OBJ File – What is .obj file and how to open it?
OBJ File Extension
Wavefront 3D Object File – file format by Wavefront Technologies
OBJ is a 3D file format that defines a 3D object with its geometry, vertices, textures, and materials. It is an open standard, widely used in computer graphics and 3D modeling software for data exchange.
Wavefront 3D Object File (.OBJ)
The Wavefront 3D Object File, denoted by the extension .OBJ, is a widely-used open-source 3D model format. Developed by Wavefront Technologies for their Advanced Visualizer application, .OBJ files have gained popularity in the 3D graphics industry due to their simplicity, versatility, and compatibility with various software and applications. The format allows for the representation of 3D models comprising vertices, faces, textures, and other geometric data.
.OBJ files adhere to a text-based syntax, making them human-readable and editable using standard text editors. They store information about the model’s geometry, including the coordinates of vertices, the connectivity of vertices into faces, and the definition of texture coordinates for surface mapping. Additionally, .OBJ files can incorporate material information, allowing for the assignment of colors, textures, and shading properties to the model’s surfaces. This flexibility facilitates the creation of complex and detailed 3D objects with varying degrees of realism.
Opening OBJ Files
To open an OBJ file, you will need a 3D modeling software program that supports OBJ file formats. Some popular choices include:
- Blender. An open-source, cross-platform 3D creation suite that allows you to model, animate, and render in 3D.
- Autodesk Maya. A professional-grade 3D modeling and animation software used by industry professionals.
- Cinema 4D. A high-end 3D modeling and animation software known for its user-friendly interface and powerful toolset.
To open an OBJ file in one of these programs, simply drag and drop the file into the program’s window or use the “File” > “Open” command to navigate to and select the file. Once opened, you can view, edit, and manipulate the 3D model contained in the OBJ file.
Other Ways to View OBJ Files
If you do not have access to a 3D modeling software program, there are several online services that allow you to view OBJ files without having to download any software. These services include:
These services allow you to upload your OBJ file and view it in a 3D interactive viewer. You can rotate, zoom, and pan the model to get a better look at it from all angles. Some of these services also allow you to download the model in other file formats if necessary.
Origin and Development
OBJ is the Wavefront 3D Object File format, developed by Wavefront Technologies, a pioneering force in 3D computer graphics. The format emerged in the 1980s as part of Wavefront’s Advanced Visualizer modeling system and gained widespread adoption due to its versatility and accessibility. OBJ became an industry standard for representing 3D geometry, contributing to the growth of 3D modeling and computer-aided design (CAD).
Structure and Features
OBJ files employ a simple and structured text-based format. They contain a collection of data elements representing geometric primitives, such as vertices, lines, polygons, and textures. Each data element is defined on a separate line, making the file readable and editable. Additionally, OBJ offers support for metadata and material information, enabling the definition of object properties like color, texture mapping, and material parameters. This versatility and ease of manipulation have made OBJ a popular format for sharing and exchanging 3D models in various applications.