Three.js Furniture Configurator Approach

For your furniture configurator with customizable desk modifications, there are two main approaches to consider. Let me break down the pros and cons of each method to help you make an informed decision.

Option 1: Single GLB with All Modifications

Pros:

• Initial Loading: One-time loading means users don't experience delays when switching between options
• Memory Efficiency: Shared materials and geometries are automatically optimized
• Simpler State Management: All options are already loaded, so you just toggle visibility
• Network Efficiency: Fewer HTTP requests (important for performance)

Cons:

• Larger Initial Download: Users must download everything upfront, even options they may never use
• More Complex File Management: Your single file becomes more complex to maintain as options grow
• Memory Usage: All assets remain in memory, even unused ones

Option 2: Separate GLB Files Loaded Dynamically

Pros:

• Smaller Initial Load: Users only download what they need initially
• Better Maintainability: Each component can be updated independently
• Memory Optimization: Only load what's needed, potentially saving memory
• Easier Scalability: Adding new options doesn't require modifying existing files

Cons:

• Loading Delays: Users experience wait times when selecting new options
• More HTTP Requests: Can impact performance, especially on slower connections
• More Complex Code: Need to manage loading, caching, and unloading of assets

Recommended Approach

Based on your requirements for performance, maintenance, and scalability, I recommend a hybrid approach:

1. Core Components in One File: Include the base desk and most common modifications in a single GLB
2. Separate Files for Less Common Options: Load rarer or larger modifications on demand
3. Implement Asset Caching: Use the GLTFLoader to cache loaded components

Here's a basic implementation pattern:

JAVASCRIPTCopied
// Set up a cache for loaded models
const modelCache = {};

// Function to load a model with caching
function loadModel(path) {
    if (modelCache[path]) {
        return Promise.resolve(modelCache[path].clone());
    }
    
    return new Promise((resolve) => {
        const loader = new THREE.GLTFLoader();
        loader.load(path, (gltf) => {
            modelCache[path] = gltf.scene;
            resolve(gltf.scene.clone());
        });
    });
}

// Example usage in your configurator
async function updateDeskPart(partType, optionId) {
    // Remove current part if it exists
    if (currentParts[partType]) {
        scene.remove(currentParts[partType]);
    }
    
    // Load and add the new part
    const model = await loadModel(`models/desk_${partType}_${optionId}.glb`);
    scene.add(model);
    currentParts[partType] = model;
    
    // Update the scene
    renderer.render(scene, camera);
}

This approach gives you the best balance between initial load time, performance during configuration, and maintainability as your product grows.

For even better performance, consider using the DRACOLoader with GLTFLoader for compressed models, which can significantly reduce file sizes.