How to Convert COB to 3MF❓
With our tools, changing COB to 3MF is a breeze - follow these simple 3 steps:
📥 Install Autoconverter
Download and install Autoconverter on your system. Launch the software to convert COB files to 3MF format.
📂 Import COB File
Click Open... to load your COB (.cob, .scn) file, or drag and drop it into the application window.
💾 Export to 3MF Format
Use Save As... to export your file to the 3MF mesh file format (*.3mf).
Still frustrated with COB to 3MF conversion? These step-by-step guides simplify COB files conversion:
- 🔍 3MF vs STL: Which 3D Printing File Format Is Better?
- ⚙️ Convert 3D Mesh Models with Autoconverter: STL, OBJ, STEP
- 📂 Batch Convert 3D Files with Autoconverter (STEP, STL, OBJ)
Caligari TrueSpace COB File Format
The COB file format was developed by Caligari Corporation for its 3D modeling and animation software, TrueSpace. COB files store complete 3D scene data including geometry, materials, textures, lights, and animation. Though TrueSpace is now discontinued, COB remains an essential format for preserving and converting legacy 3D content.
Key Features of COB Files
- Full 3D Scene Storage: COB files encapsulate entire scenes with objects, lighting, cameras, and animation data.
- Two Format Variants:
- ASCII COB: Human-readable format ideal for manual inspection and debugging.
- Binary COB: Compact format optimized for performance and faster loading times.
- Material & Texture Support: Includes surface colors, image textures, and basic shading information.
- Geometry Types: Supports both NURBS-based and polygon mesh 3D models for greater flexibility.
COB File Conversion Tools
Use Autoconverter and Automesher Application to import and convert COB files into modern 3D formats such as FBX, OBJ, SKP, STEP, and SAT. Our converters retain crucial data including UV mapping, materials, and mesh topology by utilizing the Open Asset Import Library (Assimp) for accurate and reliable file processing.
Note: COB files can only be imported - exporting to COB format is not supported.
3MF (3D Manufacturing Format) File
The 3MF (3D Manufacturing Format) is an open-source XML-based file format developed by the 3MF Consortium - an industry group composed of leading companies in the 3D printing sector. 3MF was specifically designed to address the limitations of older formats like STL, offering a richer, more extensible framework for modern additive manufacturing workflows. With 3MF, you can store not just the model geometry, but also color, textures, material properties, and metadata within a single compressed file.
Key Advantages of 3MF Over STL
Unlike traditional STL files that store only basic 3D geometry, the 3MF format provides a wide range of enhanced capabilities:
- Color Support: Enables full-color 3D printing by defining colors per triangle or per object, enhancing model realism.
- Texture Mapping: Associates 2D image textures with 3D surfaces, producing highly detailed and visually realistic prints.
- Embedded Metadata: Includes detailed information such as author, copyright, licensing, description, and more - improving project management and file documentation.
- ZIP Compression: Uses ZIP-based packaging to efficiently compress and bundle model data, reducing file size while maintaining structure and content.
3MF File Conversion and Workflow
Our Autoconverter and Automesher Application offer full support for importing, exporting, and converting 3MF files. Powered by the official lib3mf library, our software ensures high compatibility and reliable file processing across various 3D printing and CAD workflows.
Note: A current limitation of the 3MF format is its lack of support for nested group hierarchies. When converting complex 3D models with subgroup structures, the hierarchy will be flattened during export. Nevertheless, 3MF remains a highly advanced and preferred format for professional 3D printing, providing significant advantages over older standards like STL.
Streamline Your 3D Printing Projects
Upgrade your additive manufacturing workflows with powerful 3MF file conversion capabilities. Try Autoconverter and Automesher Application today to experience seamless 3MF file handling, enhanced model fidelity, and smoother 3D printing preparation!
COB vs 3MF - Key Differences
| Feature | COB | 3MF |
|---|---|---|
| Extensions | .cob, .scn | .3mf |
| Name | Caligari TrueSpace Object | 3D Manufacturing Format |
| Versions | 🚫 | 🚫 |
| Textures | ❌ | ✅ |
| Colors | ✅ | ✅ |
| Geometry components | ❌ | ✅ |
| Importers | ||
| Exporters | 🚫 |
👉 Tired of clunky COB and 3MF conversions? Try our COB to 3MF Converter now and enjoy smooth, accurate output with a user-friendly interface.