Nearly any digital asset can be minted as an NFT. Music files, images, mp4s, documents, and other forms of digital art including 3D models can be NFTs.
While we’ve discussed NFTs before in our blog, we haven’t looked specifically at 3D NFTs and how they can operate. So let’s dig in here.
What is an NFT?
In case you are just getting started in the NFT space, let’s quickly review what NFTs are and how a digital asset becomes an NFT.
NFT stands for non-fungible token. And the NFT itself is not technically the digital asset it is tied to at all. Think of it like a certificate of authenticity and a bill of sale for a digital asset all rolled into one.
To create an NFT, the creator of a digital item will “mint” an NFT (token). Minting means creating the token and registering it on the blockchain network so that the record is solid and intact. Then they will list that token of ownership on an NFT marketplace where it can be purchased. If they find a buyer, the creator of the token (presumably the rightful owner of the digital item) makes money.
The smart contract will determine the terms of the sale, and may also detail what the buyer is allowed to do with the digital asset (commercial rights, for example), and the token will be transferred to the owner.
How to make an NFT with 3D models
In order to sell a 3D NFT, the person minting the NFT must own the model and have the rights to sell it. That doesn’t necessarily mean that the seller had to be the creator. If the model was made by a third party, a discussion of ownership should be included in the contract to avoid legal trouble down the road.
The 3D model will need to be in a file format that can be easily shared and useful to the purchaser. It helps to know what you intend the model to be used for, whether it’s a video game asset or for AR, or another use. The most common file formats for 3D models are .OBJ, .FBX, .DAE, .MAX, glTF, or GLB.
A platform to store, edit, and export your 3D assets can be very useful. That’s one way that Ocavu can help you use a 3D model as an NFT. Our platform uses techniques that enable enterprises to manage thousands of3D models, allowing for easy management and a single source of truth.
Our recently announced OCAVU Network has easy-to-use tools that allow anyone to distribute content in Web3 (from tokens, video, 3D/AR, NFTs, and more). This will help creators manage their 3D NFTs, and help “brands, influencers, artists, athletes, and more reclaim ownership of their community, monetize their content, and add real-world value for their users. The Network allows for true ownership and revenue potential over the content creators’ build – not just a percentage like other social platforms.”
To learn more about our platform and network, book a demo of the Ocavu platform today.