The Benefits of 3D Modeling

3D modeling is beneficial for those instances in which we will benefit from seeing a physical object in a solid form. For this reason, 2D models cannot justify the results required from observing the model.

Medical surgery has come a long way, with the use of 3D models. Modern surgical tools have implemented schematics which include a 3D model of the body, showing the surgeon precisely where to create an incision or the exact location of a tumor that is to be excised. An x-ray, which uses 2D features and techniques, will not have this gravity throughout the surgery process, and can yield, at best, an estimation of where to cut.

If we think back to chemistry class, and the models in the textbook and in the classroom of the 3D representations of molecules, this is more than likely one of the most memorable influences that many students have faced when interaction with 3D models. Researcher, students, teachers and professors alike have benefited from the creation of 3D models.

Property development companies require 3D models of developments for planning committees, zoning, architects, and designers and most important, to pre-sell the properties before the buildings have been completed. Customers purchase the property based on the models alone, justifying the importance of creating accurate and concise 3D models, which can be rendered in the form of a tour of the unit.

Without 3D models and the rendering and animation of these models we would not have advanced graphics within video games and animated films. Not only are 3D models beneficial for entertainment purposes, but for teaching and instruction techniques, such as a 3D model rendered, to show the process of digestion within the human body. These 3D models engage the viewer and offer unique interaction that cannot be found in a 2D model.

Of course, there are always going to be objects that have shown better results when they are visualized in a 2D space, these are: the traditional x-ray, and perspective drawings.

The Many Features of Rendering

Within the rendering process of a 3D model, how are these models brought to life through the process of animation and then created through photo realistic techniques to become characters in the films and games that we, as consumers, have become familiar with? Through the powerful process of rendering, we can create characters, ready for film, that encompasses lifelike qualities – and here are the features that assist artists through this process.

The main qualities of rendering include: shading, texture and bump mapping, fogging, shadows, soft-shadows, reflection, transparency, refraction and reflection, depth of field, motion blur as well as non-photorealistic rendering. Although these techniques may seem confusing, once an artist has become familiar with photorealistic techniques and 3D rendering software programs, they will come to realize that it takes many of these features combined to create a successfully rendered 3D model.

Shading is an important part of a rendered model, as it gives light within the color and creates the appearance of shadows on a model, creating a lifelike appearance. It determines how the color and brightness of the surface of the model will interact with the lighting within the scene.

Texture and bump mapping give distinctive properties to the surface of the model and can create textures such as cloth, skin, or even liquid. Texture mapping is applied to surfaces on a large scale, and bump mapping to a much smaller scale, even as small as a pixel.

Fogging and shadows are both ways of playing with the light in a scene, and how it will interact with the 3D model. Fogging will create a dimming effect of the light through the atmosphere, and can create intense low-light features.

Inserting a reflection into an object allows the surface to appear mirrored, such as a surface of a window, piece of glass, or even something shiny within the scene. Transparency and translucency, all determine how light and other objects will pass through certain parts within the scene. This is also important in the creation of windows, and glass.

Determining the depth of field within the scene of a 3D model means that an object such as the character will be in motion, and aspects or scenery in the background may appear to blur. Motion blur has the same effect when high speed or motion of the camera is simulated within the rendering programs.

Objects within the scene can be changed to appear as if they have been created manually, through the use of painting or drawing. These are referred to as non-photorealistic features, as they are drastically different from the features which are most often used.

Using these effects in conjunction with each allow scenes to be set that are realistic, believable or whimsical, depending on the degree to which feature is used.

Rendering a 3D Model

The process of 3D rendering allows the artist to generate a picture of the model, after it has been completed. This image is created by using specific aspects of the model, such as: texture, lighting and the shading of the 3D model. The results of this rendered object will create a final product, a product that the consumer is going to be most familiar with.

3D rendering refers to the animation of giving life to a static 3D model. Through the rendering process, animations are created by using computer software to give life to the model through photorealistic techniques. 3D rendering is actually the final process of creating a 3D animation through five basic techniques.

