OpenFlight
| Industry | Software |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1988 |
| Products | MultiGen real-time 3D modeling software, OpenFlight file format |
OpenFlight (file extension .flt) is a 3D geometry model file format created by Software Systems Inc. in 1988 for use with its MultiGen real-time 3D modeling software. Initially called Flight, the format was developed as an open, nonproprietary standard for real-time 3D visual simulation image generators and was later renamed OpenFlight to highlight its unrestricted application in image generation (IG). The MultiGen software, now referred to as Creator, along with the OpenFlight format, gained rapid acceptance within the commercial flight simulation sector during the late 1980s and early 1990s. NASA Ames was among the first adopters of the MultiGen modeling tools.
A major benefit of OpenFlight compared to formats such as .obj, .dxf, and .3ds lies in its specialization for real-time 3D graphics. It utilizes polygonal models organized in a hierarchical tree structure crucial for IG systems. Unlike other formats designed primarily for offline rendering, OpenFlight optimizes performance specifically for simulation environments.
Currently, OpenFlight continues to serve as a widely recognized interchange format in advanced real-time visual simulation and is maintained by Presagis.
Related File Formats
OpenFlight models often incorporate supplementary files that specify material attributes or shader definitions.
Versions and History
| Version | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| OpenFlight 16.8 | December 2021 | Scene Specification version 16.8, supporting Presagis Creator Suite 20 |
| OpenFlight 16.7 | November 2018 | Scene Specification version 16.7, compatible with Presagis Creator Suite 18 |
| OpenFlight 16.6 | January 2017 | Scene Specification version 16.6, for Presagis Creator Suite 16 |
| OpenFlight 16.5 | February 2016 | Scene Specification version 16.5, aligned with Presagis Creator Suite 15 |
| OpenFlight 16.4 | June 2009 | Scene Specification version 16.4, related to Presagis Creator v4.0 |
| OpenFlight 16.3 | January 2008 | Scene Specification version 16.3, for Presagis Creator v3.4 |
| OpenFlight 16.2 | January 2007 | Scene Specification version 16.2, supporting MultiGen-Paradigm Creator v3.2 |
| OpenFlight 16.1 | October 2005 | Scene Specification version 16.1, compatible with MultiGen-Paradigm Creator v3.1 |
| OpenFlight 16.0 | December 2004 | Scene Specification version 16.0, linked to MultiGen-Paradigm Creator v3.0 |
| OpenFlight 15.8 | May 2003 | Scene Specification version 15.8, covering MultiGen-Paradigm Creator v2.6 |
| OpenFlight 15.7 | January 2001 | Scene Specification version 15.7, supporting MultiGen-Paradigm Creator versions v2.4 through v2.5.1 |
| OpenFlight 15.6 | September 1999 | Scene Specification version 15.6, compatible with MultiGen-Paradigm Creator versions v2.1 to v2.3 |
| OpenFlight 15.5.1 | July 1998 | Scene Specification version 15.5.1, associated with MultiGen Creator v2.0 and v2.0.1 |
| OpenFlight 15.4.1 | July 1998 | Scene Specification version 15.4.1, related to MultiGen II v1.4 and v1.5 |
API
Modeling Tools
A variety of modeling applications accommodate the OpenFlight file format for both importing and exporting data. Among these, Presagis Creator stands out for its extensive OpenFlight compatibility. Remograph’s Remo 3D also utilizes OpenFlight as its primary file format. Although Blender once offered the ability to import OpenFlight models, this feature has been removed in recent updates, and it currently lacks export capabilities for this format. Autodesk 3DS Max maintains support for exporting OpenFlight files in its 2024 edition. Additionally, Carbon Graphics continues to enhance its OpenFlight editor within Geo STUDIO, which is presently at version 16.3.
Vendor-specific alterations
The OpenFlight format permits inclusion of vendor-specific data fields, which can result in partial compatibility issues among various simulation and modeling software.