Simlab Soft's Blog

SimLab Plugin for 3DS adds SolidWorks 2012 support

2012-01-16T05:02:00.000-08:00

SimLab Plugin for 3DS Max was updated to add support for SolidWorks 2012.

In addition to SolidWorks 2012 the user will get
Support for importing
SketchUp
SolidEdge
U3D

In addition to the capability of creating
3D PDF files

Exporting to the free SimLab CAD Viewer for iPad/iPhone

Also the user gets a full version of SimLab Composer 3D PDF edition to create advanced interactive 3D PDF files.

The cost of a single license is $99
Current users can upgrade to the latest version for $39

This is a great value offer with Solid Capabilities.

The plugin is supported on 3DS Max 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 (32 and 64)

More information is available here

Adding Solidworks 2012 support to SimLab Composer

2011-11-21T01:47:00.001-08:00

SimLab Composer 2.4 was updated to add support for SolidWorsk 2012 models. Users interested in importing SolidWorks 2012 parts and assemblies should uninstall the current version they have and download the updated version from the following link.

SolidWorks 2012 support is ready for (3D PDF, Rendering, and Animation editions of SimLab Composer)

SimLab Soft release Composer / Rhino integration component

2011-11-20T05:32:00.001-08:00

SimLab Soft released today the new free SimLab Composer / Rhino integration component.

The new component unleashes the power of SimLab Composer from inside Rhino 4 and 5.

The user can utilize SimLab Composer to create high quality rendered images, and to export Rhino models as interactive 3D PDF.

The integration component also enables the designer to transfer Rhino models to SimLab Composer Animation Edition to create great animations and rendered movies.

More information about the integration component is available here

SimLab Plugin for Maya adds Mac OSX support

2011-11-03T04:48:00.000-07:00

With the updated version of the plugin, Maya users on MacOSX will have access to the functionality of the Maya plugin.

The Mac version of the plugin enables the user to importSketchUp, Rhino, U3D, 3D PDF, and 3DS directly to Maya.

It also enables the Maya user to export 3D PDF files directlyfrom Maya.

The user can export current Maya model as a SimLab Archive File (*.zim) readable using the free application SimLab CAD Viewer on iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch.

The professional license of the plugin costs $99. More information about the plugin is available here

SimLab Plugin for Modo

2011-10-19T01:48:00.000-07:00

With this new plugin, SimLab Soft aims to complete the great features of modo.

The new plugin for modo will add the following capabilities to modo (on Windows and Mac)

Create interactive 3D PDFfiles

3D PDF files enable designers to share 3D models with none technical users. Allwhat the file creator need to do is to open a modo model, select a view andclick the PDF export button.

The file recipient can open the file with the free Acrobat reader, which is availableon almost every Windows or Mac machine.

Export to iPad

The plugin user will be able to save the current modo model as a SimLab Archive file (*.zim) which can be opened using the free SimLab CAD viewer application. iPad and iPhone users will be able to interact with 3D models freely

Import capabilities

The user of the plugin will be able to import the following file formats directly to modo (SketchUp, U3D, IGES, STEP, 3DXML, STL, Inventor( windows only), SolidEdge(windows only))

Transfer to SimLab Composer

The plugin includes a free version of SimLab Composer 3D PDF edition. Advanced users will be able to transfer the model from modo to SimLab Composer to create scene states for generating great 3D PDF documents, and impressive iPad models.

During the introductory period modo users will be able toget the plugin for $75. To get advantage of this offer all what the user needto do is to use the coupon SimLab_Modo when purchasing the plugin. Theintroductory period will end by the end of November.

Click here for getting a free trial or purchasing a license of the new plugin

SimLab Composer 2.4 released

2011-09-28T01:49:00.000-07:00

The new release of SimLab Composer introduces a top quality,very easy to use, decal system that enables the user to add decals to a singleor multiple faces (planner or not). Created decals are used in rendering andare viewable in generated 3D PDF files.

While material management for 3D models was a center pieceof SimLab Composer since the first release, SimLab Composer 2.4 takes materialmanagement to the next level with new capabilities and a revised GUI thatenables the user to streamline the rendering process by combining identicalmaterials, and changing properties of multiple materials simultaneously.

Generated 3D PDF files can now include high quality renderedpreview images. 3D PDF creators will be able to add logo to the generated 3DPDF files.

SimLab renderer in version 2.4 supports depth of field effectto provide the user with more realistic rendered image.

Engineers and designers will enjoy new numerical control forsetting location, orientation and scale of objects and pivots.

In addition to geometry, states, and materials, the newversion of the free SimLab CAD viewer for iPad now supports reading animationsfrom SimLab Composer 2.4.

This new release of SimLab Composer adds support to thelatest version of Mac Lion OXS.

SimLab Composer 2.4 is supported on Windows and Mac and is availablein English, German, French, and Italian.

Exporting 3D PDF from Auodesk inventor

2011-09-05T02:52:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft starts the beta testing for SimLab Plugin for Autodesk Inventor

Inventor 2011 and 2012 (32 and 64 bit supported)

Users with no SimLab Composer (2.31 or later installed) should install the full version

SimLab Plugin Full 64 bit

SimLab Plugin Full 32 bit

Users with SimLab Composer (2.31 or later installed) should install the light version

SimLab Plugin Light 64 bit

SimLab Plugin Light 32 bit

Please forward comments and issues regarding the plugin to support@simlab-soft.com

Starting public Beta for SimLab Composer 2.4

2011-09-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft starts today the public beta for SimLab Composer 2.4

Please be advised that we are still working on fixing few issues and handling some rough edges, but if you are interested in testing new features in SimLab Composer 2.4 please download it from the following links

SimLab Composer 2.4 Beta Animation Edition
SimLab Composer 2.4 Beta Rendering Edition
SimLab Composer 2.4 Beta 3D PDF Edition

SimLab Composer will utilize same licenses used in SimLab Composer 2.x, as it will be a free upgrade for 2.x users.

