Health.mil Exostosis 3-D Model Component

What I contributed

• Built a custom Sitecore component still in use on Health.mil.
• Learned Three.js to create the interactive 3-D ear model experience requested by the client.
• Hosted and served dozens of .glb model files on Health.mil, a high-traffic site with millions of users.
• Made the feature usable on all devices so patients and doctors could pull out phones or tablets to reference the diagrams in real-life day-to-day situations.
• Enabled home access so patients could view and share the 3-D images with family and friends.
• Allowed users to download each .glb file directly to their own computer, displaying the file size dynamically for each page and file.
• Created a loading bar that showed the percentage of file loaded so users with slower connections knew the page had not frozen.
• Integrated the component into the Sitecore CMS workflow so content editors could manage and publish it.

Context

While working for Intellidyne LLC in 2023, I was asked to build a custom Sitecore component for Health.mil that could display an interactive 3-D ear model. The component needed to load reliably inside the existing Sitecore environment, serve millions of users, and give patients, doctors, and families a clear, explorable view of exostosis anatomy.

Approach

I built the component as a custom Sitecore rendering using JavaScript and Three.js. I had to learn Three.js to deliver what the client requested, then find a way to host dozens of .glb files on Health.mil so each model could be served efficiently to a very large audience. The model loads inline on the page, keeping the surrounding Health.mil layout and navigation intact while giving visitors a focused, interactive anatomy visualization.

Accessibility & reach

The feature was designed to work on all devices so patients and doctors could pull out a phone or tablet to reference the diagrams in real-life, day-to-day situations. Patients could also access the 3-D images from home to share with family and friends, extending the educational value beyond the clinic.

Downloads & loading feedback

Users can download each .glb file directly to their own computer if needed. I made sure to display the file size dynamically, specific to each page and file, so users knew exactly what they were downloading. Because the model files could be large, I also created a loading bar that displayed the percentage loaded, giving users with slower connection speeds clear feedback that something was happening and the page had not frozen.

Outcome

The component remains in use on Health.mil, supporting patient education and clinical reference content for the Hearing Center of Excellence.

Note on contribution

Developed while employed at Intellidyne LLC. The 3-D model asset, page copy, and surrounding Health.mil branding were supplied by the client or partner teams.