At HiLo Media we transform static CAD files into immersive 3D‑animated product videos and explainer videos that captivate audiences and communicate complex information with ease. Engaging video content is a powerful marketing tool; studies show 3D animations can increase viewer engagement by up to 30% compared to traditional video, and brands using interactive 3D content often see 20–40 % more sales.
What Is CAD Animation?
CAD animation uses Computer‑Aided Design models as the foundation for animated scenes. By converting precise engineering drawings into textured, dynamic 3D models, we can showcase products from every angle, illustrate their internal mechanisms and place them in real‑world contexts.
Why Use 3D‑Animated Product Videos?
- Immersive product visualization: Interactive 3D animations let viewers explore a product from every angle, making its value clear.
- Higher engagement and conversions: Studies indicate that 3D animations can boost viewer engagement by up to 30% compared to traditional video, and brands using interactive 3D content often see 20–40% more sales.
- Improved customer understanding and memorability: Interactive 3D experiences give customers a deeper understanding of products and are highly memorable, leading to greater recall and confidence.
- Cost and time efficiency: Once created, 3D models can be reused across multiple marketing channels, eliminating the need for repeated photoshoots.
- Flexible storytelling: Animations can illustrate internal mechanisms, exploded views and real‑world environments that static photos cannot.
Our Creative Workflow for 3D Product Animation
- Collaboration with CAD engineers: We begin by importing your CAD data into professional animation tools and working closely with your engineering team to ensure technical accuracy and identify the key features to highlight.
- Concept development & storyboarding: We develop a narrative framework that defines the mood, pacing and camera movements. Storyboards outline each scene, including exploded views and real‑world use‑cases, ensuring the final video aligns with your brand voice. See examples in our portfolio.
- 3D texturing, lighting & animation: We enhance raw models by applying realistic materials such as metal, plastic or glass, then use software like Cinema 4D and Adobe After Effects to animate movements, camera paths and lighting. For complex assemblies, we utilize both local and cloud render farms to deliver high‑quality results efficiently.
- Post‑production & finishing: Finally, we polish the rendered scenes with music, sound design and on‑screen text to reinforce key messages. The finished video is optimized for your preferred platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can CAD animations be used for marketing?
Animated CAD models are versatile marketing assets that work in product demos, advertisements, online shops and virtual showrooms. They showcase features, benefits and use cases in a compelling format that holds viewers’ attention.
What is the process of turning CAD models into animations?
The workflow involves importing the CAD file into a 3D animation program, applying textures and colors, rigging and animating the model, lighting the scene and rendering the final sequence. Post‑production editing adds music, text and other elements for a polished finish.
Why choose animations over static photos?
Static images offer a single view, whereas animations let viewers see a product from multiple angles, explore its internal structure and understand its functionality. This interactive experience increases comprehension and interest, which can translate into higher conversions.
What tools are used to create these animations?
We use industry‑standard tools such as Maxon Cinema 4D for modelling and animation, Adobe After Effects for compositing, and specialized render farms to deliver smooth performance and photorealistic results.