Convert LWS to LWO

Understanding lws and lwo file formats

LWS (LightWave Scene) files are scene description files used by LightWave 3D, a popular 3D modeling and animation software. These files store information about the arrangement of objects, lights, cameras, and animation data within a scene, but do not contain the actual 3D geometry.

LWO (LightWave Object) files, on the other hand, are used to store the actual 3D models or objects, including their geometry, textures, and surface properties. LWO files are essential for rendering and manipulating 3D objects within LightWave 3D or compatible software.

Why convert lws to lwo?

Converting an LWS file to LWO is not a typical file conversion, as LWS files reference LWO files rather than containing 3D geometry themselves. However, users may wish to extract or export all objects referenced in a scene (LWS) as individual LWO files for use in other projects or applications.

How to convert lws to lwo

Since LWS files do not contain geometry, the process involves opening the scene in LightWave 3D and exporting the objects:

1. Open LightWave 3D Layout.
2. Go to File → Load → Load Scene and select your .lws file.
3. Once the scene is loaded, select the object you wish to export.
4. Go to File → Save → Save Object As to export the selected object as a .lwo file.
5. Repeat for each object in the scene as needed.

There is no direct batch conversion from LWS to LWO, as the process requires manual extraction of objects from the scene file.

Best software for lws to lwo conversion

The recommended software for this process is LightWave 3D itself, as it natively supports both LWS and LWO formats. Other 3D applications may not fully support the scene structure or object properties found in LightWave files.

Summary

To convert LWS to LWO, use LightWave 3D to open the scene and export each object individually. This ensures all geometry and properties are preserved in the resulting LWO files.