Ecdesign 3D model information
Below you will find a Q&A on how you can best prepare a 3D model before sending it to us for upload into Ecdesign.
We utilize 3D StudioMax, a leading software for 3D modeling, to create or modify models for compatibility with EcDesign. Our primary preference is to receive the files in .max format, specifically as 3dsMax scene files. It is essential that these models adhere strictly to our specified requirements, which are outlined further down on this page. Additionally, guidance on utilizing SolidWorks files (.step-214) is also available below.
For new manufacturers wishing to join the EcDesign platform, there is a one-time entry fee of 2,000 EUR. This fee covers the integration of a new manufacturer into our EcDesign database, including the inclusion of the manufacturer in the universal version of our software. Included in this entry fee is one complimentary Ecdesign license, valid for the first year.
Regarding model submissions, the baseline cost per model is set at 80 EUR. However, it is important to note that this pricing is contingent upon the model meeting all our listed file requirements. Models that exceed these standards and requirements may be eligible for adjusted pricing, reflecting the quality and compatibility of the submission. For detailed information on these requirements and how they influence pricing, please refer to the specified section below.
1. Technical requirement for (.max) file format:
File name: the max file must have a maximum of only 22 English letters (A to Z and _and 0 to 9), a unique name and related to the product. Note that the filename will be the object name in ECDESIGN.
Units: Use meter (in the System Units Setup change to Meters and in the Display Unit Scale klick on Generic Units).
Geometry: The current technical limit for each 3D model in ECDESIGN is maximum 150,000 polygons (triangles).
Rendering: Use "default scanline renderer" in the "Render setup" in 3Dstudiomax.
Cameras: In the scene you can use one camera but no extra lighting (just Default lighting).
Meshes: All model element names must be in English letters only (A to Z and _and 0 to 9). Be sure that the Normal direction are pointing outwards.
Material: Assign color material to all parts of the 3D model. All material used in the scene/model must appear in the Material Editor. Use Only standard materials (no Multi/Sub- Object material or other material like VRay). Use diffuse color with basic parameters and no reflection, bump, refraction or other mapping functions. If you use a bitmap (texture) in diffuse color map be sure that the Coordinates value is default (no rotation or tiles parameters). Ecdesign has its own material, ECD Material. And is using the diffuse color from the Max material. To have the correct ECD material, use the ECDMaterial Name in the list below.
The Ecdesign Material name must be entered in the Max Material name textbox, in the Material Editor (Compact) for every Material that is used on the model.
You can Use Number _01- and up, if you need to use the same ECDMaterial Name. If you don’t find the correct Material for your parts (elements) use _ECDRoughPlastic.
Mapping: All textures used on the model must be in JPG format or “PNG for transparency textures assigned only to diffuse color”, and all texture names must begin with your company name in one word and then underscore followed by texture name only English letters and ( A to Z and _ and 0 to 9. All the sides on the images / textures need to be in * 2 dimensions like 128, 256, 512, or a maximum 1024 pixels and have 72 pixels / inch in resolution)
2. Using SolidWorks models
3D models intended for use in Ecdesign should contain no more than 150,000 polygons, focusing solely on the model's exterior since the interior will not be visible. It's important to note that even small components, such as circuit boards, ball bearings, screws, and engines, can significantly increase the model's polygon count and should be omitted. We only accept files in the STEP AP214 format (*.step, *.stp) from SolidWorks. Submitting models in any other file format will result in the loss of color information (RGB).
To reduce the polygon count in your model, consider the following strategies:
To select parts based on their size, navigate through: Tools → Component Selection → Select by Size.
For advanced component selection, use: Advance Component Selection → In "Category 1," choose "Part volume – SW special" and set "Condition" to "<=" with a "Value" of 1.
You can also eliminate unnecessary components using the model's design tree in SolidWorks, which displays all the model's parts. Typically, you should name each object according to what it is. For instance, by typing "screw" in the search bar at the top, you can easily identify all parts named "screw." This allows you to swiftly remove any unnecessary components.
You can also use the defeature tool in SolidWorks to reduce the polygon count.
In the picture above you can see the difference when using the defeature tool.
Sample model where the defeature tool in SolidWorks was used to reduced the polygon count.
3. Ecdesign material names
To apply materials and/or colors to the model, you need to rename the components listed in the model design tree. For instance, for a part named Screw_M8_1_ECDChrome_1, select the appropriate RGB value. Ensure you use the same RGB value for all parts that should share the same color and material. This consistency simplifies the process for the Ecdesign team to simultaneously search for and select all parts, or to apply the correct material in Ecdesign. Below are the names of materials available in Ecdesign. Remember to save the file in the STEP AP214 format (*.step, *.stp) from SolidWorks to preserve the RGB color values.
Material Names:
_ECDRoughMetal_01
_ECDCoating_01, ECDCoating_grey, ECDCoating...
_ECDCarPaint_01
_ECDMetalPlate_01
_ECDChrome_01
_ECDPlastic_01
_ECDRoughPlastic_01
_ECDRubber_01
_ECDLeather_01
_ECDCloth_01
_ECDBrushedMetal_01
_ECDPolishedMetal_01
_ECDAluminium_01
_ECDWood_01
_ECDGlass_01
_ECDFrostedGlass_01
_ECDGlassNoReflection_01
Note: Only the material names listed above can be used.
File Naming: All file names, including images, materials, and/or mesh names, must only use English letters (A to Z, _, and 0 to 9).
Lighting: Use only standard lighting.