Introduction to Navisworks Data Formats
1. NWD — This is the core Navisworks format. You can save it directly by opening an NWC file and choosing to save as NWD, or by publishing to NWD format through the output palette. This format offers practical features such as high compression, password protection, and the ability to set file expiration dates. When combining multiple discipline-specific files into one model, NWD allows publishing a complete package that includes all models, data, views, and review tags. It is the preferred format for sharing comprehensive models with others and is commonly used for model delivery. Additionally, NWD files can be viewed using Autodesk Navisworks Freedom, a free viewer.
2. NWF — This format serves as a management file for coordinating multiple linked discipline files. Unlike NWD, the NWF file itself does not store any model data. Instead, it contains links between several professional files along with scene settings, tags, annotations, and other associated information. Because it does not hold any actual model data, the NWF file size is very small.
In summary, the relationship between these formats is as follows:
Navisworks also supports exporting various data formats to facilitate data exchange and information sharing:
Ø DWF/DWFx Format
Navisworks can export 3D models as DWF or DWFx files, compatible with Autodesk Design Review software for electronic markup and review.
Ø Google Earth KML Format
You can export models as compressed KML files with a .kmz extension, enabling easy publishing of models to Google Earth.
Ø FBX Format
This widely used format in the Autodesk film and entertainment industries allows seamless transfer of models, materials, animations, and camera data between software like 3ds Max, Maya, and Softimage, providing an excellent solution for interoperability.
Ø XML Search Set
This format supports complex search conditions related to a given project, including logical statements and evaluations. It is commonly used within Navisworks for advanced querying.
Ø XML Viewpoint File
Viewpoint files contain all associated data such as camera position, sectioning, hidden items, material substitutions, redline annotations, tags, and collision check settings.
Ø XML Collision Report File
This file stores collision detection rules, functioning similarly to a collision set rule configuration.
Ø XML Workspace
This format saves the layout and user preferences for the tool panels, customized to individual workflows.
Ø NWP Material Palette File
Used to transfer material settings between multiple Navisworks projects, this file acts like a shared material library.
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