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How to embed navigable 3D models in PDF documents

by GregKmethy, MartonKiss, updated 2012-08-30

See also: 3D Content in PDF (WIN only) in ArchiCAD Help

U3D ( Universal 3D) is a file format for 3D data. It is a standardized three-dimensional data
format with the purpose of facilitating 3D data exchange among programs of various kinds. Adobe
Acrobat supports this format from version 7.0, so within a PDF documents 3D models can be
represented, not only as static images but as real 3D objects. You can navigate through the
model, set view options and save preset views.

To create such document with ArchiCAD and Adobe Acrobat:

Open your project in ArchiCAD and go to a 3D view, in save as dialog you have the option
to save a .U3D file
In an U3D compatible PDF editor - like Adobe Acrobat 7.0+ you have the possibility to
add U3D files as objects. For example in Acrobat 7.0:
Open the PDF you would enhance with a 3D model
Choose Tools/Advanced Editing/3D Tool
Define the place of the 3D object on the paper
Choose the .U3D file in the upcoming dialog and follow the instructions
Click OK to place the model
You can create here preset views for each placed U3D views - or later by opening
the PDF
After you saved the .PDF you can check the result in any U3D compatible PDF
readers - like in Adobe Reader (note that Preview on Mac does not support U3D,
but Adobe Reader also exists on Mac as a free product)
Click on the model to activate the 3D navigation

To create such document within ArchiCAD:

Open your project in ArchiCAD and go to the 3D window.

Save a View in the View Map.
In the save as dialog, set the file format to a .U3D file and export the view.
Go to the Layout.
Place the View from the View Map onto a Layout.
Add this Layout to a Publisher set and set the file format to PDF.
Go to Document Options, and click PDF Options.
Check Embed 3D Content.
Browse for the exported .U3D file.
Select the View in the drop down list.
Publish the PDF

Here you can see a simple example how it works with a simple model (only works by using a
browser with Adobe Reader Plugin):

http://www.archicadwiki.com/U3D 1/3