Blog

Blend4Web 15.03 Released

2015-03-31

It has already been a year since the first public release of Blend4Web! So, we are proud to announce the anniversary release of our open platform for developing 3D web applications. In this release you will find: annotations, object instancing, the application for demonstrating APIs and support for color animation in node materials.

Annotations

After receiving numerous requests from our users, we implemented a convenient tool for attaching annotations to 3D objects. The annotation is displayed near the object regardless of the camera position, and even follows it througout the animation.

Annotations can be created entirely in Blender. All you need is to place an Empty object in the required position and enable the Anchor property on it. The text for the annotations can be assigned in the Title field on the Tags panel.

Creating annotations in Blender.

If you need to change the standard design of an annotation (provided by the Annotation option) to any other custom HTML element, specify the Custom Element option. Aside from this, an automatically calculated position of the anchor can be obtained via API and used for any purposes imaginable (specify the Generic option to do this). For example, the Planetarium demo can be extended with an additional Canvas 2D element to display trajectories and movement parameters of space objects (we'll leave this as a homework for our most curious users).

The expanded annotation with additional info.

Clicking on an annotation will enlarge the window, which can display additional information with text from the Description field.

Also, we have implemented a way to detect cases when an opaque 3D object overlaps an anchor (Detect Visibility option). In these cases, the annotation becomes almost transparent and inactive.

The "M" annotation is overlapped and inactive.

Instancing

Blend4Web has introduced a new possibility for creating copies of objects at runtime. For this purpose, we developed corresponding APIs which can be used to make simple (with a shared mesh) or deep copies (the mesh is copied too). Also, a method for removing the copied objects was added.

More monkeys!

API Demo App

Various API usecases were collected in a single demo app which can be found in the SDK. It currently includes: the use of canvas and video textures, procedural camera animation, procedural annotations, modifying geometry at runtime, gyroscope, instancing and modifying materials. The source code of these examples is displayed in a separate window to simplify searching and copying.

API demo app: gyroscope.

Color Animation in Node Materials

Animation of Value nodes in node materials improved graphic effects to a new level. With this release, it becomes possible to animate color in RGB nodes as well.

Color Animation in Node Materials.

In addition, now there is the possibility to control values of Value and RGB nodes via APIs to make the procedural generation of amazing materials possible.

Other Improvements

For this release, a number of API modules have been revised: new control functions for the glow effect were added, camera-related functions were redesigned, methods declared deprecated have been removed.

The settings for the camera rotation and translation were brought to a universal system.

We started implementing a specific Blend4Web profile for Blender. When switching to this profile, the Blender interface changes so that it displays only those settings that are relevant to Blend4Web. At the moment, this functionality is still under experimental status and can be activated in the add-on settings.

Switching to Blend4Web mode.

In order to ensure that users can work with node materials in this profile, we prepared two patches for Blender, the second of which looks most promising. We invite our users to show support in favor of this functionality to be accepted by Blender developers.

In this release, we also took steps to correct errors and to make a number of minor improvements. The full list of fixes and improvements can be found in the release notes. This Blend4Web version is compatible with the newest Blender 2.74.

Feel free to leave comments regarding the new release here.

Comments
22 jan. 2025 08:47
Sydney Gutter Clear specializes in expert Commercial Gutter Cleaning Sydney services across Australia. Ensure your property stays safe and functional with our efficient, reliable, and affordable solutions. Trusted by businesses for maintaining clean and debris-free gutters. Book your service today!
22 jan. 2025 09:05
Gate Automation Perth offers cutting-edge solutions for automated gate systems, combining technology and security for residential and commercial properties. Their expert team ensures seamless installation, maintenance, and repairs, providing reliable access control solutions. Elevate your property's safety and convenience with Gate Automation Perth's innovative gate automation services.
22 jan. 2025 13:00
Elevate your Wine Appreciation with Fine Wines Singapore. Join our expertly guided wine tasting events and workshops, perfect for beginners and connoisseurs alike. Explore exceptional wines, learn from wine experts, and deepen your understanding of fine wines in Singapore. Discover more about wine appreciation with us today!
23 jan. 2025 14:57
Searching for an expert Commercial Plumber Lake Macquarie? ZG Plumbing offers professional plumbing services tailored for businesses, including installations, repairs, and maintenance. Our experienced team ensures efficient solutions for all your commercial plumbing needs. Contact ZG Plumbing today for trusted plumbing services in Lake Macquarie, Australia!
24 jan. 2025 09:29
Upgrade your Electrical Switchboard Upgrades Newcastle with LRN Electrical. Our professional electricians ensure safe and reliable switchboard upgrades to meet modern standards. Protect your home or business with our expert solutions. Contact us today!
24 jan. 2025 10:03
CPandG.com.au provides trusted Residential Property Maintenance Maitland, offering expert solutions for all your home repair and upkeep needs. From plumbing to electrical and general maintenance, our skilled team ensures your property remains in excellent condition. Contact CPandG.com.au today for professional residential property maintenance in Maitland!
25 jan. 2025 12:29
BROTECT AirGlass Motorola G51 Screen Protectorfor Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook.It's 2x thinner and also lighter than other toughened up glass guards and more.The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook Gen 6 13 clear display protector shields versus scuffs and scratches to your screen. The safety surface area on the Lenovo
25 jan. 2025 15:10
Secure your business Network Firewall Protection Service Auckland. Our specialized team offers comprehensive firewall solutions designed to protect your systems from unauthorized access and cyber threats. We provide customized setups, continuous monitoring, and proactive management to ensure your network remains secure and resilient against attacks. With our expert guidance and support, you can focus on your business operations while we safeguard your digital assets. Trust Wizard IT for reliable network firewall protection. Contact us today to enhance your security!
27 jan. 2025 15:38
Enhance your smile with top-tier cosmetic dentistry at Dr. Kacker Cosmetic Dentistry Service in Westlake Village, CA. Our skilled team specializes in teeth whitening, veneers, and comprehensive smile makeovers. Book your appointment today to achieve a beautiful, confident smile!
28 jan. 2025 08:57
Looking for a reliable Dentist in Cumming GA? Dentistincumming offers top-notch dental services for the whole family, from routine checkups and cleanings to advanced treatments like cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and restorative care. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing comfortable, personalized care to keep your smile healthy and bright. Book your appointment today for exceptional dental care in Cumming, GA!
Please register or log in to leave a reply.