Chili3D is a browser-based 3D CAD application that runs entirely in the web without requiring local installation.
The tool solves the problem of accessing professional CAD capabilities online by compiling OpenCascade to WebAssembly and integrating it with Three.js for rendering. This approach delivers near-native performance while keeping the application accessible through a web browser. Users can perform full modeling workflows including sketching, boolean operations, extrusion, revolution, sweeping, lofting, and advanced editing operations like filleting and chamfering. The interface follows an office-style ribbon design with hierarchical assembly management and dynamic workplane support.
Chili3D suits teams and individuals who need CAD functionality without desktop software installation, particularly those working in collaborative or restricted environments. The tool supports industry-standard file formats including STEP, IGES, BREP, and STL for interoperability with other CAD systems. It includes a plugin system allowing runtime extension through dynamic loading, with example plugins demonstrating macro automation and visual node-based programming. The application provides measurement tools for angles, lengths, areas, and volumes, along with snapping and tracking features for precise geometric operations. Multi-language support covers Chinese, English, and Portuguese Brazilian with room for community contributions.
The project maintains active development with regular commits addressing both features and stability. The codebase is organized as a TypeScript monorepo using npm workspaces, indicating a structured approach to managing multiple interdependent packages. The tool receives ongoing refinement to its modeling capabilities, user interface responsiveness, and plugin ecosystem functionality.
