Importing 3D models into 3ds Max allows you to bring existing assets into your projects. There are several ways to do this, ranging from standard file menu options to integrated asset workflows.
Importing 3D models into 3ds Max is typically done using the File > Import or File > Merge functions, or through dedicated asset management tools that integrate directly with the software.
Standard Import Methods
3ds Max supports a variety of 3D file formats. The most common methods involve using the program's built-in file handling:
- File > Import: This option is generally used to open a new scene from a file format not native to 3ds Max (like .OBJ, .FBX, .3DS). It essentially replaces your current scene with the content of the imported file.
- File > Merge: This is the more frequently used method when you want to add objects from another 3ds Max scene (.MAX) or another supported file format (.FBX, .OBJ, etc.) into your current scene. You can select specific objects, materials, shapes, or layers to merge.
Common File Formats for Import/Merge:
- .FBX: (Filmbox) A versatile format widely used for transferring 3D data between software, supporting geometry, materials, textures, rigging, and animation.
- .OBJ: (Wavefront OBJ) A simpler format primarily storing geometry and material references.
- .3DS: (3D Studio) An older native format, still supported but with limitations (e.g., polygon limits).
- .STL: (Stereolithography) Primarily used for 3D printing, containing only raw triangulated mesh data.
- .DWG: (AutoCAD Drawing) Allows importing data from AutoCAD.
- .SKP: (SketchUp Model) Allows importing models created in SketchUp.
When using Merge or Import, you will typically navigate to the file's location and select it. 3ds Max will then present options related to scaling, units, materials, and geometry handling depending on the file format.
Importing via Asset Management Tools
Beyond the standard file menus, many artists utilize asset management software or plugins that integrate directly with 3ds Max. These tools often provide streamlined workflows for browsing, downloading, and importing models from online libraries or local asset collections.
Based on available references, some workflows involve a dedicated interface within or alongside 3ds Max:
- You might first download the desired 3D model file from an asset source using a specific interface element, potentially indicated by a visual cue like a "blue button".
- Once downloaded, the same tool or interface would allow you to bring the object into the scene. This action, which imports the downloaded model into your current 3ds Max project, might be triggered by clicking a different control, perhaps represented by a "green button". This process simplifies adding assets compared to manually downloading and then using the standard Import/Merge menus.
This integrated approach is common with asset libraries like Chaos Cosmos, Evermotion Archexport, and others that offer direct plugins for 3ds Max.
In summary, whether you use the traditional File > Import/Merge commands or leverage integrated asset management tools with dedicated buttons like the "blue button" for download and "green button" to bring the object into the scene as described in some workflows, 3ds Max provides flexible options for incorporating external 3D models into your projects.