There are two rendering techniques, real time vs. non real time. The difference between the two effective rendering techniques is the speed in which the objects are shown within the scene. Real time renderings occur at a range of twenty to one-hundred twenty frames per second, where non-real time renderings occur much slower, and are suitable for feature films, and movies.

Depending on the complexity of the model that has been created, the rendering process can be very expensive. Rendered models are often created in pieces, by different artists working for the same company, on the same production and then pieced together using graphics software.

Rendering is also used during video to calculate the final effects, or to edit the video file through the creation process. It allows the artist to view the final project, before it has been completed, creating a valuable tool in the video game and animated film design industry. Through the video rendering systems, multiple images must be created, and rendered together to create the final image, which has resulted from one 3D model. Interestingly, the films that we have become familiar with are the result of static 3D models brought through the rendering process.

3D Modeling in the Medical Field

Creating organs through 3D modeling is the most common form of 3D models that are evident in the medical field. Most are less aware of the 3D modeling processes used in software for plastic surgeons. This software allows the user to input specific information and specific measurements to change, form, and model the shape within the software program.

On the first visit to a plastic surgeon, the doctor may ask which part of the body that the patient is concerned about. From this point, the doctor will create a treatment plan, or plan of action, to determine how the size, or shape of the body part will be changed. From this point, measurements will be taken of the patient, and the specific body parts in proportion to others and these figures will be implemented into the computer, allowing for an accurate 3D model to be created for the specific body type.

Although one model is used throughout the process, it is important to remember that the model remains the same throughout the process, only the dimensions of the model are changed. For this reason, the 3D model must be versatile, and ever changing with each patient.

Most medical software programs of this type a shell for the 3D model, rather than creating the inside of the patient. This information is not going to be pertinent as an example to the patient.

Some elite software programs allow the user to upload a picture into the system, after which a model is created within the program, from the information found in the file. From this information, the 3D model can be manipulated to suit the needs of the patient, and the guidelines of the procedure in which the doctor has elected to complete.

These are complex and expensive systems that require constant information updates, and rely on the basis that the 3D model created must be as similar to the patient as possible.

3D Ultrasound Technology

3D modeling technology has opened the doors to a variety of technological developments, especially in the medical field. One of these forms of technology, the 3D ultrasound, has become available to a wide variety of ultrasound laboratories throughout the country. This is a useful diagnostic tool in the management of pregnancy from the first to third trimester as now, we can determine much more than the sex of the baby, through non-invasive procedures.

In the past, this type of technology may have seemed impossible, but based on the technology that has been developed through the use of 3D models and 3D animation – we are able to transfer this media into health and diagnostic procedures in a variety of medical fields.

Through the miracles of 3D ultrasound, parents are able to view a video of the child within the womb, have color pictures and determine the sex of the baby, more effective and accurate than ever before. How does this 3D technology work? The waves, or beams within the ultrasound are reflected from the baby, back to the transducer and these waves project the image onto the screen, giving the image and the video of the baby within the womb. This technology can determine any abnormalities, as well as the age and size of the body.

The benefits of 3D ultrasounds, is that the waves used to look inside the body to determine the sex, health and size of the baby are non-invasive. These waves have been proven to not harm the baby inside in the womb, as well as providing no harm to the mother.

3D ultrasounds range in a variety of prices from $129.00-$400.00 depending on the location, and packages chosen at the laboratory location. Although many types of packages are available, even the most basic of packages enable premium features like a video of the baby in the womb, and 3D photos of the baby.

3D Model Animation – Setting up the Scene

Setting up the scene for the process of 3D model rendering which will animate the model are crucial to define how the model will interact with the scene in which it is placed. Some of our favorite animated films that are created with 3D models use thousands of hours of animations and techniques in lighting, shaping and shadowing of the model.

What supplies are needed to arrange these 3D models? Lights and cameras are two of the most essential elements in creating the scene for the animation of a 3D model. These elements work together to take a static 3d model into an animation with a personality, a life and the ability to interact with the scene.

