Format Guide
The ISO XML standard for interactive web 3D — VRML's modern successor with DOM integration and WebGL rendering.
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| Extension | .x3d (XML), .x3db (binary), .x3dv (VRML encoding) |
|---|---|
| Full name | Extensible 3D |
| Standard | ISO/IEC 19775 |
| Encoding | XML (primary), binary, VRML classic |
| Open standard | Yes — Web3D Consortium |
| Supports color | Yes — materials and textures |
| Supports animations | Yes — interpolators and scripts |
| Predecessor | VRML |
X3D (Extensible 3D) is an ISO/IEC 19775 standard developed by the Web3D Consortium as the XML-based successor to VRML. X3D uses XML to define 3D scenes with geometry, materials, textures, lights, cameras, animations, and interactive behaviors (sensors, scripts). The X3DOM project enables X3D to run natively in web browsers using WebGL, without any plug-in. X3D scenes can be integrated into HTML pages as regular DOM elements. For engineering use, X3D is relevant in technical documentation (MBE — Model-Based Engineering), where annotated 3D models need to be embedded in web-based technical manuals and product documentation.
Engineers embed interactive X3D models in HTML documentation for part catalogs, maintenance manuals, and technical publications — readers can rotate and inspect components in-browser.
X3D is used in medical imaging, protein structure visualization, and scientific simulation output where interactive 3D data needs to be shared via browser.
Interactive 3D assembly-procedure training tools use X3D to deliver browser-based 3D content without requiring dedicated software on learner machines.
FreeCAD, MeshLab, Blender (via export), X3DOM (browser renderer), InstantReality, and 3D CAD Converter.
Commonly converted from STEP, VRML, or OBJ for web documentation, or from X3D to STL for 3D printing, or to glTF/GLB for modern WebGL renderers.