Unreal Datasmith Export

What Is Datasmith?

• Datasmith is a file format produced by Epic Games that is supported by rendering applications within their ecosystem.

What Is the Datasmith Export?

• The Unreal Datasmith Export functionality is a high-fidelity method for exporting BIM and design models to Twinmotion, Unreal Engine, and other Epic Games products. For a video overview, click here.

Does Datasmith Create a Direct-Link Connection with Vectorworks and Twinmotion?

• Yes. The Twinmotion Direct Link feature builds upon the Export to Datasmith feature available since Vectorworks 2021 SP3. With 2022, we simplify the process of synchronizing a 3D model between Vectorworks and Twinmotion, using the Datasmith Direct Link tool. The Datasmith Direct Link tool, available in the visualization tool set, enables a single click to send Vectorworks models to Twinmotion eliminating file transfers and export/import steps.

Why is the Datasmith File Format More Useful Than Previous Workflows?

• Datasmith is a native file format for Unreal Engine. Users can maintain manageable file sizes by customizing level-of-detail for exported geometry. Textures translate to Twinmotion, meaning less model clean-up for rendering. Twinmotion now better supports Vectorworks file organization, enabling easier model management within Twinmotion.

Who Can Use the Datasmith Export?

• The Datasmith file format is supported by both Twinmotion and Unreal Engine. Design series and Fundamentals users of Vectorworks 2021 Service Pack 3 on both Mac and Windows can take advantage of the functionality.

Will Twinmotion Be Bundled with Vectorworks like Renderworks Is?

• No. Twinmotion is an independent product by Epic Games.

Does the Datasmith Export Enable the Ability to Render Models in Real Time?

• Yes. Choose Export Unreal Datasmith file export command. This saves the .udatasmith file along with “assets” (geometry and textures). Then import this file in Twinmotion. Thereafter, users can make changes in Vectorworks to add, modify, and delete objects, and to override textures in Twinmotion. To update the model again after the initial export, overwrite the .udatasmith file by exporting it again from Vectorworks, and in Twinmotion press the "chasing arrows" icon to have Twinmotion pick up the new import. Overrides to textures and any geometry you added in Twinmotion from their content should remain unaffected.

Why Don’t I See Datasmith as an Export Option?

• If you haven’t updated Vectorworks 2021 with Service Pack 3, the export option will not appear. It appears under File > Export once updated. Those who have developed custom workspaces may have to add the export option from the Workspace editor.