Why Anvil Labs Chose glTF to Revolutionize 3D Data Collaboration

As industries increasingly rely on 3D data for decision-making—whether through drone-captured orthomosaics, LiDAR scans, or 3D models—tools to efficiently manage, analyze, and share this data have become essential. At Anvil Labs, we’ve built a platform that prioritizes collaboration and ease of use, and the glTF (GL Transmission Format) has become the cornerstone of our approach to handling 3D data. Here’s why we chose glTF and how it powers the future of 3D workflows on Anvil Labs.

The Challenge: Managing Complex 3D Data

3D assets are often bulky, fragmented, and tricky to work with. File formats like OBJ or FBX can balloon in size, slowing down workflows. Moreover, compatibility issues between tools frequently require additional steps to optimize, convert, or reduce files before they can be shared or visualized.

These inefficiencies create bottlenecks for industries such as construction, GIS, and drone surveying, where teams rely on real-time collaboration and analysis of 3D data.

Enter glTF: The JPEG of 3D

To address these challenges, Anvil Labs adopted glTF as its preferred file format. Developed by the Khronos Group, glTF has been dubbed the “JPEG of 3D” for its focus on efficient transmission and rendering of 3D models. Its benefits align perfectly with our mission to simplify 3D data workflows:

• Smaller File Sizes: glTF’s lightweight nature reduces load times, enabling faster interactions, even for large datasets.
• Interoperability: glTF works seamlessly across platforms, including desktop applications, web viewers, and AR/VR environments.
• Future-Proof: Supported by a thriving community and continuous updates, glTF ensures long-term compatibility with evolving tools and technologies.

How Anvil Labs Leverages glTF

Anvil Labs integrates glTF deeply into its platform to offer a streamlined, user-friendly experience:

• Faster Loading: By supporting binary glTF (.glb) and JSON-based glTF (.gltf) formats, Anvil Labs ensures that 3D models, textures, and animations are optimized for performance.
• Rich Metadata Integration: glTF’s support for metadata enables users to annotate and measure models within the platform, fostering collaborative workflows.
• Seamless Sharing: Whether you’re working on a browser or embedding models into external tools like Blender or Unreal Engine, glTF assets can be shared securely with minimal overhead.

Real-World Applications

Consider the case of drone-captured data. With Anvil Labs, users can process their raw data into high-resolution 3D models and export them in glTF format. This makes it easy to:

• Collaborate in real-time with team members through annotations and measurements.
• Share lightweight models directly with stakeholders, even over low-bandwidth connections.
• Import glTF files into external tools for additional analysis or visualization.

glTF in Action: Learn More

If you’re curious about glTF and its capabilities, check out the glTF Sample Models repository, maintained by the Khronos Group. This resource offers a variety of example models in both binary and embedded formats.

For an interactive demonstration, upload these models to Anvil Labs. Explore how we’ve integrated glTF to empower faster, more collaborative 3D workflows.