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https://github.com/edibotopic/write-height

Small web-based tool to quickly make downloadable 3D models from greyscale images. Built using Babylon.js.
https://github.com/edibotopic/write-height

3d 3d-models babylonjs heightmaps image-processing mesh-generation

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Small web-based tool to quickly make downloadable 3D models from greyscale images. Built using Babylon.js.

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README 

        
# Write Height



This is a web app for easily creating 3D meshes from greyscale images.

It was designed to be a free and portable way to view and create 3D models without

the need to download software or use complex tools.



Much of the underlying 3D functionality is provided by the excellent

[Babylon.js](https://www.babylonjs.com) engine, which provides functions for heightmapping, rendering and file creation.



## How it Works



### Model Generation and Viewing



You can generate a random model or select a greyscale image from your phone, tablet or computer.

Images will be automatically converted into 3D models. 



The way the model is rendered can be controlled, with toggles for

`turntable`, `wireframe` and `hide grid`, as well as a colour picker.



Models can be rotated by dragging over the model with the left mouse button or by swiping

on a touchscreen. 

Zooming is controlled using a scroll-wheel or by pinching on a touchscreen. 

Panning can be achieved by dragging with the right mouse button. 

Arrow keys can also be used to control the camera as long as the model is focused (i.e., it has been clicked).



### Exporting Models



Currently the models can be exported to `.stl`, `.obj` and `.glb` formats.

When tested with Blender, all models were imported in the correct

orientation.

In other software models may need to be rotated into place.



## Limitations



Currently the level of detail is fixed, with a default number of

subdivisions for each mesh set to 200, which is quite dense.



The rendered objects may not be optimal for specific uses without further editing. 

For example, you may want to inspect the topology of the model to ensure there is a low

polygon count (games) or no non-manifold geometry (printing). 

Your 3D printing software should alert you to any issues with the model relating to ground support.



## To-do



- [X] Fix bug where multiple downloads trigger

- [ ] Allow level of detail in model to be adjusted 

- [ ] Test option to adjust orientation (y-up/z-up) for export

- [X] Reintroduce `.glb` and `.obj` exports

- [ ] Improve feedback and file-naming on export

- [ ] Persist toggled options between model loadings

- [ ] More and better examples



## Changelog



### v0.1.3



- All major export formats added

- Better GUI styling

- Code cleanup



### v0.1.2



- Multiple download bug fixed

- Added wireframe toggle

- Added grid toggle

- Dispose GUI on repaint

- Minor rendering changes



### v0.1.1



- Added turntable toggle

- Refactored scripts into separate files

- Removed primitive drawing features

- Minor style changes



### v0.1.0



- Conversion of images to 3D with adjustable colour

- Download of meshes to different file formats

- Implementation of simple drawing tools for image creation



## Similar Tools



Ephtracy's [aerialod](https://ephtracy.github.io/index.html?page=aerialod) is an amazing piece of software for rendering high quality 3D models from images and offers a high degree of customisation. 

The software is Windows-only and does not support mobile devices.



## Note



I obtained some of the example heightmaps from the

internet and assume they are free to

use. If you recognise an image of

yours that you would like me to

credit or remove please let me

know.



I plan on replacing some or all of them with original images.