Yes - I can see this problem.
This may be become more of a problem in the future if different file formats use the same file extension.
I suggest you use:
Code:
Prototype Boolean ac_replace_importer_function(char *suffix, ac_file_importer_func func); /** suffix e.g ".wrl" **/
To replace the internal 3ds load function.
object_clone - creates a total copy of the object passed - new vertices and surfaces etc.
ACObjects do have internal matrix stuff but it's not fully used (i.e. it's only used in loading and saving of AC3D files) and it not available from the plugin interface. All vertices are stored as global coordinates.
To apply a material to an object, set the materials of each surface with surface_set_col. See the section in the .h file for MATERIAL AND COLOUR.
Andy