Import Support for FBX, OBJ and Improvements for DWG, DXF

Pathfinder now supports FBX and OBJ file format import for better collaboration with other modeling tools. Pathfinder has supported DWG, DXF, and DAE formats in the past and will continue to do so. All existing file formats have also seen major graphical improvements.

FBX files support improved texture mapping to provide a more accurate representation of the original CAD file. Materials textures will be accurately represented, resulting in a more professional looking analysis. Simply import an unencrypted FBX file as you would other file formats to see the accompanying textures.

Some modeling tools such as Revit export an encrypted FBX file. These will need to be passed through a 3rd-party tool before importing to Pathfinder. We suggest FBX exporter for Revit by SimLab.

Displaying objects in wireframe mode or with outlines turned on will now appear less cluttered. Previously, there were lines drawn over every edge of a triangle in the object’s geometry. The difference becomes clear when shown side by side.

Additionally, Pathfinder now has improved lighting for curved objects. These surfaces will now appear much smoother instead of appearing to have edges. Here is another side-by-side comparison.

All imported geometry will see the outline improvements, however new geometry must be imported to see the smoothing effect. Both of these are visual differences will work for all supported file formats. More analysis of the various import options and instructions on how to use them can be found in the Pathfinder Users Guide.