New features included in SimLab Composer 2.4 can be found at SimLab forum

SimLab Plugin for SolidEdge released

2011-08-22T02:09:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft releases today SimLab Plugin for SolidEdge.

The new plugin is supported on SolidEdge ST2, ST3 and ST4 (32 and 64 bit)

Installing the pluign will add the following SimLab Ribbon under Add-Ins

Using the plugin, the user will be able to complete the following tasks from inside SolidEdge:

1- Rendering photorealistic images

2- Exporting Wavefront OBJ files

3- Exporting SketchUp files

4- Exporting models to iPad (opened using the free application SimLab CAD Viewer)

5- Creating advanced 3D PDF files

The plugin also enables the user to transfer SolidEdge models to SimLab Composer, to do the following tasks :

1- Creating advanced animations that can be exported as rendered movies or animated 3D PDF files

2- Creating scene states, to show different configurations of models, states are exported to 3D PDF files, and to iPad viewer

3- Assigning advanced rendering materials by dropping materials from the material library

The plugin can be downloaded from http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/SimLab-Plugin-for-SolidEdge-trial.aspx

SimLab 3D PDF plugin for Rhino version 2.5

2011-08-16T07:10:00.001-07:00

SimLab Soft today releases version 2.5 of the plugin SimLab 3D PDF for Rhino.

The latest version of the plugin takes the visual appearance of the generated 3D PDF files to the next level by exporting environment and reflection maps from rhino to the generated 3D PDF files.

The model designer will now be capable of enabling measurement in the generated 3D PDF files. Enabling measurement will enable the file recipient to do distance, radius, and angular measurements on the 3D model included in the 3D PDF file.

The latest version of the plugin includes a better handling of Rhino blocks. It is now capable of handling models including blocks faster with less memory.

Additional fine tuning is now given to the file creator to enable her/him to show or hide world axis, to enable or disable selection of the 3D model.

More information about the plugin is available here

SimLab Soft releases a new Import/Export plugin for 3DS Max

2011-08-08T05:18:00.000-07:00

The new plugin adds the following import capabilities to 3DS Max

1- SolidEdge
2- SolidWorks
3- Rhino
4- SketchUp
5- U3D
6- 3DXML

It adds export support for

1- SketchUp
2- U3D

The plugin enables the user to export interactive 3D PDF files from 3DS Max.

It also enables the user to export 3D Model to be viewed on iPad using the free application SimLab CAD Viewer for iPad.

The price of a single license is $99

The plugin is supported on 3DS Max (2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012) 32 and 64 bit.

Installing the plugn adds the following menu to 3DS Max

A trial version of the plugin can be download here

Starting Beta Testing for SimLab Plugin for Solid Edge

2011-07-28T06:19:00.000-07:00

The new plugin adds SimLab Power to Solid Edge.

Installing the plugin adds the following menu to SolidEdge

The plugin enables the user to do the following from inside SolidEdge

Create interactive 3D PDF files

Render 3d models to generate photo realistic rendered images

Export the model to IPad to be viewed using the free application SimLab CAD Viewer

Export the model to different 3D file formats including OBJ, SketchUp, U3D and other file

formats

32 bit version of the plugin can be downloaded from

64 bit version of the plugin can be download from

Please send your notes and comments to support@simlab-soft.com

SimLab 3D OBJ Viewer

2011-06-19T00:57:00.000-07:00

SimLab 3D OBJ Viewer is an IPad /IPhone application for viewing 3D OBJ (Wavefront) files (*.obj) Obj is a standard file format exported from a wide range of 3D/CAD applications.

SimLab 3D OBJ Viewer supports importing 3D Geometry, material colors, and texture.

wavefront (*.obj) is a standard 3D format that can be exported from different 3D design application

, pan and zoom the imported model.

More information about the viewer is available here.

New 3D STL viewer for IPad

2011-06-19T00:36:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft releases a new 3D stereolithography (*.stl) file viewer for IPad.

SimLab 3D STL Viewer suppors importing ASCII and binary STL files.

SimLab 3D STL Viewer enables the user to view, rotate, pan and zoom the imported model.

More information about the stl viewer is available here

Scene states in SimLab Composer

2011-06-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

Capturing scene states is a great new feature in SimLab Composer 2.3. It allows the user to capture multiple states of the model.Capturing a scene state is a simple process. All what the user need to do is to set the model state and to click the menu Scene States -> Capture Scene State (Ctrl + D).

The user can review, manage and capture scene states from the Manage Scene States widow which can be viewed by clicking the menu Scene States -> Manage Scene States.

When capturing a scene state, SimLab Composer will automatically capture the following information for the user:

1- Camera

2- Materials
3- Object Positions
4- Section planes

5- Shown/Hidden states

Scene states are exported to 3D PDF files and to SimLab CAD Viewer on IPad
Scene states can be useful in many cases

following tutorials shows you how

to utilize scene states in:

1- Creating Assembly Manual

2- Creating House Walkthrough

3- Visualize a 3D Models

4- Showing multiple configuratioof a 3D model

PDF version of the tutorials can be downloaded here

SimLab Composer / Autodesk Maya integration released

2011-05-30T00:15:00.000-07:00

The new integration component makes the power of SimLab Composer available to Maya users.

