SoFunction
Updated on 2025-04-05

Detailed explanation of the example of implementing gltf preview diagram in Python

With the continuous development of 3D technology, GLTF (GL Transmission Format) has gradually become one of the most popular 3D file formats in web and mobile applications. GLTF files not only store complex 3D models in a smaller size, but also support features such as animation, materials, lighting and texture. In addition, developers often need to generate preview images when displaying 3D models, which makes it easier for users to quickly understand the appearance of the model. This article will introduce how to use Python to generate a preview of the GLTF model and include relevant code examples.

GLTF File Overview

GLTF files intercept the essence of 3D model files to provide a 3D experience in a lighter way. It has two main forms: .gltf (JSON format) and .glb (binary format). The GLTF file describes the geometry, materials, scene information, etc. of the 3D model.

Why generate a preview

In web applications, users can be provided with preview images of 3D models. This approach significantly improves the user experience and allows users to view their appearance before downloading the model. There are several benefits of using Python to generate preview diagrams:

Strong programmability: Python provides a variety of libraries and tools to flexibly process 3D data.

Automation: Can automatically generate large amounts of preview images for publications, saving time and human resources.

Platform Compatibility: Python supports multiple operating systems and is easy to integrate into different workflows.

Main library introduction

In Python, we can use the following library to generate GLTF preview diagrams:

  • Pygame: Used to create simple graphical interfaces and render 3D content.
  • pygltflib: used to load and process GLTF files.
  • Pillow: for image processing.

We will use pygltflib to load the GLTF file and use Pillow to save the preview image.

Code Example

Here is a sample code showing how to generate a preview of a GLTF model using Python.

import sys
from pygltflib import GLTF2
from PIL import Image, ImageDraw
 
def load_gltf_model(filepath):
    gltf = GLTF2().load(filepath)
    return gltf
 
def generate_preview_image(gltf_model):
    # Assume that the preview image is fixed in size and the background is white    width, height = 640, 480
    image = ("RGB", (width, height), (255, 255, 255))
    draw = (image)
    
    # Example: Simple drawing of model information as a preview    # In real cases, you need to render 3D models    ((10, 10), "Model Name: {}".format(gltf_model.), fill=(0, 0, 0))
    ((10, 30), "Version: {}".format(gltf_model.), fill=(0, 0, 0))
 
    return image
 
def save_image(image, target_filepath):
    (target_filepath)
 
def main(filepath, output):
    gltf_model = load_gltf_model(filepath)
    preview_image = generate_preview_image(gltf_model)
    save_image(preview_image, output)
    print(f"The preview image has been saved to {output}")
 
if __name__ == "__main__":
    if len() != 3:
        print("Usage: python generate_preview.py <gltf file path> <output picture path>")
        (1)
    
    main([1], [2])

Code explanation

load_gltf_model: Use the pygltflib library to load the GLTF model.

generate_preview_image: Creates and returns a preview image. Here we only use text information to represent the features of the GLTF model, which can actually integrate complex 3D rendering.

save_image: Use the Pillow library to save the generated image.

main: The execution of the program, including command line parameter resolution.

The process of generating a preview

The following figure shows the process of generating a GLTF preview diagram using Python:

GLTF_MODELstringtitlestringversionIMAGEstringpathstringformatgenerates

Practical application

Product display: Online stores can display preview images of 3D products to attract users to purchase.

Design Tools: For 3D design tools, it can quickly generate snapshots of design drawings and improve user experience.

Education: In educational applications, it can help students understand complex 3D objects more intuitively.

in conclusion

By using Python and its related libraries, we can easily generate preview diagrams of GLTF models. The basic code for this example can be used as a starting point to expand and improve according to specific needs. In practical applications, you can try to introduce more complex 3D rendering libraries (such as PyOpenGL or ) to make the generated preview images more realistic and exquisite. Ultimately, with the development of 3D technology, the need for preview image generation will only become more important, so mastering this skill will provide developers with more opportunities.

This is the end of this article about the detailed explanation of the examples of Python implementing the implementation of gltf preview diagrams. For more related contents of Python generating gltf preview diagrams, please search for my previous articles or continue browsing the related articles below. I hope everyone will support me in the future!