3D Environment

boofredlay

I was asked the other day about the possibility of creating a 3D environment for a large site. I have no problem with the modeling but how to gain access to and maneuverability for someone over the web is beyond me.

For example, on a small scale, what software etc. would you need to allow someone to view a home modeled in SketchUp over the web that would enable them to walk around outside and inside the building freely?

Is it possible? I seem to remember seeing something similar but cannot recall.

Thanks.

Gaieus

There are lots of solutions that allow you to upload content and allow others to freely walk through these using (most of the times) simple web browser plugins.

LightUp:
http://www.light-up.co.uk/index.php?t=player&vc=HU&c=EUR

3D Via:
http://www.3dvia.com/

Unity:
http://unity3d.com/webplayer/

etc.

Rich O Brien

LightUp

3D PDF (lots to choose)

LumenRT (but not over the web, they can download the .exe)

Unity (needs a browser plugin)

boofredlay

Thanks.
Have you guys used these for this purpose before? I found a couple examples of a 3D .pdf that were really slow to navigate and it was just a single object. What I am looking at is equivalent to a small city.

Krisidious

I've often thought of using a first Person Shooter to do this... for instance counter-strike/half life has fantastic graphics easy mobility and there are fairly simple instructions and tools for importing models. downside both parties have to own the game. $50... so anyway... I just wanted to follow this post sooo...

Gaieus

@unknownuser said:

...What I am looking at is equivalent to a small city.

How "flat" is your terrain?

boofredlay

The overall site is fairly flat although I have not explored it fully.

Gaieus

Try that 3D vuia then. You can import individual pieces and then put them together into a scene where anyone can simply wal around and discover the place.

I have had issues with complex, hilly terrains there (it also need to be imported) although they have probably fixed those ever since but if it is flat, there should not be any problem.

Also it's completely free so you won't risk anything. The viewer will need to install a browser plugin though (but ATM it's the same for almost anything in 3D).

Then there is the GE Plugin of course, too...

boofredlay

Thanks Gai. I will explore.