3D modeling is the process of creating graphics and images that appear to be in three dimensions. It is used in entertainment, medicine, and engineering. There are four main modeling methods: primitive, polygonal, NURBS, and spline and patch. Specialized software and some knowledge of computer coding are required. Maya® and 3DS Max® are popular software programs.
In the world of computer design, 3D modeling is the process of developing graphics and images that appear to be in three dimensions. The process is complicated, but generally involves connecting a set of points with various geometric data such as lines and curved surfaces with the goal of creating a wide-frame model that represents a three-dimensional object. It is popular in games, movies and other entertainment ventures, although it also has applications in medicine and engineering. In most cases it requires both specialized software and at least some knowledge of computer coding. Designers typically use one of four main modeling methods: polygon splines, primitives, nonuniform rational, or splines and patches. Choosing one method over another is usually a matter of end goals and software capabilities.
Entertainment applications
There are a great many applications for digital 3D modeling, although the video game industry is one of the most commonly recognized by many. Designers use various three-dimensional modeling methods to create realistic character models that appear on game consoles and online. The final product can be animated or inanimate, but is typically characterized by its realistic appearance and apparent depth, a far cry from the one-dimensional graphics and cartoonish animations that used to be the industry standard.
A number of films and movies also make use of 3D images. This is perhaps most evident in fully computer-generated features, but the technology also has applications in live action films. In reality, viewing this type of film in three dimensions often requires special screens or lenses, since in most cases they are filmed normally, i.e. in one dimension. Computer programmers then manipulate the film in three dimensions, which can make it feel larger and more real when ultimately watched.
In the industry
Designers also use this type of modeling in the medical field, usually to create detailed models of organs in the human body. This can be an important part of many diagnostic scans, and in many cases can prevent or at least delay things like exploratory surgery, as medical professionals can see what’s going on inside the body with great accuracy from the outside. Programs in this category are also widely used in fetal monitoring and ultrasound scans of pregnant women.
The engineering community also uses 3D computer-aided design (CAD) programs to create three-dimensional models of new devices, vehicles, and structures; everything from architectural design to urban pipeline dynamics can be brought more or less to life with 3D structuring. Not only can this help designers and planners get to grips with projects, but it can also be a good way to diagnose issues and problems before they actually arise.
primitive modeling
There are typically four modeling methods for designers to choose from. The first and most basic is known as the “primitive” modeling method. This is the simplest way to model 3D objects and involves the use of geometric bases such as cylinders, cones, cubes and spheres. The shapes here tend to be mathematically defined and precise, making it easy to work with in most cases, even for beginners. Primitive modeling is mainly used in the development of 3D models of technical applications.
Polygonal modeling
A slightly more advanced approach uses the so-called “polygonal” method. Polygonal modeling involves connecting line segments through points in a 3D space. These points in space are also known as vertices. Polygonal models are very flexible and can be rendered by a computer very quickly. However, it is not possible to create an exact curved surface using the polygonal 3D modeling technique, which limits its usefulness in certain applications.
NURBS modeling
Nonuniform rational B-spline modeling, also known as the NURBS method, is one of the best ways for developers to create truly curved smooth surfaces. Unlike polygonal modeling techniques, which can only approximate curved surfaces using many polygons, NURB modeling actually “bends” space. This style of modeling is widely used across most platforms.
Spline and patch modeling
A more advanced form of NURBS modeling is the “spline and patch” method. This type of program allows developers to use curved lines to identify and project the visible surface. It often takes longer to create and run commands in this category, but the results tend to be some of the most vivid and realistic.
Software requirements
3D modeling is usually easiest to do with software programs specifically designed for that purpose. Maya® and 3DS Max® are two examples; there are many out there. While most 3D software suites are quite expensive, there are also a number of open source programs available for free. Regardless of their specifications, most follow polygonal and NURBS modeling methods. Some also have specs for creating complicated materials like rain, clouds, and blowing sands, which typically use a particle system to make the modeling process easier. There are also some scene description languages like POV-Ray that 3D modelers often use.
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