Can AutoCAD Open OBJ Files?
If you are a designer or engineer, chances are you have come across OBJ files in your work. OBJ files are a common 3D file format used to store and exchange 3D models between different software applications.
But can AutoCAD, one of the most popular design software programs, open OBJ files? Let’s find out.
Understanding AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a powerful computer-aided design (CAD) software that allows users to create, modify, and analyze 2D and 3D designs. It supports various file formats for importing and exporting designs, making it compatible with other software applications.
The Native File Format: DWG
The native file format of AutoCAD is DWG (drawing). DWG files contain all the information about the design, including geometry, attributes, and metadata. This file format is widely supported by AutoCAD and is the preferred format for saving and sharing designs within the AutoCAD ecosystem.
OBJ File Format
OBJ (wavefront object) is an open standard file format used to store 3D geometry data along with material and texture information. OBJ files are versatile and widely supported by various 3D modeling software applications.
Importing OBJ Files into AutoCAD
Unfortunately, AutoCAD does not have native support for opening OBJ files directly. However, there are workarounds available that allow you to import OBJ files into AutoCAD.
Using Third-Party Plugins
An easy way to import OBJ files into AutoCAD is by using third-party plugins or add-ons. These plugins extend the functionality of AutoCAD and enable it to read additional file formats such as OBJ.
Some popular plugins include ‘OBJ Import for AutoCAD’ and ‘Autodesk FBX Converter. ‘
Note: Before using any third-party plugin, make sure to research and choose a reputable source. Also, follow the installation instructions provided by the plugin developer.
Converting OBJ to a Compatible Format
If you don’t want to rely on plugins or add-ons, another option is to convert the OBJ file into a format that AutoCAD can read. One common format that AutoCAD can import is FBX (Filmbox). You can use free online converters or dedicated software like ‘Autodesk FBX Converter’ to convert OBJ files to the FBX format before importing them into AutoCAD.
Conclusion
While AutoCAD does not have native support for opening OBJ files, there are ways to work around this limitation. By using third-party plugins or converting OBJ files to compatible formats like FBX, you can still incorporate OBJ files into your AutoCAD designs.
Note: Remember to exercise caution when using third-party plugins and always ensure the compatibility of converted files with your version of AutoCAD.