3D Modeling for 3D Animation and 3D Rendering
In 3D computer animation, 3D modeling is the process of creating a wireframe representation of a three-dimensional object using special computer software. A finished 3D model is can be displayed as a two-dimensional image by rendering the model’s wireframe using in a computer software that calculates and simulates real world physical characteristics. 3D models can also be physically prototyped using 3D Printing devices.
3D Models can be produced automatically or manually. The manual 3d modeling process of preparing geometric wireframes is similar to plastic arts such as sculpting. Once the wireframe is formed, procedural colors, surfaces and textures can be applied to give the 3d model realistic surfaces. Photographs and painted or computer generated images can also be applied to the models surface to give a more real world visual appearance.
3D models portray a 3 dimensional object using a collection of points in 3D space, commonly called vertices. Vertices are typically connected by geometric triangles to create faced polygons. The face of the polygon is what is rendered as a visible surface on the 3D model. By combining hundreds and thousands of polygon faces, a 3D mesh is created.
3D models are widely used anywhere in 3D graphics. Actually, their use predates the widespread use of 3D graphics on personal computers. Many computer games used pre-rendered images of 3D models as sprites before computers could render them in real-time.
Today, 3D models are used in a wide variety of fields. The medical industry uses detailed models of organs and simulations. The movie industry uses 3D characters and objects for animated and real-life motion pictures. The video game industry uses 3D models as assets and environments for computer and video games. The science community uses 3d models for chemical compounds, theoretical simulation, and scientific grants proposals. The architecture industry uses 3D models to visualize proposed buildings and landscapes. The engineering community uses 3d models to prototype new devices, vehicles and structures. The earth science community has started to construct 3D geological models for Global positioning visualization and climate studies.
High-end authoring software like 3D Studio Max, Softimage and Maya produce striking images and animations that cannot be produced via any other method. 3D media has proven to produce superior marketing impact in comparison to traditional media.
Michael Rassel is an expert in 3D modeling and animation. He was a lead artist for Metacreation’s real-time geometry lab. Michael was also a lead artist and Producer for one of the world’s leading 3D modeling companies, Viewpoint. At Viewpoint’s NYC media production department, Michael helped the company develop it’s flagship software while focusing on producing photo-realistic 3D models, animations and interactive presentations for real-time display on the Viewpoint Media Player. Michael was honored with a 2001 Communication Award for his Viewpoint media production of Hewlett Packard’s HP Briefingroom.
Whether your medium is video, real-time, or print, Razworks has the expertise and experience to deliver the 3D modeling innovation your project demands.
