If your drone processing tool doesn’t export 3D Tiles directly (like Pix4D, Propeller, or OpenDroneMap), you can still upload your models to Birdi — you’ll just need to convert them first.
Option 1: Use Cesium ion
Cesium ion is a cloud-based platform that converts .obj, .las, .laz, .gltf, and other formats into Cesium 3D Tiles (.3tz or tileset.json + tiles).
Steps:
Sign up at cesium.com/ion (free and paid plans available).
Upload your model:
Supported: .obj, .las, .laz, .gltf, .dae, .fbx
Cesium ion will process your model and generate 3D Tiles.
Download the processed output:
Either as a .3tz file or a folder containing tileset.json and tiles
Upload to Birdi via the 3D Model upload option.
Tip: Don’t forget to zip the folder if Cesium gives you a tileset.json + tile structure.
Option 2: Use Open-Source Tools (Advanced)
If you prefer a self-hosted or offline solution, you can use tools like:
3D Tiles Converter (by Cesium)
Convert .obj to .gltf, then tile using 3d-tiles-tools.Entwine (for point clouds)
Convert .las/.laz to 3D Tiles, often used in conjunction with Potree or PDAL.3D Tiles Tools CLI
A suite of Node.js tools for generating 3D Tiles locally from various formats.
Keep in mind:
These tools require some technical setup (Node.js, command line, etc.)
They offer more control but need more manual handling
When to Convert
You have... | Use Cesium ion or open-source tools |
.obj, .las, .laz, .gltf | ✅ Supported for conversion, direct upload options coming soon. |
.zip with tileset.json | ✅ Already Birdi-compatible |
.3tz file | ✅ Upload directly to Birdi |
.ply, .fbx, .dae | ⚠️ Convert to .gltf first, then tile |
Need Help Converting?
If you're unsure which conversion path is right for you or you'd like help getting started, reach out to [email protected]. We’re happy to help point you in the right direction.