Using Rhinoceros for creating interactive WebGL visualizations

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Rhinoceros (Rhino) is a popular CAD software used for product/industrial design (automotive, jewelry etc.) and architecture. In this article you'll find how to use this program to create interactive 3D web visualizations that work in the browser.

Pipeline #1 — using glTF 2.0 format

Starting from version 8, Rhino does support exporting to glTF 2.0 format natively. Simply use File > Export Selected or Save As, then choose glTF Text File (*.gltf). After export is done, use the Verge3D toolkit to render glTF 2.0 in the browser. Camera controls are setup automatically. Make sure you load an environment map and/or add a light source so that your model is visible.

For advanced interactive scenarios please refer to the Puzzles docs.

Pipeline #2 — using intermediate modelling software

Verge3D offers an outstanding level of integration with Blender, 3ds Max, and Maya. It allows you to setup all the materials/lighting/cameras/animations using either of those tools and quickly preview in the web environment. This method is more robust even it requires transferring your 3dm asset into one of the said modelling software. To transfer your models from Rhino to Blender you can use the OBJ format, while for 3ds Max / Maya the FBX format would be a more straightforward approach.

Once you have your Rhino scene in Blender, 3ds Max, or Maya, use regular Verge3D-based pipeline to bring your visuals to the web. Check out one following articles for more info:

Verge3D for Blender — Beginners Guide

Verge3D for 3ds Max — Beginners Guide

Verge3D for Maya — Beginners Guide