Vault API – How to retrieve file thumbnails via Web API (non‑APS / non‑Forge)?

[JRajendran4]

Hi,

I am working with Autodesk Vault SDK (Connectivity + Framework APIs) and would like to expose Vault file thumbnails via a custom Web API, without using APS / Forge.

Use case

• Environment: Autodesk Vault (on‑prem), Vault SDK (.NET Framework), Custom ASP.NET Web API
• Input to API: fileName (ClientFileName)
• Output: List of thumbnail images (PNG/JPG) for matching files
• This is a server‑side Web API, not a desktop add‑in.

What I have tried

• Searching files using: DocumentService.FindFilesBySearchConditions, ClientFileName property
• Retrieving thumbnails using: ThumbnailSystem property via PropertyManager
• Exploring: DocumentService APIs related to visualization

I am able to retrieve thumbnails inside a desktop application, but when moving this logic into a Web API, I want to ensure I am using the correct and officially supported Vault API approach.

Questions

1. Is there an official Vault (non‑APS) API to retrieve file thumbnails that is recommended for server‑side / Web API usage?
2. Is using the ThumbnailSystem property the correct approach, or is there a better alternative for Web APIs?
3. Are there any limitations or best practices when exposing Vault thumbnails through a Web API (e.g., visualization dependency, Job Processor requirements)?
4. Is it supported to retrieve multiple thumbnails (list of images) by passing a fileName (or partial match)?

[lauri_barnhart]

Hello @JRajendran4, we appreciate you posting your question.

I wanted to follow up to see if you're still facing this problem?

If your issue is now resolved, please share the details with the community.

If you still require support, please post an update so we can assist you further.

Thanks!

[Markus.Koechl · Accepted solution]

Hi @JRajendran4 : Thumbnails are Vault properties. The properties are mapped to Windows file thumbnails, which CAD applications create on save. So, retrieving thumbnails from Vault follows the same principles as retrieving properties; it can be done in batches. There is no dependency on the creation of the visualization (DWF(x)) file.
I hope this clarifies.

[lauri_barnhart]

Hello @JRajendran4, we appreciate you posting your question.

Did the post by Markus.Koechl help you and answer your question?

If this fixes the issue, please go ahead and accept it as the solution.

This ensures others can benefit from the resolution shared here.

If you still require support, please post an update so we can assist you further.

Best,