Preparing 3D Models for Simplio3D
How to
Setting up 3D models for Simplio3D is a critical step in creating interactive product configurators. Whether you're a designer, developer, or e-commerce professional, ensuring your models are properly formatted and optimized can significantly enhance performance and user experience.
Step 1: Organize and Label Components
One of the first tips is to structure your model by organizing and labeling components clearly, this ensures precise control when creating configurator logic. A well-defined model structure determines how users interact with each part; e.g., splitting a kitchen knife into “blade” and “handle” for better customization.
In your 3D editor (e.g., Blender, Rhino), name and separate parts logically. This legibility accelerates configurator setup, especially for complex products.
Step 2: Ensure UV Mapping for Textures and Uploads
UV mapping isn’t just for textures, it also enables features like image uploads or text engraving. The video highlights this as a vital requirement. Documentation elaborates that UV coordinates allow accurate material placement. For ‘Upload’ and ‘Text’ blocks, mapping must be square (1:1 aspect ratio) to avoid distortion.
Tip: Map UVs intentionally, highlight only the areas where users interact (e.g., engraving spots or image zones) to maintain clean aesthetics and functional usability.
Step 3: Optimize Models for Real-Time Rendering
It is important to optimize your 3d model to ensure smooth performance in a browser environment. Simplio3D recommends using formats like .glb, .gltf, and .obj, with .glb and .gltf being especially optimized for the web. Additionally, simplicity is key, minimize polygons via LOD techniques, center your model at origin (0,0,0), and avoid using unsupported constructs like groups.
Tip: Sculpt in high detail if needed, but export lower resolution versions for the configurator. Tools like Blender’s Decimate Modifier or online compressors work wonders.
Step 4: Placement of the center axis
Maintaining consistent proportions while scaling 3D models can be tricky. The Numeral option block makes this easier by enabling precise adjustments along the X, Y, and Z axes. It’s especially useful for furniture: tables, cabinets, closets, shelves: as well as construction elements like windows, doors, sheds, and roofs, where users need to define width, length, or depth. For best results, ensure the 3D model is properly prepared and adjusted before uploading it to the configurator. More information about this process please follow de documentation.
Extra Enhancements
Beyond the four core steps, we recommend additional best practices:
Asset Categorization: Organize 3D assets and textures into categories for easier management.
Orientation Adjustments: Fix orientation issues (e.g., upside-down models) directly in the platform.
CAD Conversion Tips: Convert CAD files (
.step,.stl) to compatible formats using tools like Blender, Rhino, or SketchUp.Part Separation for Sizing: If you want to let users resize components (using the ‘Numeral’ block), separate and pivot parts properly so they resize accurately without distortion or misalignment.
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Organize & Label | Cleanly separate and name parts for configurator mapping |
| 2. UV Mapping | Map textures and interaction zones with square aspect ratio UVs |
| 3. Optimize Model | Reduce polygon count, center model, format as .glb/.gltf |
| 4. Center axis | Keep mesh proportions consistent during scaling on the X, Y, or Z axis |
| Tips | Categorize assets, fix orientation, convert from CAD, prepare for resizing |
Preparing 3D models for Simplio3D configurators isn’t just uploading, they must be structured smartly, mapped accurately, optimized for performance, and formatted correctly. Following the 4 essential steps equips you to build robust, responsive, user-friendly configurators.
