Clara.io

Clara.io is a web-based 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software developed by Exocortex, a company recognized for creating innovative plugins for major 3D software.

Freemium Service

1. Different plans: Basic (free) and paid options.
2. Basic plan: Limited scenes and storage, with restrictions on saving models and importing texture maps.

Aims and Compatibility

1. Aims for accessibility, ease of use, and collaboration.
2. Compatible with over 30 3D file formats, including FBX, Collada, STL, OBJ, Three.JS, and Babylon.JS.
3. Integrates VRay Cloud Rendering for photorealistic rendering.

Features and Capabilities

1. Modeling Tools: Sub-object editing, subdivision surfaces, UV editing, and more.
2. Animation and Rigging: Keyframe animation, skeletal animation, inverse kinematics.
3. VRay Cloud Rendering: High-quality cloud rendering with flexible settings.
4. Scripting and Plugins: Customization and extensibility through scripting and plugins.

User Interface

1. Modeled after traditional desktop tools like Maya or Blender.
2. Main panels: Viewport, Scene Explorer, Properties Panel, Toolbox, Timeline, and Menu Bar.

Workflow

1. Create or Import Models: Use tools to create or import 3D models.
2. Apply Materials and Textures: Apply materials and textures from a library.
3. Set Up Lighting and Cameras: Configure lighting and cameras for scenes.
4. Animate Models: Animate using keyframes, skeletal animation, or imported rigs.
5. Render Scenes: Render locally or via VRay Cloud Rendering.

Integration

1. Integrates with VRay Cloud Rendering for cloud-based rendering.
2. Supports exporting scenes to Three.JS, Babylon.JS, Sketchfab, and Google Drive.

Use Cases

1. Education, gaming, architecture, advertising, art, and entertainment.
2. Offers a free education plan for schools and universities.

Customization and Training

1. Customizable preferences, scripting, plugins, and REST API.
2. Offers tutorials, documentation, and a community forum for support.

Community and Collaboration

1. Access to an online library of free 3D models.
2. Real-time collaboration, version control, and Sketchfab integration.

Support and Resources

1. Help menu, blog, FAQ, and contact options available.
2. Future developments include VR and AR support, as well as mobile compatibility.

Conclusion

Clara.io is a versatile, collaborative 3D platform designed for both professionals and enthusiasts. It provides a comprehensive set of features, integrations, and support resources, making it a powerful tool for users. Continuously evolving, Clara.io plans future updates to further enhance its functionality and usability.