I first heard the term WebGL a few months ago when a new and important network connection asked me if any of my teams were using it for displaying 3D animation. I run into new technologies all the time, but fortunately, as a sales person it’s perfectly OK for me to plead partial ignorance, with a response, like “sure, but I don’t know too much about the technical details”. Of course, that only works with relatively new technologies like WebGL.
According to Wikipedia “WebGL (Web Graphics Library) is a JavaScript API for rendering interactive 3D graphics and 2D graphics within any compatible web browser without the use of plug-ins”. In plain English that means that WebGL lets developers create a 3D animation that users can see and manipulate using any up-to-date internet browser.
At Software Development Resources one of our teams that specializes in 3D modeling is using WebGL to enable package design agencies like Lamiroult Advertising & Design to take a 2D package design like the box below…
…and present it to their customers in a realistic virtual 3D rendering that they can click on to manipulate using only a standard browser. Go ahead, click the image and see for yourself!
With the ability to render any 2D or 3D animation, WebGL can be used for a whole lot more than just package design. Think – virtual tours, simulations, games, training, interactive infographics, interactive films…
If any of this stimulates your imagination, contact us and we’ll figure out a way to make your idea come to life with WebGL.