KeyShot works great for generating visuals of one model, but did you know you can create countless variations of a model as well? KeyShot allows you to create independent model variations and do it all in a single scene. Let’s have a look at how you can use these to explore different materials and configurations of your model.

What are Model Sets?

Model Sets is a feature available to users of KeyShot Pro. It’s a tool that allows you to save independent Scene Tree variations in a single bip file. So, if you need to create variations of a product, or you’d like to better organize multiple components, experiment with different compositions, or create assembly sequences, you can do so using Model Sets. You’ll find Model Sets on the Scene Tree tab, in a sidebar activated by clicking the double arrows next to the search bar. Let’s walk through how to set them up.

1. Adding A Model Set

There are a couple of ways to add a Model Set. You can add a Model Set by clicking the Add Model Set icon where you can give it a name, choose what to include in the Model Set, and select options like Link Materials. You can also right-click on a part in the Scene Tree and select Create Model Set from Selection or Copy to Model Set. You can also choose to create a new Model Set when you import a new model.

2. Working With Model Sets

With several Model Sets in the list, it’s easy to select one or multiple Model Sets to be active in the Real-time View. Model Sets can be set up to show only the items you want to work on or the items you want for a final shot. You may want to have Model Sets for internal parts and external housing, or Model Sets for a product with and without accessories shown. For the active Model Set, you can continue to add models or rearrange the layout without affecting the other Model Sets.

3. Multiple Scenes, One File

The idea behind Model Sets is simple – multiple scenes, one file. Switching Model Sets is like opening a new scene each time, but really it’s all nicely packed up in one file. The advantage? All the same Cameras and Environments set up for one scene can be used across each Model Set.

4. Adapts to Your Workflow

You can use Model Sets any way you’d like. It’s a feature that is easily adaptable to your personal workflow. You’ll see better organization of your Scene Tree and you’ll simplify all of your work in just one file.

5. Prepares files for KeyShot Configurator

Everything in KeyShot is thought out to complement the entire product development process, using one scene for multiple needs. If you set up product variation in your Model Sets, this leads easily into using the KeyShot Configurator to create an online product configurator, reducing the setup to make use of this presentation tool.

If you’ve been bouncing around through different files or trying to hide/unhide a long list of parts in order to achieve what Model Sets can do, check out KeyShot Pro for this awesome feature. To learn more about Models Sets in KeyShot visit the KeyShot manual.

What Can You Create?

We would love to see what you create with this tip. Visit the KeyShot Amazing Shots forum to see what others are creating and share your own work. And if you have a suggestion for another tip share it in the comments below.