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How to import 3D object in 3ds Max?

Published in 3D Modeling 3 mins read

Importing a 3D object into 3ds Max is a straightforward process accomplished primarily through the "Import" function in the "File" menu.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Open 3ds Max: Launch 3ds Max on your computer.

  2. Start a New Scene: If you don't already have a scene open, create a new one by going to File > New. Choose the appropriate new scene option (e.g., New All).

  3. Access the Import Function: Navigate to the "File" menu located at the top-left corner of the 3ds Max window. Select "Import" > "Import." This will open the "Select File to Import" dialog box.

  4. Select the 3D File: In the "Select File to Import" dialog box, browse to the location where your 3D object file is saved. Choose the file you want to import (e.g., .obj, .fbx, .3ds, .dwg). Click "Open."

  5. Configure Import Options: After selecting the file, an import options dialog box specific to the file type will appear. The options presented here depend entirely on the file format of the 3D object you are importing.

    • Common Options to Consider:
      • Scale: Adjust the scale of the imported object to ensure it's the correct size in your scene.
      • Units: Ensure the units used in the imported file match the units set up in your 3ds Max scene. Mismatched units can lead to scaling problems.
      • Up Axis: Verify that the "Up Axis" is correctly set (usually Y or Z). Incorrect up axis settings can lead to the object being imported lying on its side.
      • Materials: Decide whether to import materials associated with the object.
      • Animation: If the file contains animation data, choose whether or not to import the animation.
      • Layers: Decide whether to import objects on specific layers.
      • Welding: Some import options allow welding vertices based on proximity to automatically close gaps in the geometry.

  6. Complete the Import: After configuring the import options to your liking, click "OK" or "Import" (the button label varies depending on the importer). 3ds Max will then import the 3D object into your scene.

  7. Examine the Imported Object: Once imported, take a look at the 3D object to ensure it has been imported correctly. Check its position, scale, materials, and geometry.

File Formats:

3ds Max supports a wide variety of 3D file formats. The most common include:

  • .max (Native 3ds Max file)
  • .fbx (Filmbox, widely used for interchange between 3D applications)
  • .obj (Wavefront Object, a common, simple format)
  • .3ds (Older 3ds Max format)
  • .dwg (AutoCAD drawing format)

The specific import options will vary depending on the chosen file format. For example, importing an .fbx file might present animation options, while importing a .obj file might focus primarily on geometry and material settings.

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