Export textured models from ArcGIS CityEngine into Blender

Summary

ArcGIS CityEngine models can be exported to Wavefront OBJ files along with any associated textures and opened in the 3D modeling software, Blender. However, issues drawing models in Blender may arise if export settings are not set correctly.

Procedure

1. In CityEngine, select the models to export.

Note:
Left-clicking and dragging from bottom-right to top-left allows selecting every part of every model that is partially included in the select box. Left-clicking and dragging from top-left to bottom-right only selects the part of the models that are fully in the select box.

2. Go to File > Export Models.
3. Select the WaveFront OBJ option.
4. Enter the following settings into the Export Model wizard, and export the model.

• For Export Geometry: Models with Shape Fallback

• For Vertex Normals: Write vertex normals
• For Texture Coordinates: Only write first layer of UVs
• In the Global Offset section, click the Center button.

• Material Settings, Include Materials: Checked
• Under Collect Textures: Checked

5. In Blender, go to File > Import > Wavefront OBJ, and navigate to the model location.
6. Turn on the textures by changing the Viewport Shading to Texture or Material.