Lighting has the ability to create shadows. When it comes to 3D models, shadows have two purposes. The first purpose is to give the animated model depth, and two, to anchor the model to the ground. The lighting can change the way that we perceive an object, and even change the visual appearance – through this perceived change.

Although the surface changes occur before the rendering of the model, lighting and shadows have the ability to change the appearance. Although rendering software allows the modeler to change the color or styles o the surface during rendering, most surfaces should be defined before the rendering process. Throughout the rendering process, textures can be changed with the implementation of a technique called texture mapping. Texture mapping allows the use of 2D techniques while applying bumps, color, or different textures to the surface of the 3D model. Texture mapping is only one of the many options we have throughout the rendering process of a 3D model.

When the model is placed within the scene to be animated, they are moving within the scene, most often, rather than the scene moving around the 3D model. Animation may occur within the 3D modeling programs, or in other animation programs, but creates the characters that we have come to know and love.

How to Profit from 3D Model Creation

A single 3D model can demand thousands of dollars in profit when sold to graphics or design companies. For a 3D model to command such a high price it must be highly accurate and lifelike.
Creating polygonal models has shown to be more profitable than creating other types of 3D models such as b-spline or NURBs 3D models. This being said, many buyers of 3D models take into account that NURBs models can be transitioned into polygonal models, but it is not possible to create a NURB model from a polygonal 3D model.

There are high market values for models that are lifelike – whether they are human models, organ models or models of household items or furniture. These 3D models are necessary within video games and other animations.

These lifelike models can take extensive periods of time to complete and therefore it is important to focus on specific aspects of the model. For example, when making a model of a popular vehicle, create the exterior of the vehicle first, but overlook parts of the vehicle that are not going to be required – such as the engine, or trunk.

In order for the artist to reach high earnings levels they must have an eye for detail and the know-how, and skill to create these highly specialized 3D models. Detail and versatility are the keys to selling designs in the 3D model business. When companies purchase models for thousands of dollars, they expect the models to transition into different formats with ease. Creating models that can transition easily yields more income than a static 3D model.
For these reasons, details such as texture should be avoided as many companies employ individuals that can add on this texture. As well, when an artist adds texture to a 3D model it can make the model hard to transition into other forms.

Using Maya to Create 3D Models

3D models created with NURBs method of modeling allow the user to use this program, Maya, to create adequate 3D models. This popular system uses Node based software that has been developed from the wave front explorer program. This program, written in C++ and is popular within many groups of 3D modelers, amateur and professional.

Artists have access to the latest 2009 version, released recently and can create models through the following three modeling methods: NURBS, polygon, and subdivision surfaces. Using these three modeling types allow the user to create a variety of models, using the most beneficial form to create these models.

Four types of animation are available while using the Maya software: key frame animation, nonlinear animation, path animation and motion capture animation. The artists are able to set constraints within the program, as well as use full form bodily movements with the creation of a skeleton. The benefits of programs such as these are the lifelike qualities that the models entail upon completion. Processes such as deforming, skinning, or using kinematics enable the user to create a diverse range of movement within the models, and diverse model creations.

Experts like Maya because of the capability to use a variety of rendering platforms throughout the process. Processes can be integrated from other programs, or even created by the user to increase the capabilities of the program. This capability are defined by the open render API, and is the sole reason that third party programs may be used to create the rendering systems.

When Incorporating difficult surface upon the 3D models is simpler when using the 3D modeling software program called Maya. With easy techniques to create hair, fur, or textiles – the user can integrate these surfaces with ease. Fluid effects such as smoke, water, or other elements within the environment are easily created as well, just adding to the popularity of the program.

