Book Image

Learn Three.js - Third Edition

By : Jos Dirksen
1 (1)
Book Image

Learn Three.js - Third Edition

1 (1)
By: Jos Dirksen

Overview of this book

WebGL makes it possible to create 3D graphics in the browser without having to use plugins such as Flash and Java. Programming WebGL, however, is difficult and complex. With Three.js, it is possible to create stunning 3D graphics in an intuitive manner using JavaScript, without having to learn WebGL. With this book, you’ll learn how to create and animate beautiful looking 3D scenes directly in your browser-utilizing the full potential of WebGL and modern browsers. It starts with the basic concepts and building blocks used in Three.js. From there on, it will expand on these subjects using extensive examples and code samples. You will learn to create, or load, from externally created models, realistic looking 3D objects using materials and textures. You’ll find out how to easily control the camera using the Three.js built-in in camera controls, which will enable you to fly or walk around the 3D scene you created. You will then use the HTML5 video and canvas elements as a material for your 3D objects and to animate your models. Finally, you will learn to use morph and skeleton-based animation, and even how to add physics, such as gravity and collision detection, to your scene. After reading this book, you’ll know everything that is required to create 3D animated graphics using Three.js.
Table of Contents (14 chapters)

Working with the camera

Three.js has a number of camera controls you can use to control the camera throughout a scene. These controls are located in the Three.js distribution and can be found in the examples/js/controls directory. In this section, we'll look in more detail at the following controls:

Name

Description

FirstPersonControls

These are controls that behave like those in first-person shooters. Move around with the keyboard and look around with the mouse.

FlyControls

These are flight simulator-like controls. Move and steer with the keyboard and the mouse.

TrackBallControls

These are the most-used controls, allowing you to use the mouse (or the trackball) to easily move, pan, and zoom around the scene. Note that if you use OrtographicCamera, you can use OrtographicTrackBallControls, which are specifically made to...