Converting Pro E models to 3ds Max

[Barbaroja]

I'm using PolyTrans to convert Pro-E models to 3ds Max - a colleague is suggesting that we use npower's PROE2MAX software instead.Presently, we are exporting the models and assembies as .stl and importing them into Max via PolyTrans plugin. This works pretty well. Any ideas, experience will be greatly appreciated.

 

[pro_eek]

For rendering in 3DS Max, I've exported STL files from Pro/E with afine mesh. Import into 3DS Max and use the smooth modifier.


My only problem was that I found it hard to select different surfaces to apply different materials, especially if there are many polys. So I created different parts in Pro/E where there are different materials, to make selection easier in 3DS Max. I'm sure there is a better way to select different surfaces within 1 part, to apply different materials...

 

[dgs]

We are using a STEP/IGES import plugin of some kind here (not sure the details, 3DS Max isn't part of my responsibilities). STEP will bring an assy in as different bodies in 3DS Max, I believe.

There's no way in Pro|E to create separate bodies other than making them separate parts.

 

[mgallman]

I have been a long time user of n-power software. The best part is the ablility to save a step file out of an assembly and import it into a Max file as seperate parts. Once I get it into Max I convert all the parts into editable mesh. If you keep it in the N-power format, you can not work with your files again with their license.

For later versions of Max, I have been using the OBJ output of pro. Later versions of Max has this import ability. The files look similar to a stl file but the mesh is better.

Good Luck...

Mgallman