From architectural visualizations to computer games, three-dimensional images have made their way into our lives. 3D images show three-dimensional figures, and the process of creating them is 3D modeling with the help of computer programs. It is becoming increasingly popular due to the fact that projects carried out by this method, become much more visual and realistic than conventional drawings and two-dimensional models.
A 3D model is a three-dimensional figure in space created in a special program. As a rule, drawings, photos, pictures and detailed descriptions are taken as a basis, on the basis of which specialists create a virtual model.
Creation of 3D model
Creation of a 3D model of an object is carried out with the help of 3D modeling. At the first stage of 3D modeling, information is collected: sketches, drawings, photos and videos, drawings, often even using a finished product sample – in general, everything that will help to understand the appearance and structure of the object. Based on the information obtained, 3D-modeller or 3D-designer creates a three-dimensional model in a special computer program. Once the model is made, it can be viewed from any angle, zoom in, zoom out, make the necessary adjustments. The model itself is ready for further use – printing on a 3D printer, 3D milling on CNC machines or any other prototyping method.
If it is necessary to obtain images for visibility to clients and consumers, for advertising spots or for presentation, then it is necessary to perform visualization – creation of a virtual computer model in the final form. Visualization involves the selection and adjustment of materials, textures, lighting, shadows, external environmental conditions. After all the settings, the final calculation, the so-called rendering, is carried out.
Types and levels of 3D models
There are several types of three-dimensional models:
- polygonal model;
- NURBS surfaces.
The latter have a higher level of accuracy, so they are most often used by engineers, mechanical engineers and architects. Polygonal models, on the other hand, are more commonly used to create 3D images in animation, cinematography, and computer games. They consist of numerous simple geometric shapes, which are also called primitives.
In addition, there are three types of 3D modeling:
- wireframe modeling;
- surface modeling;
- solid modeling.
The first of these, the simplest type, is wireframe modeling. The models obtained by creating this type of reproduction will be called wireframes or wireframes. They consist of lines, arcs and segments. Images of this type do not convey full information about the object: neither about the volume, nor about the structure of the surface from such a model is impossible to learn, but you can study its structure and functionality. The main advantage of frame modeling is that the storage of three-dimensional models created by this method does not require a lot of computer memory. Most often, wireframe visualization is used in specialized programs to build the expected trajectory of a device or tool.
The second type of 3D modeling is surface modeling. In contrast to frame modeling, here there are not only segments, lines and arcs, but also surfaces forming the contour of the displayed object.
Well, the last, the most accurate and reliable type of 3D-modeling, is called solid modeling. As a result of its use, you can get a real sample of the finished object, which conveys all the data about it. The model created through this method of visualization contains lines, faces, texture, and data about the volume and mass of the body. Although the images take up the largest amount of computer memory compared to the rest, it completely describes the finished object. Solid-state modeling is used everywhere: in the creation of machinery, industrial parts, furniture, jewelry, movies, and computer games.
Due to the fact that 3D models are used in almost all spheres of our life, we can distinguish four levels of complexity of volumetric images:
- The first, the simplest, does not contain information about the structure and small details of the object, such as glasses and simple frames.
- The second, slightly more complex level contains more detailed information about the model. This level can include drawers, tables and other simple items.
- Furniture sets and home appliances can be classified as the third level because of the numerous small details and complex heterogeneous structure.
- Well, the fourth is most often used by engineers, examples of three-dimensional models of this level can be models of machine tools, cars and other complex machinery.
All levels of the model correlate with types of 3D modeling as well, so the first two are wireframe, the third is surface, and the fourth is solid modeling.
Components of a 3D model
A three-dimensional model consists of a set of points that are connected by faces to form polygons.
A vertex is a point that has its coordinates in the three-dimensional system, i.e. X, Y, Z. It gets its name because it is the extreme point of a flat polygon, or polygon.
An edge, or edge, is a segment that connects two vertices, a concept taken again from geometry. In three-dimensional graphics, an edge is a polygon bounding box.
The basic component in three-dimensional graphics is considered to be a polygon – a flat polygon, the set of which forms a three-dimensional figure. Absolutely any figure will be built from numerous simple figures (and most editors use triangles and quadrilaterals). The more simple figures there are in a complex figure, the smoother the surface of the 3D model will appear (so-called high-polygonal modeling).
The aggregate of polygons carries information about the size and shape of the 3D model, and the selected texture allows you to convey reliable information about the appearance of the object and represents the image on the surface of the figure.
Popular 3D modeling software
Software that allows you to engage in three-dimensional modeling is very diverse. There are both commercial and open (free) products. The first ones include 3ds Max, Modo, LightWave 3D, which today can be called the leaders in the field of 3D modeling. Blender and Wings3D are worth mentioning among freeware products.
The list of 3D modeling software is growing very fast. Companies, in order to win more consumers, create different programs that meet different specifications and will suit any 3D modeler. So, for example, Autodesk has already released to the world 4 software products for 3D modeling: 3d max, Maya, Softimage, Mudbox.
For industrial 3Dmodeling, engineers most often use 3DMAX, SolidWork, and ProEngineering.
Other popular 3D modeling products include Rhino, 3Delight, Sculptris, ZBrush, Houdini, Cinema 4d, LuxRender and others.
KOLORO company is engaged in 3Dmodeling of objects of different complexity, creation of 3D characters, object and product visualization. We will create you high-quality accurate models, which will be fully functional and ready for further use – prototype model production.
Based on the model we can create reverse molds for casting or produce a small batch for you (e.g. for souvenirs and device housings).
To order a service for 3D modeling, 3D printing or small batch production, you just need to call us at tel. 057-760-26-05 or 099-618-87-50. If you have a ready 3D-model of the object, to calculate the cost of printing on a 3D printer or making a prototype of the product send a file in STL format info@koloro.ua.
