The glTF format is used to describe 3D files with both the .gltf and .glb file extension.
What is the glTF format?
The glTF (GL Transmission Format) is an open standard for 3D models designed for efficient transmission and real-time rendering. GLTF is widely known as the "JPEG of 3D”, supports both .gltf (JSON-based) and .glb (binary) formats, making it lightweight and fast to load. JigSpace allows you to import glTF files for creating interactive 3D presentations, ensuring compatibility with geometry and upcoming support for advanced features like textures and materials.
Supported features
JigSpace supports importing .glb and .gltf file formats with the following capabilities:
- Model Geometry: Fully supported, allowing the import of 3D shapes, mesh, and structures.
- Scale: models are imported at 1:1 scale, ideal for augmented reality experiences
- Colors: colors on meshes are imported and applied to a standard material
- Textures and materials: Currently, textures and PBR material settings are not imported. However, this feature is in beta and will be added in a future update. For now, you can export textures separately and upload them to JigSpace using this workflow.
How to Import glTF/GLB files into JigSpace
Follow these steps to import your GLB/GLTF files into your 3D presentation in JigSpace
- Open the Jig you wish to import your model to
- Click on the + icon and Import CAD file and select your .glb or .gltf file.
- Once uploaded, add textures or apply material from the JigSpace library to make it as realistic as possible
- When complete, you can save this to your team library or just use it in your current 3D presentation.
Exporting GLB/GLTF Files from 3D tools
The GLTF format is widely supported by modern 3D design tools. Below are some common platforms that can export models to GLTF:
- Blender: Built-in GLTF 2.0 exporter for geometry and basic settings.
- Autodesk 3ds Max: GLTF Exporter plugin for exporting models and materials.
- Autodesk Maya: GLTF export using plugins like Babylon.js Exporter.
- Cinema 4D: Native GLTF exporter for scenes and models.
- Rhino: Offers import and export support for GLTF.
- SketchUp: GLTF export available through third-party plugins.
- Godot Engine: GLTF is recommended for seamless import/export of 3D scenes.
- Paint 3D: Simple GLTF export for basic 3D objects.
- Houdini: Allows exporting models and scenes in GLTF format.
Optimizing glTF Files for JigSpace
Follow these guides when importing glTF files into JigSpace to ensure optimal performance:
- Simplify geometry: Reduce the poly count of your models to improve performance and faster loading times. The Blender template used in our 3D model preparation tutorial has tools for decimating polygons, grouping objects,
- De-featuring: Reduce the number of parts and features in assemblies, before exporting, using guides like JigSpace’s guide for simplifying SolidWorks files.
- Export Textures Separately: Since textures are not imported from GLB/GLTF files, export them separately and upload them using the JigSpace texture workflow.
Troubleshooting glTF Imports
- File won’t upload: Ensure the file size is within your plan’s upload limit and is correctly formatted as .glb or .gltf.
- No textures displayed: Remember that textures are currently unsupported. Upload them separately via the texture workflow.
- Slow loading times for complex models: Simplify your geometry or break your model into smaller components.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can JigSpace import animations from glTF files?
No, animations are not supported at this time.
2. How large can my glTF file be?
File size limits depend on your JigSpace plan. JigSpace supports importing individual 3D model file sizes of up to 100MB, and textures of 10MB. However, it is more important to follow our 3D model performance guidelines to keep your triangle and mesh counts in our recommended range.
3. What happens if my glTF file contains textures?
The model geometry and colors will be imported, but textures and materials will be ignored. You can upload textures separately using the texture workflow.
Support for importing textures is currently in development (as of November 2024). Visit our What’s New page for updates.
4. Which version of glTF is supported?
JigSpace supports GLTF 2.0 for both .glb and .gltf formats. For best results, use .glb for a compact binary format.
Learn More
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