Installing the integration component after installing SimLab Composer will add the following menu to Maya

Functionality provided include

Import 3D models

Maya user will be able to import all file f

ormats supported by SimLab Composer directly to Maya, this includes SketchUp (8 and prior), STEP, IGES, ACIS, Rhino, SolidWorks

(2011 and prior), Inventor, SolidEdge, 3D PDF, 3D XML, U3D, and STL

Export 3D models

Maya user will be able to export current

models as U3D, 3D PDF, STL, and DirectX

Export to IPad

Current model can be exported directly from inside Maya as a SimLab Archive file (*.zim) which can be opened by SimLab CAD Viewer on IPad, IPhone and IPod touch

Transfer to SimLab

The user can transfer current Maya model to SimLab Composer, this will automatically open SimLab Composer in mini (plugin) mode. The user can use mini mode to assign materials from the material library, to change 3D PDF settings, and to create scene states

Rendering

SimLab Composer Rendering and Animation editions enable the user to render the current model from inside Maya

SimLab Composer/Maya integration can be downloaded here

SimLab Composer available in French and German

2011-05-21T04:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Pilou and Ralf, SimLab Composer is now available in French and German.

When starting the installation the user can select the interface language. Available choices today are English, French and German.

After installation the user can change the interface language from Preferences -> Advanced (this is the only option on Mac)

SimLab Composer should be restarted to have the interface updated to the desired language.

More information about SimLab Composer can be found here

SimLab Soft adds support for 3DS Max 2012

2011-05-19T01:11:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft updated the plugins:

1- 3D PDF exporter for 3DS Max
2- SolidWorks Importer for 3DS Max

To Add support to 3DS Max 2012.

The plugin now supports (2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012) (32 and 64 bit)

Viewing Collada Models on IPad

2011-05-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Using the new release of SimLab Composer 2.3, the user can share collada models with other IPad users.

To achieve this all what the user needs to do is to import the collada model to any edition of SimLab Composer, and to click File -> Export to IPad.

The exported SimLab archive file (*.zim) can be opened using the free SimLab CAD Viewer. The archive model with include the geometry, materials and textures.

The user can use the capture state capability of SimLab Composer to view different configurations of the models. States can be used to view different materials, show/hide parts of the model, and to capture different camera views.

More information about SimLab CAD Viewer can be found here

Running SimLab Composer as a SketchUp plugin

2011-05-16T04:01:00.000-07:00

The latest release of SimLab Composer (2.3) adds new free SketchUp integration component. Installing SimLab Composer \ SketchUp integration component (after installing any edition of SimLab Composer 2.3) will add the following menu to Google SketchUp

The new integration adds the following capabilities to SketchUp:

Import 3D models

SketchUp user will be able to import all

files formats supported by SimLab Composer directly to SketchUp, this includes FBX, OBJ, STEP, IGES, ACIS, SolidWorks, Inventor, SolidEdge, 3D PDF, 3D XML, U3D, STLExport 3D models
SketchUp user will be able to export current models to any of the file formats supported by SimLab Composer including FBX, OBJ, U3D, 3D PDF, and STL

Export to IPad

Current model can be exported directly from inside SketchUp as a SimLab Archive file (*.zim) which can be opened by SimLab CAD Viewer on IPad, IPhone and IPod touch
Transfer to SimLab

The user can transfer current SketchUp model to SimLab Composer, this will automaticlly open SimLab Composer in mini (plugin) mode. The user can use mini mode to assign materials from the material library, to change 3D PDF settings, and to create scene states.

Rendering

SimLab Composer Rendering and Animation editions enable the user to render the current model from inside SketchUp.
Rendering from inside SketchUp utilizes SimLab Composer retain material capability, which means it is enough to assign rendering materials once inside SimLab Composer (plugin mode). Performing a rendering from inside Google SketchUp after that will automatically update materials to high quality rendering materials, which will make working on multiple stages of the model faster and easier.

SimLab Composer can be downloaded from http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-products/ ... trial.aspx
SimLab Composer / SketchUp integration can be downloaded from http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-products/ ... ation.aspx

SimLab Composer 2.3 and the integration plugin are supported of Windows and Mac

SimLab Soft releases SimLab Composer 2.3

2011-05-12T04:48:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft announces the release of SimLab Composer 2.3 (the ultimate tool to create, render and share 3D models)

In this release 3D PDF creation capabilities of SimLab Composer moves to the next level, with:

1- Introducing cross section and measurement in 3D PDF
2- Supporting reflection and bump mapping in 3D PDF materials
3- Full Unicode support
4- Exporting lights from SimLab Composer to the generated 3D PDF file

SimLab Composer 2.3 introduces new scene state capture functionality. Each scene state captures a configuration of the scene including positions of objects, shown/hidden status, material and color assignments, current view, and light parameters. Supporting scene states makes it easy for the user to create amazing 3D PDF files that shows different configurations of the model.

SimLab Composer is capable of exporting models to the free SimLab CAD Viewer for IPad. SimLab CAD viewer shows the model with its materials and textures, it also includes support for scene states and cameras. Using SimLab CAD Viewer the user can rotate, pan, and zoom the 3D model.

SimLab Composer 2.3 supports new CAD integration mode. In this mode SimLab Composer makes its Import, Export, Export to IPad, and Rendering capabilities accessible from inside the CAD applications.

