Introduction

Open source 3D modeling and visualization refers to the use of software and tools that are freely available and can be modified and distributed by anyone. These tools and libraries provide a wide range of functionality for 3D modeling and visualization, including the ability to create and edit 3D models, perform numerical simulations, and create detailed visualizations of simulation results.

3D modeling refers to the process of creating a three-dimensional representation of an object or scene. This can be done using a variety of techniques, including polygonal modeling, NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines) modeling, and voxel modeling. 3D modeling software typically provides a wide range of tools and features for creating and editing 3D models, including modeling tools such as extrude, bevel, and smooth, as well as texturing, lighting, and animation tools.

3D visualization, on the other hand, refers to the process of creating visual representations of 3D data, such as 3D models or simulation results. This can be done using a variety of techniques, including ray tracing, rasterization, and volume rendering. 3D visualization software typically provides a wide range of tools and features for creating detailed visualizations of 3D data, including lighting, shading, and animation tools.

Open-source 3D modeling and visualization software are often used in scientific research, engineering, and product design, as they provide a cost-effective alternative to proprietary software. These tools are also popular in the gaming industry, animation, and film-making. Some of the most popular open-source 3D modeling and visualization software include Blender, FreeCAD, and OpenSCAD.

Lists of Opensource Visualization Libraries

• Open CASCADE Technology (OCCT) : A powerful open-source 3D modeling and visualization library. It provides a wide range of algorithms and data structures for 3D modeling, including CAD/CAM/CAE, AEC, and GIS applications. It has a wide range of functionalities for 3D modeling, such as 3D surface and solid modeling, visualization, data exchange, and numerical simulation. OCCT is written in C++, and it has interfaces for other programming languages such as Python, C#, and Java. The library is widely used in many industries such as aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and many more.
• BRL-CAD: A cross-platform solid modeling system that includes an interactive geometry editor, ray-tracing support for rendering and geometric analysis, network distributed framebuffer support, image and signal-processing tools.
• FreeCAD: A general-purpose parametric 3D CAD modeler. It is open-source and highly extensible, and can be used for a wide range of modeling tasks, including architectural and mechanical design, product prototyping, and more.
• LibreCAD: A 2D CAD program for Windows, Mac, and Linux, that can be used for creating technical drawings such as plans for buildings, interiors, mechanical parts or schematics and diagrams.
• Salome: A open-source software that provides a generic platform for Pre- and post-processing for numerical simulation. It includes modules for 3D CAD modeling, meshing, and visualization.
• OpenSCAD: A 3D modeling software that uses a script-based approach to create models. The script describes the model and the program generates the model.
• Coin3D: A open-source high-level 3D graphics toolkit that provides a C++ class library for creating interactive 3D graphics, with support for Open Inventor file format.
• SculptGL: A web-based sculpting application that allows users to create 3D models using a variety of tools and techniques.
• VTK (Visualization Toolkit): An open-source toolkit for 3D computer graphics, image processing, and visualization. It provides a wide range of algorithms and data structures for visualizing and manipulating 3D data.
• OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library): An open-source library for computer vision and machine learning. It provides a wide range of algorithms and data structures for image and video processing, including visualization tools.
• Matplotlib: A plotting library for the Python programming language. It provides a wide range of visualization tools for creating 2D plots, including line plots, scatter plots, and histograms.
• Gnuplot: A command-line plotting tool that can be used to create 2D and 3D plots. It supports a wide range of plot types and can be used to visualize data from a variety of sources.
• ParaView: A powerful visualization tool for numerical simulation data. It can be used to create detailed visualizations and animations of simulation results.
• Mayavi: A 3D scientific data visualization library for the Python programming language. It provides a wide range of visualization tools for creating 3D plots, including surface plots, volume renderings, and animations.
• OpenSceneGraph: An open-source 3D graphics toolkit that can be used to create 3D visualizations and simulations. It provides a wide range of algorithms and data structures for visualizing and manipulating 3D data.
• Blender: A 3D creation software that can be used to create 3D visualizations, animations, and simulations. It provides a wide range of tools and capabilities for creating 3D models and scenes.