You can export your PCB as a 3D model to a Collada format file.
Collada files can be imported by Autodesk 3D Studio MAX, Blender and Sketchup.
Collada (COLLAborative Design Activity) is an open standard XML-based file format designed for exchanging digital assets between different 3D modeling and computer graphics software applications. COLLADA files (.dae) are used to represent 3D models, scenes, animations, textures, and other related information. The format is widely used for sharing 3D content across various applications and platforms.
Key features of Collada 3D files include:
Open Standard: COLLADA is an open and vendor-neutral standard developed by the Khronos Group, which promotes open standards in the graphics industry.
XML-Based: COLLADA files are based on XML (eXtensible Markup Language), making them human-readable and easy to parse by software applications.
Content Hierarchy: COLLADA supports a hierarchical structure for scenes, objects, transformations, cameras, lights, materials, animations, and more.
Geometry: COLLADA files can store 3D geometry, including vertices, normals, texture coordinates, and more.
Materials and Textures: The format supports material definitions, textures, shaders, and other rendering properties.
Animations: COLLADA supports skeletal animations, skinning, morph targets, and other animation techniques.
Physics: The format can include physics-related information, such as rigid body dynamics, constraints, and collisions.
Platform and Application Agnostic: COLLADA is designed to work across different 3D applications and platforms, allowing for easier collaboration and interoperability.
Extensions: Extensions can be added to the format to accommodate specific features or optimizations required by certain applications.
Library and Tools: COLLADA files can be generated, imported, and exported using various 3D modeling software and libraries.
The COLLADA format is particularly useful for content creators who work with multiple software applications and platforms. It allows users to create content in one application and then export it to be used in another without losing critical information. COLLADA has gained popularity in the gaming industry, virtual reality, computer-aided design (CAD), and other fields where 3D content needs to be shared across different tools and pipelines.
It's important to note that while COLLADA is a versatile format, compatibility and feature support can vary between different software applications and versions. When working with COLLADA files, ensure that your tools support the features you need and that you're aware of any potential issues with data loss or format inconsistencies when transferring content between applications.