The new retain material technology (included in SimLab Composer 2.3) saves the user a significant amount of time by automatically applying material assignment to imported models. Using retain material enables the user to create top quality rendered images from inside the 3D/CAD application and saves the user a significant amount of time while working on different revisions of the design project.

SimLab Composer 2.3 includes many additional encashment to 3D scene building, 3D PDF creation, Rendering and Animation. SimLab Composer 2.3 is available in 3 editions (3D PDF, Rendering and Animation editions) and is supported on Windows and Mac.

More information is available at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-products/simlab-composer-main.aspx

SimLab 3D PDF from Rhino adds support for Rhino 5

2011-03-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft updats the 3D PDF plugin for Rhino to add support for Rhino 5 (32 and 64 bit)

SimLab 3D PDF pluign now supports:

Rhino 4 + Rhino 5 (32 bit)
Rhino 5 (64 bit)

More information is available here

SimLab 3D PDF plugin for Maya

2011-02-16T00:18:00.000-08:00

SimLab Soft releases the first 3D PDF plugin for AudoDesk Maya. Users of the new plugin will be able to create interactive 3D PDF files to share their designs from inside the Maya environment.

The plugin is supported for Maya (2009, 2010, and 2011) (32 and 64 bit)

A quick tutorial for the plugin can be found here

More information about the plugin can be found here

Adding multi language support to SimLab 3D PDF plugin from Rhino

2011-01-02T11:47:00.000-08:00

SimLab soft released an updated version of SimLab 3D PDF plugin for Rhino. The new version adds Unicode support. The user can use any language for header/footer, object and camera names. The interface is now available in English, German, French, Italian, and Simplified Chinese. Released version was tested with Rhino 4 andRhino 5 (32 bit).

SimLab Soft started the beta testing for Rhino 5 (64 bit version), if you are interested in testing the plugin with Rhino 5 (64 bit version), please send an email to support@simlab-soft.com and we will send you the details.

Two new exporters for Google SkechUp

2010-12-28T05:56:00.000-08:00

SimLab Soft released today two new exporter plugins for Google SketchUp.

The FBX exporter plugin enables the user to export SketchUp models as FBX 2011 files, while the OBJ exporter enables the user to export Wavefront (OBJ) files.

Both plugins works on Windows with SketchUp (7, 7.1 and 8) free and Pro

More information about the FBX Exporter can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/FBX_Exporter_From_Sketchup-main.aspx

More information about the OBJ Exporter can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/OBJ_Exporter_From_Sketchup-main.aspx

Adding SolidWorks 2011 support in SolidWorks importer for 3d studio max

2010-12-21T07:36:00.000-08:00

SimLab Soft released today a new update for the plugin SolidWorks importer for 3D Studio Max. The new update adds support for SolidWorks 2011 files.

The plugin is supported on 3DS Max (2009, 2010 and 2011) 32 and 64 bit. The new version is capable of handling larger and more complex SolidWorks models.

More information can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/solidworks-to-3DSMAX-main.aspx

Note: this is a free upgrade for all users of the previous versions of the plugin.

SimLab Soft 3D animation contest

2010-11-28T04:36:00.000-08:00

Today SimLab Soft starts the animation contest.

To participate in the animation contest:

Pick the 3D models for your scene. Animate your scene using SimLab Composer (Animation edition), and export the result as a rendered movie, or an animated 3D PDF file.

Prizes will be distributed in two categories:

1- Best rendered movie
2- Best animated 3D PDF file

The prizes will be as following ( 3 prizes for each category ):

1- First prize: IPad
2- Second Prize: IPod touch
3- Third prize: IPod shuffle

Each user can participate with as many entries as desired, but will be limited to one prize.

· The contest starts today.
· Last day for submitting animations will be the 29^th of December,
· Voting by SimLab Forum users (www.simlabforum.com) will be open between the 30^th of December and until the 2^nd of January.
· With the end of the voting period, prizes will be mailed to the winners.

Animation topic is open so please feel free to pick you topic, sample topics may include steps for assembling a part, animated machine, architectural walkthrough, showing a 3D concept, or a small entertainment movie.

Anybody can participate in the contest:

Even if you do NOT have a license of SimLab Composer, you can use a trial version, a trial version for Windows and Mac can be downloaded from http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-products/simlab-composer-trial.aspx

Creating Animations using SimLab Composer is straight forward and easy to master. Start by taking a look at those two quick animation tutorials.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq8OwfUHBwg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tAjeXKnOV0

To learn more, look at the animation section in the help document, available in SimLab composer under Help -> Help topics

If you needed any help, please post your questions to the SimLab Composer Animation Edition section in the forum www.simlabforum.com , help and support will be provided for all participants in the contest.

SimLab Soft releases SimLab Composer 2.2

2010-11-19T13:27:00.000-08:00

SimLab Soft announces the release of SimLab Composer 2.2, the ultimate tool to create, render and share 3D Scenes. SimLab Composer 2.2 is available today and is supported on Windows and Mac.

Starting from this release SimLab Composer is available in 3 editions:

1- SimLab Composer (3D PDF Edition): this edition allows the user to build 3D scenes from models using different CAD and 3D formats, and to share those models as interactive 3D PDF files.

2- SimLab Composer (Rendering Edition): this edition adds to the 3D PDF edition capabilities, a fast and accurate photorealistic renderer based on Luxion technology that enables the user to create high quality rendered images.

3- SimLab Composer (Animation Edition): this edition makes it easy for CAD designers and architects to animate their model

s and to create impressive walkthroughs. Animation edition adds to the Rendering edition, creating animations, and sharing them as animated 3D PDF files, and as rendered movies.

