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THE EXPANDED GUIDE TO

Gathering 3D CAD to Kickoff Your Project

 

 

 

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The Expanded Guide to Gathering 3D CAD Files

Creating a dynamic and visually engaging online shopping experience requires precise tools, and 3D CAD files play a foundational role in this process. For companies implementing Dopple's 3D Product Configurator or Visualizer, gathering the appropriate CAD files is a critical first step.

This guide provides a comprehensive approach to:

  • Collaborating with internal teams to select the most suitable CAD files for your project.
  • Detailing the technical process for gathering these files from your CAD systems.

By following the steps outlined, you enable Dopple’s 3D Team to review and optimize your CAD files for seamless integration, enhancing your eCommerce platform with cutting-edge 3D and augmented reality (AR) capabilities.

WHY 3D CAD MATTERS

The transition to 3D commerce is reshaping how customers interact with products online. Dopple specializes in converting CAD assemblies into web-ready, runtime-optimized 3D models. These models form the backbone of interactive product configurators, enabling customers to visualize and customize products in real time.

Benefits of Leveraging CAD Files with Dopple

1. Enhanced Customer Engagement
Customers spend more time on your site exploring variations and all possible SKUs with 3D views and AR tools, which leads to higher conversion rates.
2. Reduced Product Returns
Accurate visualizations ensure customers better understand product dimensions and features, reducing mismatched expectations.
3. Competitive Differentiation
With immersive experiences powered by Dopple, your company can stand out in crowded markets.

 

Collaborating Between Marketing and Engineering

IDENTIFYING KEY STAKEHOLDERS

To gather the necessary CAD assets, marketing teams must collaborate with engineering departments. The following roles typically manage or have access to the required files:

  • VP/Director/Manager of Design Engineering
  • VP/Director/Manager of Product Development
  • VP/Director/Manager of Project Engineering
  • Senior Project Engineer or Systems Engineer

BUILDING A BRIDGE BETWEEN TEAMS

While marketing teams often focus on customer-facing activities, engineering teams prioritize product functionality and design. Providing context for why these files are needed ensures alignment.

Use the template below to initiate communication with your engineering team:

CAD Email Template

This email helps frame the collaboration as an exciting opportunity to elevate the company’s digital presence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Gathering CAD Files

Step 1: Identify the Right Product(s)

Begin by selecting a product that aligns with your eCommerce goals. Consider the following:

  • Customer Demand: Which product generates the most online interest?
  • Customization Potential: Does the product have configurable options that would benefit from a 3D configurator?
  • Complexity: Start with a moderately complex product to streamline the initial implementation.

 

STEP 2: LOCATE THE DIGITAL TOP-LEVEL ASSEMBLY

Begin by selecting a product that aligns with your eCommerce goals. Consider the following:

The top-level assembly includes all the major components of the product. Ensure this assembly captures the product’s essence while excluding unnecessary details to optimize performance. In many cases the CAD assets only come together in a physical format at the floor level. For Dopple projects we must get engineering alignment that we are looking for the digital top-level assembly for the purposes of putting the product together in 3D digital form. 

 

What it is?

  • Digital Model: A virtual representation of the final product, typically created using CAD software. 
  • Top-Level: The highest level of assembly, meaning it includes all other sub-assemblies and components that make up the final product. 
  • Components: Individual parts, sub-assemblies, and other elements that are included in the digital model. 
  • Assembly: The process of combining different components and sub-assemblies into the final product. 

 

STEP 3: COLLABORATE WITH ENGINEERING ON BOMS

If a Bill of Materials (BOM) is available, request it from engineering. Preferred formats include .xls or .csv. BOMs help Dopple understand the product’s structure, identifying which components to include in the 3D model.

Technical Guidance for Engineering Teams

Exporting CAD Files from Popular Systems

From SolidWorks

  1. Open the top-level assembly in SolidWorks.

  2. Select File > Pack & Go.

  3. Verify all files are selected; grayed-out files indicate missing components.

  4. Check Include Toolbox Components.

  5. Save the files to a designated folder.


 

From Creo/ProE

  1. Open the top-level assembly.
  2. Select File > Save As > Save a Backup.
  3. Choose a folder and save.

 

From Autodesk Inventor

  1. Open the assembly in Autodesk Inventor.
  2. Select File > Save As > Pack & Go.
  3. Uncheck Skip Libraries to ensure all necessary components are included.
  4. Save the files.

 

Exporting to Lightweight Formats

For CAD engineers working in systems without native Pack & Go functionality:

  1. Export the top-level assembly in a lightweight format such as STEP (.step/.stp) or IGES (.igs).
  2. Compress the exported files into a .zip folder for easy delivery.

 

DOPPLE'S CAD SOURCE PARTNERS

DOPPLE'S PREFERRED FILE FORMATS

Dopple works with various file formats but has specific preferences for efficient processing:

Preferred File Formats

Optimizing CAD Files for Web Use

CAD files often include unnecessary details that can slow down loading times or overwhelm online configurators. To address this:

  • Simplify Assemblies: Remove internal components that are not visible or necessary for visualization.
  • Reduce File Size: Compress files and remove excess metadata to enhance performance.

Dopple’s Review Process

Once files are submitted, Dopple’s team will:

  • Analyze the structure of the CAD files to ensure compatibility.
  • Optimize the files for web rendering using advanced compression techniques.
  • Provide feedback on any additional adjustments needed for a successful implementation.
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Practical Tips for Success

  1. Start Small: Begin with one product to refine the process before scaling.

  2. Communicate Clearly: Ensure all stakeholders understand the project goals and requirements.

  3. Leverage Dopple’s Expertise: Engage with Dopple SMEs early to address any technical challenges.

 

Helpful Content:

FAQ Preparing and Delivering 3D CAD Files for Dopple

Common Challenges in Gathering 3D CAD Files and Implementing Dopple Projects

 

So What's Next?