.
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.
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Read moreWe will start a series of a blog posts dedicated to different 3D CAD file formats. We begin with the veteran among CAD data - IGES.
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