SimLab Composer 2.2 includes many enhancements and new features:

Animation:

Key frame creation, and editing

Path creation, and Path following

Round table animation

Camera animation

Material animation

Light animation

Rendering:

Giving the user the ability to scale environment images (HDR).

Controlling rendering anti aliasing.

3D PDF:

SimLab Composer 2.2 gives the user the ability to control automatic camera switching. The user will be able to determine the stop and effect durations for switching between different cameras.

The user will be able to select the switching effect to be zoom, roll, or a combination of the two.

Building 3D scenes:

Controlling the field of view (field of view angle for the camera): user selected field of view is used in rendering and in created 3D PDF files.

Creating exploded view.

Breaking faces: In addition to breaking geometries, the user of SimLab Composer 2.2 has the ability to break geometry to its faces. After breaking geometry to its faces the user can assign a unique material for each face.

Deleting unused materials: This new tool allows the user to clean the scene materials from any material not used in the scene.

Import/Export:

SimLab Composer 2.2 adds the following new importers on Windows:

SolidEdge (ST3 and prior)

Inventor (2011 and prior)

ACIS

The following importers were enhanced

SketchUp 8

Collada

FBX 2011.3

STEP

IGES

Memory optimization was applied to all importers to enable SimLab Composer to handle larger scenes.

OBJ exporter now enables the user to select keeping the structure, or combining objects based on materials.

A new DirectX exporter was added.

Sample rendered images and movies can be found here

Simple 3D PDF files can be found here

More information about SimLab Composer can be found here

SketchUp Importer for 3DS Max adds SketchUp 8 support

2010-11-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft releases today an updated version of the SketchUp Importer for 3DS Max.

Version 1.2 adds SketchUp 8 support to the plugin.
The new version gives the user the ability to select importing the SketchUp model as a single geometry with multiple materials, or as multiple objects.
The new plugin enables the user to control the scale of the ScetchUp model to use it with other models designed with different units.

More information can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/sketchup-to-3DSMAX-main.aspx

SimLab 3D PDF plugin adds Unicode support

2010-11-01T02:34:00.001-07:00

The new release of SimLab 3D PDF plugin for Google SketchUp enables the user to use Unicode characters in header/footer text, component and scene names.

Version 2.3 also implements a new algorithm for determining the 3D navigation center, which makes it easier for the file recipient to navigate the 3D scene.

In addition to the English interface, the plugin now includes a German translation, more translations will be included with the next versions of the plugin.

More information can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/3D-PDF-from-sketchup-main.aspx

SimLab 3D PDF plugin adds Sketchup 8 support

2010-09-30T01:16:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft released today the new version of SimLab 3D PDF for Google SketchUp. The new version adds support for Google SketchUp 8, in addition to that it add new features including:

Exporting component names to the model tree

The model tree in the generated 3D PDF file now shows the components names used in the SketchUp model, which makes it easy for the user to Hide/Show different parts of the model.

Control camera transition

The user now has the ability to determine the static time and effect time, and the type of effect used when switching between cameras in the automatic camera mode.

Select cameras to be included in the 3D PDF file

The new camera dialog allows the user to select the set of scenes to be included in the 3D PDF file, the user can changes the names of the cameras and to select their order.

New Documentation

The Mac version will be available soon; we are currently waiting for Google to fix an issue with the Mac version of the SDK to release the new plugin on Mac.

More information about the plugin is available at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/3D-PDF-from-sketchup-main.aspx

SimLab Soft releases four importers for SketchUp 8 and 7

2010-09-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

The new importers enable the user to import FBX, OBJ, SolidWorks and STEP files to SketchUp 8 and 7.

During the public beta period many users tested the new plugins, which insured us that they meet the high quality standards to be released.

Since the public beta, SimLab added progress bar to inform the user that the importers are working on importing the geometry, added support for OBJ files with negative index values, and updated the plugins to work with SketchUp 8.

SimLab releases version 2.1 of the 3D PDF plugin for Rhino

2010-08-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft releases today the new version of SimLab 3D PDF for Rhino. The new version adds many enhancements to the existing plugin to enable the user to have a better control over the generated 3D PDF file. Those enhancements include:

Building an object tree in 3D PDF that matches the layer structure inside Rhino, this includes building the correct tree structure and matching the names used inside Rhino. This enhancement enables the file recipient to have a better understanding of the model, and to hide/show the different parts of the model.

New camera manager dialog, the new dialog allows the file creator to select the views to be included in the generated 3D PDF files, to rename them and to select their order in the file.

The 3D PDF file creator will have better control over the automatic camera mode, which opens the 3D PDF in presentation mode, where 3D PDF camera automatically switches between the different views included in the file. In release 2.1, the user will be able to set the pause duration, the camera effect duration, and the camera effects to be used (zoom, roll, or a combination of the two). When the 3D PDF file is opened the camera will stand still for the pause duration and then start doing the effect(s) for the effect duration, after that it will switch to the next view.

New documentation showing the user how to install, use, and make the best out of the plugin.

More information is available here

Starting Public Beta program for four new SketchUp importers

2010-08-03T05:45:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft starts today the public beta program for four new SketchUp importers.

The new importers are:

Obj/Wavefront

Solidworks (parts and assemblies) up to version 2010

STEP (203 and 214)

FBX

The plugins are supported on Windows, Users interested in testing the new plugins will be provided with trial licenses. Each of the plugins will be offered during the beta period for the special price of $49. Users who obtain a license during the beta period will receive a free upgrade to the first release of the plug-in.

