.3DM File Extension

Rhino 3D Model

Developer	Robert McNeel & Associates
Popularity	Average rating 3.7 / 5. Vote count: 100
Category	3D Image Files
Format	.3DM
Cross Platform	Update Soon

What is an 3DM file?

The .3DM file extension represents a 3D model file used by Rhinoceros (commonly known as Rhino), a popular 3D modeling software developed by Robert McNeel & Associates. Rhino is widely used for its precision and versatility in creating complex 3D models for various applications, including architecture, industrial design, jewelry design, and more.

More Information.

Rhino was first introduced in 1998, and the .3DM file format was designed to store complex 3D models created within the Rhino environment. The primary purpose of the .3DM format is to facilitate the saving and sharing of detailed 3D models, including geometry, textures, and other relevant data.

Origin Of This File.

The .3DM format originated with the release of Rhino software. Rhino’s development aimed to provide a flexible and powerful tool for 3D modeling, supporting a wide range of file formats and capabilities.

File Structure Technical Specification.

File Extension: .3DM
Format Type: Binary file format
File Content: Contains 3D geometry data, textures, materials, lighting, and other scene elements. The format is used to store information about the 3D model’s structure, including curves, surfaces, solids, and other modeling data.
Version Compatibility: Rhino periodically updates the .3DM format to include new features and improvements, but it maintains backward compatibility with earlier versions.

How to Convert the File?

Windows

Using Rhino:
- Open Rhino and load your .3DM file.
- Go to File > Export Selected or Export (depending on whether you want to export the entire model or a selection).
- Choose the desired file format from the list of supported formats (e.g., .OBJ, .STL, .DWG, etc.).
- Save the file with the new format extension.
Using Third-Party Software:
- Blender: Install the Rhino3D import plugin or use a direct .3DM importer if available.
  - Open Blender, and go to File > Import and select the .3DM format if supported, then export to the desired format.
- Online Converters: Use online tools like Zamzar to upload and convert .3DM files to other formats.

Linux

Using Blender:
- Install Blender and any required plugins to import .3DM files.
- Open Blender, go to File > Import, and select the .3DM format if available.
- Export the model to the desired format using File > Export.
Using FreeCAD:
- Install FreeCAD and any necessary plugins.
- Open FreeCAD, go to File > Open, and load the .3DM file.
- Export to a different format using File > Export.

MAC

Using Rhino for Mac:
- Open Rhino for Mac and load the .3DM file.
- Go to File > Export Selected or Export, and choose the format you wish to convert to.
- Save the file with the new extension.
Using Blender:
- Install Blender and any necessary plugins to import .3DM files.
- Open Blender, go to File > Import, and select the .3DM format if available.
- Export the model to another format.
Using Online Converters:
- Use online tools like Convertio to upload and convert .3DM files.

Android

Using 3D Model Viewer Apps:
- Some 3D model viewer apps on Android may support .3DM files or offer conversion options.
- Install a 3D model viewer app that supports .3DM and check if it has an export or conversion feature.
Online Converters:
- Use online converters via your browser to upload .3DM files and convert them to other formats. For example, Zamzar or Convertio.

iOS

Using 3D Model Viewer Apps:
- Similar to Android, some iOS apps may support .3DM files or provide conversion options.
- Install a suitable app and check for conversion features.
Online Converters:
- Use online converters through your browser to convert .3DM files. Websites like Zamzar or Convertio can be used.

Others

Web-based Converters:
- Use online conversion tools that support .3DM files. Upload the file to services like Zamzar, Convertio, or AnyConv and select the desired output format.
Dedicated Software:
- AutoCAD: Use AutoCAD with the Rhino plugin or converter for importing and exporting .3DM files.
- Fusion 360: Import .3DM files directly or use converters to get the file into a compatible format.

Advantages And Disadvantages.

Advantages:

Rich Data Storage: Can store detailed 3D model information, including complex geometry, textures, and materials.
Versatile: Supports a wide range of modeling techniques and can be used in various industries.
Interoperability: Rhino supports importing and exporting various file formats, making it easier to work with different tools.

Disadvantages:

File Size: Can become large, particularly with complex models or extensive texture data.
Software Dependency: To fully utilize .3DM files, Rhino or compatible software is required. Limited support in some other 3D software might lead to compatibility issues.

How to Open 3DM?

Open In Windows

Rhino: Rhino 7 and earlier versions can open .3DM files.
Blender: With the appropriate import plugin.
AutoCAD: With a plugin or conversion to a compatible format.

Open In Linux

Blender: With the appropriate import plugin.
FreeCAD: Supports .3DM files via specific plugins or converters.

Open In MAC

Rhino for Mac: Directly open .3DM files.
Blender: With the appropriate import plugin.
Fusion 360: Can import .3DM files through conversion.

Open In Android

3D Model Viewers: Some 3D model viewer apps support .3DM files, though compatibility may vary.

Open In IOS

3D Model Viewers: Similar to Android, certain apps on iOS may support .3DM files.

Open in Others

Web-based Viewers: Some online tools may offer the ability to view .3DM files or convert them to other formats.
Dedicated 3D Software: Many professional 3D software applications, including CAD and modeling tools, can work with .3DM files through direct support or plugins.