glTF (GL Transmission Format) is the standard runtime 3D format for the web. The Tensile3D plugin writes .gltf + .bin or a single .glb from Autodesk Navisworks Manage and Simulate.
Use sidecar model-tree.json for a part tree and properties that web viewers can ignore, or embed the hierarchy as nested glTF nodes with extras.
Questions or a license? Email tensile3d@gmail.com. License terms.
Features
glTF 2.0 / GLB
Industry-standard meshes and materials for Three.js, Babylon, Unity, and Unreal pipelines.
Optional properties
Navisworks metadata in model-tree.json or on node extras when hierarchy is embedded.
Material batching
Batch by material for fewer draw calls, or turn on Do not batch so each item stays pickable.
Free web preview
Drop the glTF, .bin, and optional model-tree.json on tensile3d.com/3d-viewer — no upload.
Export settings
- Export metadata / properties
Off by default. When on, Navisworks properties go to model-tree.json (sidecar hierarchy) or into the file (embed hierarchy). Takes longer on large models.
- Hierarchy
Separate JSON (default) writes model-tree.json next to the export. Embed writes the selection tree inside glTF, IFC, or USD. 3D Tiles and the single web file always use the sidecar / packed JSON.
- Flip YZ-axis
On by default for glTF, 3D Tiles, and the web file so Y is up. Off by default for IFC and USD.
How to use
- Install the Tensile3D Exporter (or the format-specific bundle) for your Navisworks year and restart Navisworks.
- Open a model. On the Tensile3D ribbon, choose the export format if more than one is licensed.
- Open Settings. Options such as Export metadata/properties, hierarchy (sidecar JSON vs embed), Flip YZ, and units are stored per format.
- Click Export and choose a .gltf or .glb path.
- Open https://tensile3d.com/3d-viewer, multi-select the glTF, .bin, textures, and model-tree.json, and drop them. The glTF viewer opens automatically.