SimLab Soft is working on a Mac version for the OBJ, STEP and FBX importers.

SimLab's SolidWorks importer adds support for 3D Studio Max 2011

2010-07-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft released today the new version of the SolidWorks importer for 3D Studio Max.
The new version adds many enhancements to the plugin which enables the user to import native SolidWorks parts and assemblies (*.sldprt and *.sldasm) to 3D Studio Max, those enhancements include:

• Adding support for 3DS Max 2011: Version 1.1 of the plugin supports 3DS Max (2009, 2010 and 2011) (32 and 64 bit)

• Optimizing the memory usage: Version 1.1 is now capable of handling larger and more complex SolidWorks models

• Remembering last import directory: The user does not need to select the full path to open her/his SolidWorks files

• Optional Scaling: The user can set an optional scale factor to automatically scale imported SolidWorsk files

Starting from today and until the end of August you will be able to get the plugin for the great price of $97. To get this discount please enter SimLab_Summer in the Coupon field

More information can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/3DSMAX-to-3DPDF-main.aspx

Note: this is a free upgrade for all users of the previous version of the plugin.

SimLab 3D PDF Export plugin adds support for 3D Studio Max 2011

2010-07-24T02:36:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft released today an updated version of the 3D PDF Export plugin for 3D Studio Max. The new release adds 3D Studio Max 2011 to the supported versions. With this addition, the plugin now suppors the following version of 3D Studio Max (2009, 2010, and 2011)

Simlab 3D PDF from Autodesk 3D Studio Max plugin, enables the user to create 3D PDF files from inside the 3D Studio Max environment.

Documentation and an introductory tutorial can be downloaded by clicking here

SimLab Soft releases SimLab Composer 2.1

2010-07-08T02:27:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft announces the release of SimLab Composer 2.1. This new release focuses on improving the rendering experience of SimLab Composer users.

This new releases enables the user to view and rotate environment images from inside SimLab Composer, to make the 3D model blend in its environment, and to have a better control over the lighting on the model to achieve a stunning photorealistic image.

This new release provides the user with the new Render preview capability, which enables the user to make fast decisions about material selections, lights, and rendering parameters.

In addition to jpeg output format, SimLab Composer 2.1 supports TIFF as an output format, TIFF file format supports saving the alpha channel to enable using rendered images in image post processing applications to add great effects.
Version 2.1 gives the user the ability to add automatic ground reflection to the rendered image.

Starting from version 2.1 users will be able to easily exchange materials they created in SimLab Composer. A material library can be exported as a single mlb file which includes material definitions, texture images used by the library, and preview images of the materials. The recipient of the mlb file can import the contents of the material library by using the import material library functionality.

SimLab Composer automatically exports the object tree to the 3D PDF files it creates. Version 2.1 provides the user with tools to organize the object tree; changes made to the objet tree in SimLab Composer are automatically reflected in the generated 3D PDF file. The recipient of the file can use the organized tree to hide/show different parts of the model.

Version 2.1 provides the user with a new tool to break geometry, which automatically breaks unconnected parts in a 3D model; this functionality will make many 3D models imported in flat file formats usable for building 3D Scenes. Version 2.1 also offers significantly faster import time for step files

Version 2.1 is available today and is supported on Windows and Mac

More information is avaialbe at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-products/simlab-composer-main.aspx

SimLab Soft releases SketchUp and SolidWorks importers for Autodesk Maya

2010-06-07T00:17:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft releases SketchUp and SolidWorks importers for Autodesk Maya

With the new releases the user will be able to import native SketchUp (*.skp) and SolidWorks (*.sldprt and *.sldasm) up to the latest versions (SketchUp 7.1 and SolidWorks 2010) from inside Maya.

The prices for a commercial license of the SketchUp importer is $95 and the price of the SolidWorks importer is $150

The plugins are supported on 32 and 64 bit versions of Autodesk Maya 2009, 2010 and 2011

More information about SketchUp importer can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/sketchup-to-Maya-main.aspx

More information about the SolidWorks importer can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/solidworks-to-Maya-main.aspx

SimLab 3D PDF plugin for 3DS Max is now available

2010-04-19T14:34:00.000-07:00

Simulation Lab Software just released the new 3D PDF plugin for 3DS Max. Using the plugin, Max designers and artists will be able to extend their reach and share their models with none technical savvy clients.

All what the recipient will need, is to open the file using the free Adobe acrobat reader, recipients will be able to rotate, pan, zoom, or view the 3D PDF as a presentation.

The plugin is available for 3ds max 2009 and 2010 (32 and 64 bit) .The introductory price for the plugin is $75.

A free version that does not support advanced setting is available for none-commercial use.

More details about the plugin can be obtained from http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-plugins/3DSMAX-to-3DPDF-main.aspx

SimLab Composer, a new rendering option for Rhino users

2010-04-16T13:23:00.001-07:00

" click here to see the full image
Rhino model from flyingarchitecture.com "

With the release of SimLab Composer 2.0, Rhino users now have a new option for rendering their models.

SimLab Composer includes a fast, top quality renderer. It is capable of reading 3DM, STEP, OBJ, 3DS, FBX, and many other file formats. SimLab Composer is very easy to use, the user should be able to create great images in few minutes (including learning how to use SimLab Composer), to see SimLab Composer in action please take a look at this rendering tutorial at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvFnrzQwLx8

In addition to creating High quality images SimLab Composer enables the user to create interactive 3D PDF files. To see how you can use SimLab Composer to create a 3D PDF file please take a look at the 3D PDF tutorial http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iamKbMf6_Wc&feature=related

SimLab Composer is supported on Windows and Mac, and is offered at introductory price of $149 until the end of May 2010

Simulation Lab Software releases SimLab Composer 2.0

2010-04-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

SimLab Composer is a 3D sharing and rendering application, which allows the user to create 3D scenes from a wide range of CAD and 3D Design formats, including SketchUp, Rhino, Solidworks, STEP, IGES, FBX, Collada, 3DS, OBJ, and STL.

