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Tutorial
Best Practices for Exporting an AR-Ready Model from Blender3D
Exporting a 3D model for Augmented Reality (AR) requires optimizing the model for performance, ensuring compatibility with AR platforms, and using the correct export settings. This guide will help you prepare an optimized .GLB model using Blender3D.
Step 1: Preparing the Model
- Optimize High-Poly Meshes:
- AR platforms require optimized, low-poly models for real-time performance. Simplify high-poly meshes using Blender’s modifiers and tools:
- Decimate Modifier:
- Select your high-poly mesh, then go to Modifiers > Add Modifier > Decimate.
- Adjust the Ratio slider to reduce the polygon count without significantly affecting the shape. Aim for a model with less than 250,000 triangles for best AR performance.
- Apply the modifier once you’ve reached the desired polycount.
- Remesh Modifier (if you need a more uniform topology): Use this modifier to create cleaner geometry while reducing polygons.
- Clean Up the Model:
- Merge Duplicate Vertices: Select your model, press M > By Distance to remove overlapping vertices.
- Remove Unused Data: Go to Outliner and delete any unused objects, lights, or hidden geometry.
- Apply Transformations: Make sure the object's scale, rotation, and location are correct by pressing Ctrl + A and choosing All Transforms. This resets the transformations and avoids issues when exporting to AR environments.
- Check Normals:
- Ensure all face normals are facing outward. In Edit Mode, press A to select all, then Shift + N to recalculate normals. Use the Overlay tool (top-right corner) to visualize normals if necessary.
Step 2: Setting Up PBR Materials
Physically-Based Rendering (PBR) materials are crucial for realistic lighting and reflections in AR. Blender’s shader nodes allow you to create PBR materials easily.
- PBR Material Setup:
- Use the Principled BSDF shader in Blender’s Shader Editor. It’s designed for PBR workflows and compatible with glTF (GLB) export.