STEP → USD · Online Conversion Guide
Introduce modern scene description and layering to engineering models Integrate with DCC/film assets more easily Support incremental export to multiple formats later
STEP: STEP (ISO 10303) is a widely used neutral CAD/PLM exchange standard for accurate transfer of product structures and precise geometry across different CAD systems.
USD as the target format: USD (Universal Scene Description) by Pixar supports complex scene layering, references and collaboration; a modern core for DCC/asset pipelines.
Practical tips: Simplify assembly hierarchy initially to reduce complexity; Bind materials later in the USD stage when convenient.
Typical scenarios: Cross‑software collaboration, BOM reviews, structural archiving.
Why convert STEP → USD
- Introduce modern scene description and layering to engineering models
- Integrate with DCC/film assets more easily
- Support incremental export to multiple formats later
Quick steps
- Upload STEP on the homepage
- Choose USD as the output and convert
- For very large models, run 3D Tiles tiling
- Open the 3D viewer for interactive preview/sharing
Inline conversion (no redirect)
More common conversions
FAQ
Q: What information may be lost from STEP to USD?
Parametric features/constraints/history become polygon meshes; verify materials and textures.
Q: How to reduce size for STEP → USD?
Remove hidden parts, lower tessellation where acceptable, compress textures, enable Draco, merge materials.
Q: Batch or very large models supported?
Use 3D Tiles tiling for massive assemblies; consider splitting by hierarchy/area.
Q: Can I further edit after converting?
After converting to USD, geometry is mesh-based; you can clean meshes and tweak materials, but parametrics are not preserved.