Export to FBX

Save a 3D model view in FBX format for import to 3ds Max.

  1. In Revit, open a 3D view, and prepare it for export.

    See Before Exporting a 3D View to 3ds Max.

  2. Click File tab Export (FBX).
    Tip: If FBX displays as gray, open a 3D view of the project, and then try again.
  3. In the Export 3ds Max (FBX) dialog, for Save in, navigate to the target folder for the exported file.
  4. For Files of type, select one of the following formats:
    • FBX 2015 and Previous (*.fbx) - compatible format for import in 2015 and previous version products.
    • FBX Files (*.fbx) - compatible format for import in 2016 and later version products. This format will not import in older products (2015 and previous versions).
  5. For Naming, do one of the following:
    • To specify a file name manually, select Manual (Specify file name). For File name/prefix, specify the name of the output file.
    • To use an automatically generated file name, select Automatic – Long (Specify prefix), or Automatic – Short.
  6. For Use LOD, do one of the following:
    • Select this option to generate a more faceted model with a smaller file size.
    • Clear this option to generate a model that is smoother and more true to the actual geometry with a larger file size.
    • LOD means level of detail. It does not refer to a view's detail as defined in Revit. Instead, it refers to showing only what is essential at a certain zoom level or detail level. Revit shows geometry in a faceted manner when zoomed out, and smoother when zoomed in.

  7. For Without boundary edge, do one of the following:
    • Select this option to hide the lines wherever two surfaces come together. This option results in a less mesh-like model when opened in 3ds Max. As a result, the model has a less constructed look and appears more natural and realistic.
    • Clear this option to show boundary edges between surfaces.
  8. Click Save.

Revit generates the FBX file and places it in the target location.

You can now import the FBX file into 3ds Max, using the 3ds Max FBX add-in. For more information, refer to the 3ds Max Add-in documentation.

3ds Max provides additional control over materials, beyond the capabilities of Revit. To activate the Revit material assignments and lights in 3ds Max, specify mental ray® as the rendering engine. This is the default render setting for 3ds Max Design. For more information, refer to the 3ds Max documentation.