InstanceGraph¶
The InstanceGraph organizes and structures 3D data linked to a 3DSpace. It is a hierarchical tree combining:
Logical representation: How geometry is organized and rendered in a scene graph
Semantic structure: Preserving assemblies, BOMs, and part relationships from the source CAD system
The InstanceGraph enables the linking of 3D data resources for geometry visualization, allowing synchronized content across connected viewers. This enables communication between users, applications, and clients.
To learn how assembly structures and sub-assembly structures from CAD data compose into the InstanceGraph, see Graph Composition.
Structure of the InstanceGraph¶
In the hierarchical tree, nodes store metadata and transformation data and can be connected to external 3D resources. There are three types of nodes:
Root Node: The single root of the graph with no parent. It cannot hold links or transformations
Inner Node: A node with children. It may define transformations but does not reference geometries or resources directly
Leaf Node: A node without children. It can:
Define a transformation
Store geometry instances
Link to a single resource (if not the root node)
Nodes also belong to functional types (Part, Resource, Runtime) that determine which operations can be applied. For details, see Node Types & Operations.
Node Contents¶
Each node contains information including Geometry, Product Manufacturing Information (PMI), Metadata, and Layers. For detailed descriptions of these elements, please refer to 3D Data Resources.