Profiting from 3D Model Creation

There are many forums, websites and e-commerce organizations on the internet that enable profit from the creation of 3D models. For this reason, a good 3D modeler has many viable career options, from freelance to working with motor companies to create models of their latest vehicles. Through these forums, freelance work may be obtained on a regular basis. The ranges of pay in these freelance jobs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Should you choose a career as a freelance 3D modeler? It has been known that some 3D models have sold for as much as several thousand dollars. For some, this might seem like a payday, but for the artist who has spent countless hours creating each and every square inch of the 3D model to scale; this is viable for the fruits of their labor.

Is it feasible to become a freelance 3D modeler? Consider that the more intricate the design of the model, the more that the model will demand in the market. For example, a model of a table might yield $10.00 but a model of a specific model, make and design of a popular furniture designers might yield a hundred times that much. What is the point? It is important to remember that the more intricate and rare the 3D model creation, the more money that the artists will receive for the model.

What kinds of companies employ creators of 3D models? From motor companies, to video game designers to real estate development companies, there are uses for 3D model designers throughout the nation. It is important to remember that versatility is essential when developing a modeling portfolio and this strong portfolio will open doors to 3D modeling jobs of greater levels. Versatility to work with many programs, but to specialize in one design, as this could create ongoing employment with the right company.

The Market of 3D Models

There is a vast market for the sale of 3D models, textures which can be applied to the surface of these 3D models and scripts to perform applications within the 3D modeling programs. Forums, marketplaces and websites exist for the sole purpose of connection 3D modelers with those that want to purchase the 3D models for video games, films and other creative projects, and designs.

There are many ways that the modeler can create multiple profits from the creation of one 3D model. By selling the same model to multiple customers for this variety of purposes, artists are able to earn more money for each model that has been created in the past. Not only do the artists benefit from this venture, but the companies as well, as pre-made content is quicker to purchase, as it doesn’t have to enter the creation process, and comes at a lower price! The customer is allowed to use the model, but the artist retains the rights to the model, therefore the fee being paid to the artist is for usage, rather than purpose.

Many times, an artist will create a collection of 3D models of a similar theme, such as items found within a home, or items pertaining to vehicle construction. These collections are than sold as a set, on a CD or within a database of 3D models. These can lead to ongoing employment with clients requesting additional series for use in upcoming projects. After the client purchases the disc of 3D models they are able to upload the series into their database or animation programs to finally implement into the project.

Markets which purchase these discs range from computer video games, and other video game platforms, animated films, and computer generated graphics for design firms, and real estate. For this reason, artists have ongoing work – so long as there are being projects created!

Sources of 3D Models

There are two main sources of 3D models, those which are created within 3D software programs and those which are inputted into the computer through the use of photos, and are created with traditional artistry techniques such as sculpture with clay, or some of other 3D modeling form. These images are then scanned into the computer through the use of intricate scanning software that can detect the qualities of the image, and a model is created through the use of 3D modeling software programs. These two main sources of 3D models are the most popular methods of incorporating models into the software systems.

Procedural modeling is used to create plants, landscape and forms of architecture within the environment. This modeling is created through the use of database and line systems created within specific 3D model creation software. Algorithms are used to store data within the computer system, which essentially creates the formats needed to craft these models. Many times, when it is too cumbersome to create 3D models, these methods are used to create the model within a program.

There is a program referred to as a physics engine, which artists use to create behaviors of the models within a certain space. These types of engines are used to create anything from video games to movies. 3D modelers can create real-time models of the bodily movements required in these types of renderings through 3D models. It is important to have an understanding of basic principles of physics to understand how these physics engines work, and create models through the system.

Particle models are popularly created to craft 3D models which require the soft touches of the human body, or organic models. We need to use particle models, so the bodies do not become deformed throughout the 3D modeling process. Each type of3D model has a specific method in which they work best to create, for this reason – experience in the field creates the most experience model creators.

About 3D Modeling Methods

There are three methods used to create 3D models. Although these methods are considerably different, there are many similar aspects through the creation process. It is hard to say which technique is preferred, as it would depend on the 3D modeler, but polygonal modeling processes come as the easiest to render, and NURBS models are the most detailed. In between these two, we have spline modeling, which incorporates the techniques of both modeling methods.

