Unreal Engine Datasmith Export and Import Navisworks Models with Full Detail

Export Navisworks models with Datasmith and import into Unreal Engine 5. Learn plugin setup, merge settings, and importing models with geometry and materials.

This is Rambod and in this tutorial we learn how to export Navisworks models into Unreal Engine using Datasmith. The Datasmith workflow makes it simple to keep geometry, materials, and hierarchy intact while optimizing performance for large models.

1) Install the Datasmith Exporter for Navisworks

• Visit Unreal Datasmith Plugins.
• Scroll down to find the Autodesk Navisworks Exporter.
• Supports versions 2019 to 2024.
• Download (~30 MB) and install it.
• This adds the Datasmith export option directly into Navisworks.

2) Export from Navisworks

• Open Navisworks and load your model.
• In the Ribbon Bar, find the Unreal Datasmith Export option.
• Click it and configure your export.
• Key option: Merge Last Nth Objects.
  • 0 = no merging, exports every detail (bolts, screws, etc).
  • 3 = merges objects up to 3 levels deep, cleaner and faster for large models.
• For this tutorial, we keep it at 0 to export everything in full detail.
• Save the file as .udatasmith.

3) Enable Datasmith Importer in Unreal Engine

• Open Unreal Engine.
• Go to Edit → Plugins.
• Search for Datasmith Importer.
• Enable it and restart Unreal.

4) Import the Datasmith file

• In Unreal, click Quick Add → Datasmith → File Import.
• Select your exported .udatasmith file.
• Create a new folder (e.g., Datasmith_Import).
• Configure import settings:
  • Turn off Lights, Cameras, Animations.
  • Keep Geometry, Materials, Textures enabled.
• Click Import.

Your model now appears in the Content Browser, ready for use in your scene.

5) Review and optimize

• Place the imported assets into your level.
• For simple models, Merge = 0 gives you full detail.
• For larger projects, use Merge = 3 or higher to avoid performance issues.
• Adjust materials and clean up any unneeded meshes.

Wrap up

Using Datasmith, you can bring detailed Navisworks models into Unreal Engine quickly while controlling hierarchy and performance. Perfect for architecture visualization, design reviews, or simulation workflows.

For more tutorials and resources, check rambod.net, subscribe on YouTube, or watch this tutorial here: Watch on YouTube.