Rubens Knowledge Base
Which data is needed to start a configurator project?
The correct preparation and availability of data is a key success factor for a configurator project.
In order to make a product configurable, various data and information are required for the data creation of the configurator. The most important distinction here is between graphical and commercial data creation. The former includes all the data required for a high-quality 3D visualization of the product in the configurator. The commercial data, on the other hand, refers to the product logic: parameters, configuration rules, price logic, article numbers, etc. In this article we will explain which data you need.
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Visual product data for the graphical data setup
3D Models
For each product option you need a 3D model in one of the following formats:
- glTF (recommended choice)
- Autodesk FBX
- Blender 2.79d or later
- OBJ
- 3DS
In the case of a sofa, for example, this could be a 3D model of individual add-on elements, armrests or feet in various shapes, as well as accessories (upholstery, headrest, stool, etc.).
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💡The exact specifications for 3D models can be found in our docu "3D assets requirements"". Furthermore you can use our free Content Analyzer to get a first feedback about your data quality.
Materials
Materials describe the physical properties as well as the appearance of the surface of a 3D object. The material can include various parameters such as base color, raisedness, metallic appearance, transparency, etc. These parameters are represented either by numerical values or by textures or texture maps. These parameters are represented either by numerical values or by textures or texture maps.
Texture examples:
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A texture map is an image that is applied to the surface of the 3D object to give the material a special appearance. Here is an example of a material to which a "normal map" is added to give the material the typical appearance of wood:
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💡For materials and texture maps there are exact specifications how they have to be available to realize a high visualization quality. You can read more about this in our doc "Texture requirements and materials".
Commercial Data Setup - Information on Product Logic
The following information is needed for commercial data creation:
- Product parameters (e.g. size, color, material, shape, style, lighting, etc.).
- In case of a modular product structure: number of elements, configuration rules
- Do you want to start an inquiry process or link the configurator to an existing webshop?
Product catalogs, assembly instructions, reference pictures or sketches help us to get familiar with your product. For product inquiry or order processes via webshop, we need information on pricing as well as a list of article numbers and prices. If data is available in standardized data formats such as IDM or IMOS, send us a sample data set.
At the beginning of the project there is a detailed conception phase, in which we define the product in detail together and determine which parameters and configuration options will be implemented in the first step. Often it makes sense to reduce complexity in favor of user friendliness and not to give the user every imaginable configuration freedom.
💡What more is important
Timely project completion requires the availability of correctly prepared data and information. Data that is delivered too late or incorrectly usually means a delay or even additional costs in the project. To avoid this, we support you with a data analysis before project start, a data service or connect you with one of our experienced service partners.