How to make 3D models for Timebox (and sell them too)

We've been getting questions asking how to make and add 3D models to the Timebox Movie Maker 3D app and thought a cheat sheet would be helpful. Models created with the recommended size, scale, texture images etc. makes adding them to scenes much easier. We're also interested in buying 3D models - keep reading for more info.

Here are the specifications for 3D models that work well in Timebox:

1. Timebox uses Apple's SceneKit rendering engine on all platforms: iPhone, iPad and Mac. Apple has written a description of what they recommend for USDZ models and SceneKit here: https://developer.apple.com/documentation/realitykit/creating-usd-files-for-apple-devices

2. We prefer purchasing or obtaining Timebox models from Sketchfab.com because it provides a real 3D view of a model and we can choose between multiple formats, including USDZ, GLB and other formats like FBX and OBJ. SketchFab has some good info about making good models and most of their guidelines apply to Timebox also.

3. Here are some additional recommendations for all Timebox models:

1. License: Standard (not Editorial Only)

2. Format: available in one or more of USDZ, GLB, OBJ and/or FBX (Sketchfab provides automatic conversion to USDZ and GLB for most models).

3. Scale: 1 meter per unit preferred  and assumed by Sketchfab, though Sketchfab will scale USDZ files to the standard 1 centimeter per unit.

4. A single PBR metalic material highly preferred, with PNG or JPG texture images, with 2048 size available (Sketchfab will downsample for USDZ and GLB).

5. Poly / polygon / triangle count: less 100K.

6. Center the model on 0,0 and make it's lowest Y position zero so it sits on the floor, not below it or floating above it.

7. Just one object in the model (e.g., not multiple chairs or tables).

8. Do not include nodes, meshes or materials for cameras, lights, floor, ground shadow, background or sky.

4. Here are some details for animated human and animal models:

1. Multiple animations must be included in the model and clearly named (e.g., Run, Walk, Idle, etc.)

2. Facial animation is a big feature in Timebox and we use Apple's ARKit ARFaceAnchor.blendShapes specification for blend shapes (morph targets). If you can include all 52 blend shapes, that will help make the the animation more expressive and realistic.

We're looking to purchase 3D models (up to $20 for most models) via SketchFab to use in Timebox Movie Maker 3D. We're especially interested in animated human and animal characters, but interesting non-animated models would also be great. Check the list of 525 3D models in the Timebox Movie Maker 3D app to see our current list.

Human and animal characters with ARKit-compatible Face Blend Shapes are especially desirable for Timebox because they allow users to add their own voice dialogue and face-tracking animations to the characters.

If you add any models to SketchFab that you want us to see or have any questions send email to len.kawell@timeboxapp.com or tap the Timebox icon in the app and then Contact Developer. Thanks!