Enscape releases Enscape 3.5
Enscape has released Enscape 3.5, the latest version of of its real-time visualisation software.
The update introduces a new GI system for GPUs capable of hardware-accelerated ray tracing, makes it possible to customise content from Enscape’s asset library, and adds SpaceMouse support.
An intuitive real-time renderer for architectural design and CAD software
First released in 2015, Enscape has become one of the key tools in the architectural visualization market, reaching the top ten in the last CGarchitect rendering survey.
The software live links to CAD and architectural design tools including Rhino and SketchUp, enabling users to explore large architectural scenes in real time, either on screen or in virtual reality.
Output is ray traced, and can be used for less demanding final-quality rendering, with the option to generate still images, animations, 360-degree panoramas or interactive scenes.
Its developer, also called Enscape, merged with V-Ray developer Chaos in 2022.
New in Enscape 3.5: new GI algorithm for GPUs that support hardware-accelerated ray tracing
Key changes in Enscape 3.5 include the new global illumination algorithm, which provides “improved lighting, reflections and rendering quality” on GPUs that support hardware-accelerated ray tracing.
The effects should be most noticeable in interior scenes, and when rendering mirrors – unlike the previous GI system, it supports infinite reflections – or semi-transparent materials.
The Alpha Channel Export feature also now supports semi-transparent materials, making it easier to composite new backgrounds behind renders of materials like frosted or tinted glass.
In addition the software now supports 3Dconnexion’s SpaceMouse range of 3D control devices.
Selected content from the asset library can now be customised
Outside the core software, the accompanying library of stock assets can now be customised.
Some of the 3D trees, other plants and 3D props now come with readymade variant looks, while users can customise the colours of some of the stock vehicles and furniture models.
The update also introduces 40 new stock 3D human characters, each with one item of clothing for which the colour can be customised.
It is also now possible to select and edit multiple assets simultaneously.
Workflow in the Rhino and Revit integrations has been improved, making it possible to place assets on the selected layer in Rhino, and syncing orthographic views between Enscape and Revit.
Pricing and system requirements
Enscape 3.5 is available for Windows 10+ and macOS 12.2.1+. It works with both AMD and Nvidia GPUs, and integrates with Archicad 24+, Revit 2021+, Rhino 6.0+, SketchUp 2021+ and Vectorworks 2021+.
The software is available rental-only. Node-locked licences cost $77.90/month or $514.80/year; floating licences cost $898.80/year.
Read an overview of the new features in Enscape 3.5 on the product website
Read a list of new features in Enscape 3.5 in the online relase notes