Working with GLB and USDZ files in Shapr3D

What are GLB and USDZ files?

GLB and USDZ are 3D file formats used to share and display models in visualization and augmented reality (AR) applications.

Both formats represent 3D geometry as meshes and can include material information for displaying the model outside Shapr3D.

GLB files

GLB is the binary format of glTF (Graphics Language Transmission Format). It is commonly used to share 3D models in visualization applications and AR experiences, particularly on Windows and Android.

GLB can package geometry, materials, and textures into a single file.

USDZ files

USDZ (Universal Scene Description Zip Archive) is a 3D file format used for visualization and augmented reality on Apple devices.

USDZ packages 3D geometry and associated materials for use in compatible applications and AR viewers.

Export GLB and USDZ files from Shapr3D

Shapr3D supports exporting GLB and USDZ files for use in compatible visualization and AR applications. The available settings depend on the selected format.

GLB export settings

The following settings are available when exporting GLB files:

• Include Mesh Bodies: Include existing mesh bodies in the exported file.
• Include Visualization Materials: Include materials applied in Shapr3D's Visualization mode.
• Compress Geometries: Compress the exported geometry to reduce file size.
• Compress Textures: Compress texture data to reduce file size.

USDZ export settings

The following settings are available when exporting USDZ files:

• Include Mesh Bodies: Include existing mesh bodies in the exported file.
• Include Visualization Materials: Include materials applied in Shapr3D's Visualization mode.

Additional export settings

Both formats also support the following settings:

• File Name: Enter a name for the exported file.
• Include Hidden Items: Include hidden items in the export.
• Save Each 1st-Level Item Separately: Export first-level items as separate files, with file names based on their item labels.

Considerations when using GLB and USDZ files

Choose the right format

• GLB: Use for visualization and AR workflows in applications that support glTF, particularly on Windows and Android.
• USDZ: Use for visualization and AR workflows on Apple devices and compatible applications.

Mesh geometry and materials

GLB and USDZ exports convert solid geometry into mesh representations. Unlike STEP or Parasolid, these formats are intended primarily for visualization rather than precise CAD modeling.

To preserve the appearance of your design, enable Include Visualization Materials. The final appearance may vary depending on the destination application's material support.