Uploading 3D models

Once you have started creating a new 3D Models True Space experience, you will need to upload .fbx model files through the 3D Models component in the left side panel. If that component is not open already, click on it once.

Before you upload a 3D model, you need to make sure the model conforms to the requirements specified in the section Exporting 3D Models.

A new 3D Models experience will include a slot or "card" for your first model. The card has three tabs: 3D Model, Details, and Link. Make sure 3D Model is open. 

Upload an .fbx model file from your hard drive. The 3D Model component provides two ways to do this.

1. Move your mouse over the image area, and when the prompt appears click on the upload icon to open your computer’s file system. Browse to the .fbx  file you want and then click Open.
   
2. Open your computer’s file system and find the .fbx file you want to upload. The drag that file from the system browser to the image area in the 3D Model component to begin the upload process.

A dialog will appear asking if this is a static model or an animated model. (AR Designer doesn’t yet know how to figure this out automatically.) Select either Static or Animated, and the select Next.

The model file will upload, and then it will begin a process of being converted into a format for use in our augmented reality engine. You can watch as the model passes various inspections. Once processed, you will be shown an upload summary that will tell you how successfully your model was uploaded.

1. If everything is A-OK, you will be shown a green check mark.
2. If there were problems, but the model is still usable, you will be shown a yellow check mark and a list of issues that you might want to fix.
3. If the model was unable to be uploaded or processed, you will see a red check mark.

Upon a successful upload, the model will appear in the 3D workspace. You will also see the name of the file you added at the top of the 3D model panel.

If your model appears too big or too small in the 3D workspace, or if it is facing the wrong direction, or if it is sitting wrong or intersecting the trigger image, you will (for now) need to make appropriate changes in the modeling program you used. See Exporting 3D Models: Recommendations for details.

Using the Asset Manager

If you have previously uploaded a 3D model to another experience or to the Asset Manager, you may choose instead to add that model from the Asset Manager.

1. Click on Import from Asset Manager.
   
   
2. A window appears listing all the models currently in the Asset Manager. Select the one you want, then click + Add To Experience at the bottom of the window. (You could also Drag the 3D model icon onto the 3D Model panel.)
   

Unlike uploading a 3D model, adding a model in this way does not require uploading data from your hard drive or processing its format. It’s much faster!

For additional information about 3D models and AR Designer, see 3D Model section in the FAQ.