Convert NWF to OBJ

Understanding nwf and obj file formats

NWF files are Navisworks File Sets used by Autodesk Navisworks, a project review software for architecture, engineering, and construction. NWF files reference multiple design files and store project review data, but do not contain actual 3D geometry.

OBJ files are a widely-used 3D geometry format developed by Wavefront Technologies. They store 3D models, including vertices, textures, and normals, and are compatible with many 3D modeling and rendering applications.

Can you convert nwf to obj?

Direct conversion from NWF to OBJ is not possible because NWF files do not contain 3D geometry; they only reference external model files (such as DWG, RVT, or IFC). To obtain an OBJ file, you must first open the referenced models in Navisworks and then export the combined geometry.

How to export obj from Navisworks

Navisworks does not natively support exporting to OBJ. However, you can export to FBX and then convert FBX to OBJ using third-party software. Here’s how:

1. Open your NWF file in Autodesk Navisworks Manage or Simulate.
2. Go to File → Export → 3D Model.
3. Select FBX as the export format and save the file.
4. Use a converter like Autodesk FBX Converter or Blender to open the FBX file.
5. In Blender, import the FBX file (File → Import → FBX), then export as OBJ (File → Export → Wavefront (.obj)).

Recommended software for nwf to obj conversion

• Autodesk Navisworks (for exporting FBX from NWF)
• Blender (free, for converting FBX to OBJ)
• Autodesk FBX Converter (for simple FBX to OBJ conversion)

Summary

While you cannot directly convert NWF to OBJ, you can export the referenced models from Navisworks as FBX and then convert to OBJ using Blender or Autodesk FBX Converter. This workflow ensures you retain the 3D geometry and can use your models in a wide range of 3D applications.