General:
3D model content type is probably the most appealing one for augmented reality experiences
genARate offers a basic pipeline for the integration and use of 3D models
This feature enables to place an interactive 3D model in the user’s environment. Users can tap a 3D Thumbnail button to view the model in augmented reality.
See how it works on mobile
Note:
The “How to” section only covers the steps within the genARate Studio / genARate platform. For further information on how to create, export and convert 3D contents please have a look in section Creation Pipeline (further below)
How to:
- Click on the 3D icon inside the toolbar to start the upload dialogue
- Choose between Drop your own 3D Model or Insert from Library types
- After the upload has completed a thumbnail appears inside the scenario editor
- Click on the thumbnail to access the 3D model settings
Settings:
Label: Add text to the 3D model box
Name: Name of the uploaded source file
Thumbnail: Add unique thumbnail to the 3D element
Title background color: change the color of the background
Icon and Text color: change the color of both Icon and Text
Auto play: The animation of the 3D model (has to be provided inside the model) starts playing automatically when it appears in AR (if not, user needs to click 3D Model to start, etc.)
Show play button: Make play button visible when 3D model appears.
Source: Name of uploaded source file and button to replace uploaded 3D model
Formats & Restrictions:
GenARate currently supports the following formats: GLTF (GLB), Subset of FBX (FBX Binary 2012). The genARate 3D engine is compatible with Three.js.
Material Support
| GLTF | FBX | |
| Bump Maps | Good | Good |
| Reflective Materials | Good | Good |
| Matte Materials | Good | Good |
| Alpha Maps | Good | Good |
Animation Support
| GLTF | FBX | |
| Bones | Good | Limited |
| Blend Shapes | Limited – Good | No |
| Transform Animation | Good | Good |
Not supported:
- Import of complete scenes
- Import of lighting
- Custom Shaders
- File size restriction: max 20 MB
Creation Pipeline:
- Link Doc IR
- Link Description Zan
- Use of 3D Paint for conversion
Mobile:
The experience begins when the user scans the target image and click on 3D model thumbnail box. After a reticle appears with text on the button “move the device slowly” this signifies that the device is searching for and then has detected a horizontal surface. Tapping the button “Place” reticle places the 3D model in the user’s personal environment. From there, users can view the 3D model from various angles. Users can then modify the position, scale of the object, and interact with on-screen touch gestures.