Visual Technology's PDF3D software development kit is now compatible with Adobe's Acrobat 8 software, enabling content publishers to send out 3D PDF files without forcing recipients to download plug-ins or separate file conversion applications.Software product provider Visual Technology Services' PDF3D SDK (software development kit) allows content publishers to create 3D graphics in standard PDF files as well as Universal 3D (U3D) files. The SDK can now be imported and managed using Adobe Acrobat 8 software, including Acrobat 8 professional and Acrobat 3D.
The PDF3D SDK from Visual Technology Services, launched in July 2006, allows ISVs (independent software vendors) to control Adobe's PDF capabilities while also providing a delivery platform for 3D content. PDF3D SDK also includes a conversion module, which captures 3D model content and attributes as well as an export module, designed for 3D PDF file creation.
Using Adobe Acrobat 8 professional, content publishers are able to create and combine documents while also giving users a way to securely distribute documents.
PDF3D SDK users will be given advanced document security, review and document mark-up features as well as the ability to send out 3D PDF files without forcing the receivers of the files to download plug-ins or separate file conversion applications.
"For applications where 3D content is generated on the fly, PDFD3D SDK can be used to create Adobe 7/8 compatible files offering ISVs a new publishing pathway, with immediate availability through our ISV/OEM program," said Ian Curington, CEO of the U.K.-based Visual Technology Services, in a statement.
Acrobat 3D will enable PDF3D SDK users to export to standard 3D formats such as IGES (initial graphics exchange specification) and Parasolid, which is 3D geometric model software that is the foundation for CAD (computer-aided design) applications. Acrobat 3D will also allow PDF3D SDK users to convert CAD files to PDF files.
"The U3D format is another example of our interest in supporting the CAD markets and that format fits us very well," Patrick Aragon, Adobe's senior project manager for Acrobat, said in a separate statement.