My iPad Doesn't Load a 3-D Model
Your iPad needs the appropriate software to load 3-D models, as its native software does not support any 3-D modeling file types. You can either locate an iPad app that is compatible with your model's file type for mobile viewing and editing, or you can export your 3-D model into a common image format for viewing on the iPad. The latter solution does not allow you to edit the image.
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3-D Modeling Apps
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The App Store for iPad contains a variety of CAD apps, some of which support 3-D models. To find an app that works with your 3-D drawing, use the iPad's App Store search box to search for the specific modeling program you used to create the drawing. For example, if you used AudoCAD, enter "AutoCAD" in the search box and you will find Autodesk's free "AutoCAD WS" app. If you cannot find an app made by the same company, search the model's file extension, such as DWG, DXF or 3DS. Read each applicable app's specifications to find out if it will support the file you want to load as well as any limitations on file size and which editing features are available.
File Size
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If you have the appropriate app for a 3-D file type but your model still won't load, the file may be too large for the iPad, or for the specific app you are using. Tap the "Settings" app and choose "General" and "About" to view your iPad's available storage space. If you have ample space, look for your 3-D app in the lower part of the left pane in the "Settings" app. If it is there, tap it and explore the on-screen options to see if you can change its cache size. Also check for cache size settings directly within the 3-D app. These are often accessed through a gear or wrench icon.
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Image Export
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If you just want to share your drawing on your iPad but don't need to edit it or use any advanced features of the 3-D modeling software, an image file takes up less room on your iPad and doesn't require any new apps. Use the software that created the drawing to export it into a common image format, such as a JPEG or TIFF. Send these to your iPad's "Photos" app for easy viewing. If your drafting program does not export into one of these formats, you can also export to PDF. The iPad supports PDF files in its preview mode, so you can view the file as you would an image by emailing the file to yourself and selecting the attachment. You can also use third-party PDF editors to annotate your 3-D model in PDF format.
Advanced Troubleshooting
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If you have the appropriate app and file size and your 3-D model still does not open on your iPad, try uninstalling the app you are using to open it. Back up any data in the app first by storing it somewhere other than within the app. Reboot your iPad and then reinstall the app and try importing and loading your image again. If that does not work, contact the developer who created that app for further support. Developer contact links are available on the app pages within the App Store.
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References
- Photo Credit Ryan Pierse/Getty Images News/Getty Images
