3DS Import for SolidWorks

The 3DS Import for SolidWorks is a plugin that allows for the import of geometric data from 3DS files into SolidWorks. The plugin reads polygon mesh data stored in 3DS files and then creates trimmed planar surfaces for each triangle. These surfaces are then put together to make a body. Should the polygon mesh be closed, the plugin creates a closed body feature, otherwise an open surface is created.

This plugin is very user-friendly, as it introduces new commands to SolidWorks and adds a submenu to the menu called "3DSImport" with several useful commands including "Import," "Help," "Register," and "About". The 3DS Import for SolidWorks comes with extensive documentation and tutorials for each command to assist in a quick and easy start.

The 3DS file format is the native file format of 3D Studio, which has now been replaced by 3ds Max. However, 3ds Max may still read and write .3ds files. 3ds Max is a widespread off-the-shelf 3D animation program best known for strong modeling capabilities, a flexible plugin architecture, and a long history on the Microsoft Windows platform. The software is used largely by video game developers, TV commercial studios, architectural visualization studios, and more, as it is utilized for movie effects and precursory visualization.