The first type of 3D modeling which is spline modeling which falls right in the middle of the three forms of modeling. It is between NURBS modeling and spline modeling as it uses techniques of both, and implements curved lines to create the functional3D models. When it comes to the rendering process, the spline modeling method is second easiest to convert, making it a popular choice for modelers.

The second type of 3D modeling, polygon modeling uses points within the 3D space referred to as vertices, which are connected by lines – that work together to create a 3D mesh. Many modelers prefer this type, as they are very flexible, and the models can be rendered quicker than other forms of modeling. This means, that they can be made to move within a background, as the cells can be transitioned quite easily. Many, many polygons create a 3D model in this type of modeling. The majority of models that are built are built through this method, because of the flexibility that comes with polygonal modeling.

Lastly, the third type of 3D modeling is, NURBS Modeling and has grown in popularity, not only because of the effective procedures, but because of the transformation can occur throughout the process, making NURBS models some of the most versatile. Using the NURBS method of modeling creates curves with weighted points on the vertices of the model. It is preferred for detailed surfaces, as it creates actual curves, not tiny lines in a curve like appearance such as other types.

3D Models and Their Uses

3D or three dimensional models are used for a variety of purposes. Surgeons and filmmakers are only two of the many professions that use 3D models on a regular basis. 3D models are created by mapping various coordinates in a 3D space.

Medical professionals use detailed 3D models of organs to teach medical students, outline and plan surgical intervention as well as demonstrate procedures to students and patients. Plastic surgeons use detailed software to create 3D models of the body to demonstrate a “before and after” to the potential patient.

There are two types of 3D models: Solid and Shell. Solid models define the volume of the 3D model are solid, such as piece of stone. Solid 3D models may be used in many engineering models. They are used for simulations that are non-visual. Shell 3D models are more diverse and contain the outer layer, and represent the surface of a 3D model. Shell 3D models are used within filmmaking and video game creation to allow the user to manipulate the model as needed.



3D models have many benefits over traditional 2D models, such as: the flexibility that is offered with the use of 3D models – we can change angles, or create animated imaged much quicker than using two dimensional models. 3D models combined with software enable us to make instant calculations. This is one of the reasons why 3D models are increasing in popularity with earth scientists and engineers. Lastly, 3D models allow us to have a concise picture of an object which allows for higher levels of accuracy when building, designing or figuring. Additionally, 3D models have the benefit of becoming easily animated to see all facets of a structure or object. It is this feature, the ability of 3D models to be turned on a sphere, from the middle point that has increased the functionality of the renderings.

3D Model use in Graphic Design

3D models are used widely in graphic designs that contain 3D animations. A graphic is created by a coordination of points on a chart. A model does not become a graphic until it has been visually displayed by animation and rendering.

There are three parts to creating a 3D model within a graphic design. First, 3D modeling occurs in which a shape is given to an object using the coordination points. These points are graphed onto a chart. In the case of graphic designs, the majority of models will be shell models which can be easily manipulated for size and shape.

Next, layout and animations occur which give can give movement to the object within its scene. Next comes the process of rendering, rendering the 3D object refers to creation of images from that particular object. This particular step gives the spacing between the image and the scene in which it is found it with by special measurements. Layout determines how the object is going to move over time, and if any change will occur within the object.

Rendering is the process in which the animation is taken from a 3D model to a graphic. It includes the visualization of an image that can be manipulated with style or light. Rendering has two basic processes: these are, scattering and transport. Scattering defines how the surface of the object will interact with the light and transport defines the process of how light will get to one place or another.

There are two ways that a 3D image can be implemented into a software program. It can be created by the program, or another design program, or the image can be scanned into the computer with scanning software.

After a model has been rendered, it is easily transformed to 2D to ease the editing process, but the process of creating a 3D model from a 2D means the three step creation process must occur; (modeling, layout and rendering).