3D Scenes built by SimLab Composer can be exported to other 3D applications using many standard 3D formats including Collada, obj, STL, FBX, OSG and U3D.

The new version of SimLab Composer includes an accurate and fast renderer, which enables the user to create photorealistic rendered images of created 3D scenes.

SimLab Composer enables the user to export interactive 3D PDF files for sharing 3D scenes. The new version gives the user full control over the generated 3D PDF file.

SimLab Composer was designed to be very easy to use, SimLab Composer users are able to create stunning results in few minutes of using it.

SimLab Composer 2.0 is supported on Windows and Mac OS.

SimLab Composer will be offered at an introductory price of $149, this price offer will end by the end of May 2010

More information about SimLab Composer can be found at http://www.simlab-soft.com/3d-products/simlab-composer-main.aspx.

3D PDF from Revit models

2010-04-08T21:55:00.001-07:00

3D PDF can serve as a great tool to share your designs with clients and prospects, all what the recipient will need to interact with the model is the free version of Adobe Acrobat reader.
Using SimLab Composer, you will be able to create interactive 3D PDF files, to share your Revit designs.

SimLab Composer supports importing FBX and DWG file formats, which are two export options available in Revit. When SimLab Composer Imports an FBX file generated from Revit, in addition to the geometry and materials it brings the textures and texture coordinates, so the model will look almost identical to the rendered model inside Revit.

SimLab Composer gives you full control over the generated 3D PDF file. Click here for a sample 3D PDF file generated from the FBX export of a Revit model.

You can notice the model tree, which allows the recipient to hide/show different parts of the design.

Please visit SimLab Composer 3D PDF tutorial to learn how easy it is to create a 3D PDF file using SimLab Composer.

Sharing 3D Models with SimLab Composer 2.0

2010-04-04T14:49:00.000-07:00

The new release of SimLab Composer is all about sharing 3D models.

SimLab Composer is a solid 3D tool, by being a tool it does not try to force you to go through a predefined workflow that you cannot deviate from, it keeps your creativity unleashed while providing you with what you need to make the best of your 3D models and current workflow.

So what does SimLab Composer 2.0 provide you?

1- Great scene building capabilities: SimLab Composer enables you to combine models from different file formats including SketchUp, Rhino, Solidwroks, STEP, Collada, FBX, IGES, 3DS , OBJ and many other formats. It provide you with the tools to arrange geometries to create 3D scenes.

2- Created 3D scenes or models can be exported to other 3D applications: exported file formats include obj, Collada, FBX, U3D, OSG, and others.

3- Create interactive 3D PDF of your scenes: a 3D PDF file is the best way to share your 3D models, without risking the original editable 3D asset. Recipients of the 3D PDF file can view, rotate and zoom the model. The good part is: all what the recipient will need to view and navigate your scene is the popular and free adobe acrobat reader.

4- Why waste a nice scene with bad presentation? Create a great photo-realistic high quality rendered images of your scenes using the integrated fast and high quality renderer.

When adding the new functionalities to SimLab Composer we made sure to make it accessible to the user. We believe that you will be able to learn SimLab Composer 2.0 in few minutes, and be able to use it to create stunning results quickly.

If you want to take advantage of the advanced features in SimLab Composer stay tuned, we will publish articles about making the best use of SimLab Composer 2.0

3D PDF plugin for 3DS Max

2010-01-28T20:28:00.000-08:00

Today, the beta testing period for the new SimLab 3D PDF plug-in for 3DS Max has started.

The new plug-in will allow 3DS designers to share their creation to a wide audience by creating interactive 3D PDF pages.

The new plugin will support 3D Studio Max 2009 and 2010 (32 and 64 bit)The beta period is scheduled to end by the end of February, so if you need to apply to share in the beta program, please drop an email to support@simlab-soft.com

New 3D PDF experience for Rhino users

2010-01-07T21:02:00.001-08:00

SimLab Soft released today the second version of the 3D PDF exporter for Rhino, this new version includes many enhancements over the previous version.

This new version will not only allow you to create a plain 3D PDF file from your model, it will also allow you to create a real 3D presentation for your model, it opens great doors for your imagination.

Now you are able to fully control the document, use a backplate image, use background music to go with your presentation, add your PDF header document and much more.

For a full list of the new features in this new version please take a look at 3D PDF from Rhino

Following are sample 3D PDF files created from Rhino 4 using the new plug-in. Please click on the image to download the 3D PDF file:

SimLab 3D PDF exporter from SketchUp 2.0 to be released soon

2010-01-01T17:13:00.000-08:00

We are truly grateful for the great feedback we received from the users of the first version of the plug-in. This feedback was the main force behind this new version.

While the first version allows the plug-in user to create a 3D PDF file to share, the new version gives the user a full control over the generated file, so you send a document which really presents your work.

