Import a model from 3ds Max

1. Ensure the model meets the criteria described in Prepare a model for sculpting. For example, to view the UV texture coordinates for a model in 3ds Max select Modifiers > UV Texture Coordinates > Unwrap UVW. The Unwrap UVW modifier has many tools for correcting UV texture coordinate issues on the model.
   Note: Modifying the layout and distribution of the UVs on a mesh does not affect the layout and distribution of the faces on the 3D polygonal mesh, but it does impact any painting and texture mapping you might want to perform. For more information, see UVs overview or consult the topic Sending Files to and from Mudbox in the 3ds Max documentation.
2. In 3ds Max File menu, select Send to Mudbox in the Send To > Send To submenu.

   The Send To commands establish a connection between 3ds Max and Mudbox. While the connection is established, the applications share data. To break the connection, simply close the scene or exit one of the applications.

   Important:

   You must have installed an equivalent version of the other application to see the Send To command options available in the File menu. For example, no Send to Mudbox option is available if you are running 3ds Max 2018 and Mudbox 2019. (If this is the case, use the instructions in Import a model from a different version 3ds Max, below.)

Import a model from a different version 3ds Max

It is recommended to share data between 3ds Max and Mudbox using the Send to Mudbox feature in the 3ds Max File menu. However, if you are attempting to share data between differing versions of the software, for example, 3ds Max 2018 and Mudbox 2019, the Send to Mudbox feature is greyed out. Instead try:

• FBX: The Autodesk FBX® file format can be used to export data from 3ds Max to Mudbox. For more information, see Import using FBX.
• Select File > Export and set Save As Type to OBJ.

In Mudbox, depending on your requirements, select File > Open or File > Import, and select the model you exported from 3ds Max. You can set options for import in the Preferences > File Preferences section. For more information on import options, see Open a model or Import a model.

Related topics

Compatibility across products using FBX

Model file formats

Import a model from Maya