Tools to share your 3D model

Working with multiple parties is often the case in shipbuilding. Sharing your 3D model in the right way, will save you a big amount of time, and miscommunications. In this article, a variety of the options to share your 3D model is described with their pro's and cons. Check out which one is best for your case!

Autodesk online viewer

If you need a free and easy way to share basic designs with anyone, the Autodesk Online Viewer is a good choice. The Autodesk Online Viewer is a web-based tool that allows anyone with an internet connection to view and interact with your 2D and 3D design files. No software installation is required – simply upload your file and share the link.  

Pros:

• Free and easy to use: No cost involved and accessible from any device with a web browser.  
• Wide file compatibility: Supports a vast range of file formats commonly used in shipbuilding like AutoCAD (.dwg), STEP (.stp), IGES (.igs), JT (.jt).
• Basic collaboration: Allows basic markups and annotations for providing feedback. Primarily for viewing and basic interaction. 
• Sharing flexibility: Share your designs through secure links, making them easily accessible to reviewers.

Cons:

• Product data is not included: See the WSA or the Model Exchanger below if you want to have the product data included, while sharing your model.

MasterShip Workshop Assistant (WSA)

The MasterShip Workshop Assistant (WSA) is a software tool designed to streamline communication and improve efficiency on the shopfloor and design office. It provides direct access to 3D models on the shop floor, eliminating the need for paper-based drawings. Having a 3D model in the workshop that is always up-to-date prevents mistakes and enhances an efficient workflow.

The WSA is typically installed on workstations or mobile devices, allowing workers to access and review 3D models from anywhere on the shop floor. Not only can it be used in the Workshop. This tool can also be used in the design office for reviewing and improving communication.

Pros:

• Production data included: The tool integrates MasterShip production information for comprehensive model review and analysis.
• Real-time updating of 3D models: Provides up-to-date and accurate information directly to the shop floor, minimizing errors and rework.
• Improved productivity: Streamlines processes, reduces the time spent searching for information.
• Device Flexibility: Supports various devices, including iPads, making it convenient for on-site inspections and remote collaboration.

Cons:

• There are costs involved for obtaining a license. Contact us for an inquiry!
• Software Compatibility: Ensuring compatibility with other software tools and systems can be challenging, especially in complex shipbuilding environments.

MasterShip Model Exchanger

The Master Ship Model Exchanger is established to improve the communication between the different stakeholders in ship design. This product enables you to convert your 3D assembly model to any other file format, while preserving the associated product data to each entity! This ensures that the recipient of the model has access to all the necessary information to understand and utilize the design effectively. This tool is typically used to include your 3D model into another parties 3D model.

Pros: 

• Preserves product data: Maintains essential metadata during conversion, ensuring that the meaning and intent behind the 3D model are retained.
• Wide file format support: Offers flexibility by converting to almost any file formats, accommodating different software and systems
• Improved communication and collaboration: Facilitates clear and efficient communication by providing context-rich 3D models.

Cons: 

• There are costs involved for obtaining a license. Contact us for an inquiry!

Other MasterShip functionalities

Use the command SHIPBINDSOLIDS to export the 3D model in solid only, or use the functionality of making arrangement drawings to export only a part of the 3D model.

Navisworks freedom

Navisworks Freedom is a free viewer specifically designed for navigating and reviewing 3D models in the construction industry. It works best with Navisworks project files (.nwd). While not a full-fledged design tool, it offers several functionalities for model review and viewing.

Pros:

• Optimized for large 3D models: Built for efficient handling of large and complex 3D models common in construction projects.
• Extension for the WSA: Navisworks freedom is great to use as a free extension of the WSA, for example for viewing your 3D model in the workshop or with other draftsmen.
• Review features: Provides tools for taking measurements, adding markups, and creating basic animations for improved communication.
• Free for (re)viewers: No cost involved for those who only need to view and provide feedback on the model.

Cons:

• Limited functionality: Focuses on viewing and review, lacking editing or advanced analysis capabilities (like a clash detective). 
• File format dependence: While it can be used with file formats like STEP (.stp), IGES (.igs), JT (.jt) and DWG (.dwg), it works best when converted to the .nwd file format.