Here is a list of the major enhancements in the new release:

Control over the PDF page:
a. Size of the page
b. Margins
c. Back color (or image of the PDF page)

Control over the 3D Section:
a. Default light to be used
b. Render mode
c. Navigation mode
d. Back plate for the 3D section

Show or hide the 3D tool bar in the created 3D PDF

use the optional password parameter to protect your documents

Merge with other PDF files, this allows you to append the generated 3D PDF file to the end of your project description file (generated using any PDF generation tool)

Add background music to make your interactive 3D PDF more interesting

Exporting the scenes from SketchUp. The new generated file will include all the scene views created by the user, so the recipient can navigate between the scenes easily. We also added automatic camera mode, which automatically switches between the different scenes

More control over the header and footer text. Now you can select the appropriate fonts for the header and footer text, also you can select the appropriate font color and size

Advanced users now have the ability to insert their own Java Scripts, for the document and the 3D sections

Following are sample PDF files generated using the new plug-in. The generated files do not use the advanced Java script features, so do not worry if you are not a Java guru.

We are very proud of this new edition. We hope that you will enjoy using it, the same way we enjoyed making it.

All our current users are eligible for free upgrade to the new version. It is also your chance to get the new version for the low introductory offer price ($75). The price of this new plug-in will go up by the first of February 2010

Note: it is always best to use the latest version of Acrobat reader which can be download for free from http://get.adobe.com/reader/

Solidworks importer for 3DS max

2009-12-31T18:32:00.000-08:00

SimLab Soft today released Solidworks importer for Autodesk 3D Studio Max. The new plug-in allows its user to import native Solidworks parts and assemblies (*.sldprt and *.sldasm) created in Solidworks up to and including the latest version Solidworks 2010 to 3D Studio Max.

If you are an MCAD designer using Solidworks to create your designs and want to finish your work in 3DS Max, or an artist creating high end visualization for models designed in Solidworks, then you should try the new plug-in, which will help you to do your task with joy and ease.

To take the plug-in for a test drive, click here to download the plug-in, send us a trial license request. We will send you a license which will allow you to try the plug-in for 10 times, to make sure that it works great with your models.

Happy 2010.

3D PDF power for Rhino users

2009-11-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

SimLab Soft’s latest Plugin makes the sharing power of 3D PDF accessible from within the Rhino environment.

Jewelry, consumer electronics, furniture and architecture models, created in Rhino, can now be easily shared with colleagues and potential customers.

Click here to read more about 3D PDF for Rhino Plugin

Generating 3D PDF from Revit Models

2009-10-30T07:13:00.000-07:00

SimLab Soft is adding support to generate interactive 3D PDF files from Autodesk Revit models to the next release of OSG Composer CAD.

SimLab Soft is looking for your exceptional Revit models, to test and preview this functionality.

If you have some exceptional Revit models, that you are willing to share with us, please send them to info@simlab-soft.com.

We will publish those models with full credits for their creator(s), and you will receive our gift of a free license of the next version OSG Composer CAD.

* Image above courtesy of Autodesk

3D PDF Plug-in for SketchUp 7

2009-10-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

SimLab today released 3D PDF SketchUp Plugin. Using the new plug-in SketchUp 7 will be able to export interactive 3D PDF files that can be shared with others.

Generated 3D PDF files can be opened using the popular and free Adobe Acrobat reader, which removes the need for asking the recipient to install new software.

Why this is important?

As an architect imagine the power of generating a 3D PDF file, that you can share with your client to view your design and to provide you with a quick feedback. Unlike static images, interactive 3D PDF files give its user a real understanding of the model he is viewing.

The Plug-in is supported on Windows and Mac

Volvo utilizes OSG Composer

2009-07-21T01:04:00.000-07:00

SimLab is glad to know that the Volvo truck team is using OSG Composer in their VR and 3D visualization projects, we appreciate the encouragement and the kind words we received, but what we are truly grateful for is the feedback.

Volvo team provided us with suggestions to make OSG Composer a better product, to make it more useful and this is exactly what we are looking for.

We want you to enjoy using OSG Composer, and we want to make sure OSG Composer is helping you to the max. If you have a list of features you are looking for, or if you have something you want to be improved in the workflow, please let us know.

OSG Composer 1.2 was just released, so if you want to have your features included in the next release please send them soon.

* the image above is proprietary of Volvo http://www.volvo.com

Breaking barriers between Collada and CAD

2009-07-18T00:56:00.000-07:00

Since the first published specification, Collada came with a clear message of breaking barriers between 3D tools, and applications. It allowed 3D assets to move through the users selected pipeline, rather than forcing him to follow a predefined one. Each stage in the pipeline adds more to the 3D asset, some of them adding shaders, others adding physics and so on.

OSG Composer version 1.2 helps in breaking the barriers between CAD and Collada. It allows the user to create scenes using different 3D/CAD files, and to export those scenes to Collada while maintaining their assembly structure, so they become ready to go through the amazing journeys of the Collada pipelines.

OSG Composer is ready

2009-06-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

At SimLab we are very excited to release the first version of OSG Composer, when we started our development we had few Corner stones, OpenSceneGraph was one of them. We enjoyed working with OpenSceneGraph and we saw the great advantages it gives to OpenGL developers.

Because of that we decided to make our first product dedicated to OSG. We made a nice product which makes building great OSG scenes easy and fun.

The need to support CAD formats was obvious, so we created OSG composer CAD edition. It is an inexpensive version of OSG composer, which gives OSG developers the ability to import geometries from different CAD sources to their scenes.

For more information about formats support in OSG composer CAD edition, you can refer to the product website.

For OSG developers who need to add CAD importers to their applications, SimLab offers a high quality, low price path. They can license our CAD importers to use them in their applications.

In future blogs we will share tips and tricks, how to benefit most of OSG Composer, examples, new products, technical discussions, and more.