xeokit is an open-source 3D web graphics SDK from xeolabs & Creoox for BIM and AEC. Built to view huge models in the browser. Used by industry leaders.
Problem
The AEC industry faces significant challenges in efficiently visualizing and managing complex 3D models and BIM data in web environments. Many existing solutions are resource-intensive, lack support for multiple file formats, or require extensive technical expertise for integration. In addition, concerns are raised about data ownership, security and privacy.
Solution
xeokit SDK is a high-performance, open-source toolkit designed for 3D BIM and engineering model client-based visualization - directly in the browser. You know what happens with your data at all times! Unlike traditional solutions that are resource-heavy, format-restrictive, or require complex server-side setups, xeokit SDK enables lightweight, efficient, and interactive visualization without additional software installations. Built for the AEC industry specifically, xeokit SDK supports large-scale models with high precision, making it ideal for architects, engineers, and developers who need a seamless and customizable way to integrate 3D BIM data into their web applications. Key features include:
- High-performance rendering of large models directly in the browser, enabled by a very compact internal geometry format.
- Support for Multiple File Formats: Compatible with various model formats such as IFC (2x3 and 4.3), glTF, OBJ, STL, 3DXML, LAZ/LAS, CityJSON, and XKT, allowing for versatile model integration.
- Double-Precision Geometry: Handles models with double-precision & real-world coordinates, ensuring accurate rendering without loss of precision, even with federated models.
- Extensible JavaScript Toolkit: Offers an extensive and growing library of plugins and tools to accelerate application development, including navigation aids (plan views, section planes, FPN), measurement tools (distance and angle measurement), collaboration features (3D annotations, BCF viewpoints), and various model loaders. For the quick start there is even a ready-to-use simple BIM Viewer. With these capabilities, xeokit SDK empowers AEC professionals to interact with and analyse their data more efficiently.
Why Open Source?
By adopting an open-source model, xeokit SDK promotes transparency, trust, flexibility, and innovation within the AEC industry. Developers and organizations worldwide can contribute to and benefit from continuous improvements, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that drives technological advancement. Rather than reinventing the wheel, teams can accelerate development by building on top of a proven, well-supported solution—delivering value faster and focusing on their core innovations.
Technology
- Pure WebGL for hardware-accelerated 3D rendering
- JavaScript/TypeScript for a flexible and extensible API
- Custom XKT format for ultra-fast loading of large BIM models
- IFC, glTF, dotBIM, LAS/LAZ, and more for multi-format support
- Event-driven architecture for seamless interactivity
- Lightweight and framework-agnostic, easily integrating with the common web frameworks
- Distributed via npm and GitHub, making it easy to integrate into any development workflow
License
xeokit SDK is distributed under the Affero GPLv3 License, ensuring that all modifications and derivative works remain open source when distributed. This commitment to openness enhances transparency and collaboration within the community.
Operating Model
xeokit SDK is a partly community-driven, partly industry-driven open-source project with commercial backing from Creoox AG (https://creoox.com/). While the source code is freely available under Affero GPLv3, organizations can access commercial support, alternative license, custom integrations, and additional services to maximize the SDK’s potential. Typical xeokit SDK customers are software providers in the field of CDE platforms, Facility Management, Construction Management, IoT and Infrastructure.
About the team
xeokit SDK was originally developed by Lindsay Kay and is now actively maintained by a dedicated team of software engineers, xeokit integrators, and AEC industry experts at Creoox AG, along with contributions from a growing community of innovators. With a strong focus on technical excellence, open collaboration, and industry-driven innovation, the team is committed to advancing 3D/BIM technology and empowering AEC professionals worldwide with cutting-edge visualization solutions.
Contact
For more information or collaboration opportunities, reach out via email at contact@creoox.com or visit our website: xeokit.io.
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