3D Model Use in the Medical Field

More than likely, the most familiar 3D model in the medical field can be seen on a visit to the local Doctor’s office. Within that office there are 3D structures of organs, from the heart and lungs to the digestive or skeletal system. These models are used for teaching anatomy or medical students, or used to demonstrate abnormality, disease or procedures to patients. Although the organs lie inside the body, the 3D models give the patient an opportunity to visualize the organ in the correct manner.

Software has made it possible for surgeons to create surgical plans, and be assisted throughout the procedure. Specific software renders 3D images of the organs that are to be operated upon.
These medical 3D models are accurate in size and shape but some also in detail – even texture. The models are created as similar to organs as possible. This feature allows surgeons to learn, before assisting with a procedure on a human body, to know the feel of an organ. Specific textures and materials are used to create 3D heart models, as the heart is certainly not made from hard plastic.

Some specialists, such as plastic surgeons render 3D models to allow the patient to visualize the results of specific surgeries. In this process, a picture is taken of the patient, or, a personalized 3D model is created through the use of software based on specific measurements and coordinates to create the desired changes, and visualize these changes – instantly!

3D models have become valuable teaching tools. Many websites allow the user the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the inner working of organ through 3D models. These models are beneficial to students in a secondary school level, all the way to students in a Medical Doctor program. The accuracy is pristine and the renderings allow familiarity, and are easier to learn than a two dimensional image on a page.

Polygon Meshes and their Uses in 3D Modeling

Polygon mesh is a collection of vertices and edges that make up the surface of the shell of the polygon model. Modeling processes use simplified surfaces allow rendering to occur with ease, as the simple surfaces can be transformed to move the way that the artist would like. A complete structure not only requires surfaces, but edges, polygons and vertices.

There are six aspects of mesh modeling, these include: vertices, edges, faces, polygons, surfaces and vertexes. These aspects become combined to create the polygon mesh that can be molded to the perspective of the artist. One or all of these aspects may be incorporated into the 3D model to create a full structure, which can be rendered.

A polygon is a set of faces on the mesh of the model. Faces are the different sides of the model, closed portions of the 3D model. Surfaces are the outside area of the model, and polygons are the shape of the model, as a whole – they assist in smoothing the outside of the model. Lastly, the vertices are points in the model used to coordinate faces and edges.

There are six ways that a polygon model may be represented. These are; face-vertex meshes, which are a simplified list of vertices and a list of polygons. Winged edge meshes refer to one of the heaviest of polygon representations and use two vertices, and two edges. Half edge meshes are similar to winged-edge meshes, using half of the information. Corner table meshes are the easiest meshes to convert, and the lightest but can be difficult to use, using a table to map the vertices. Quad-edge meshes use only half edges on the surface mesh. Vertex to vertex meshes is the simplest mesh to form, and are a primitive modeling form – where vertices are connected only to other vertices.

The Utah Teapot – the First 3D Model

The Utah Teapot is an integral part of the 3D model history and creation. For this reason, we recognize it as one of the first 3D models. Did you know that the Utah Teapot has been present in a variety of animated films which incorporate 3D models? The teapot appears solid, convex, and cylindrical throughout the teapot.

It was created at the University of Utah for the modeling and graphic design program, and has moved its way to becoming a standard reference in the world of 3D models. At its time, it was thought to be a complex 3D model, for the technology available at that time, after all, it was in 1975.

The cylindrical shape of the teapot meant easy translation from a rough sketch by the artist, Martin Newell, as an inspiration from his wife after she was having tea. Newell is a pioneer of the graphics program at the Utah, and sketched the teapot from eye, while sitting down to tea with his wife. After finishing the sketch, and edited the control points on the teapot. The saddle points, and the lighting used to create a shadow around the teapot, increase the illusion of the teapot being a real item.

Decades later, the teapot remained the inspiration for many 3D models, of different renditions and textures. Free versions of the teapot are available all over the internet, in the many different renditions. Although many free 3D models are available on the internet, the Utah teapot is available as one of the first models, and lead to the development of other household goods, and models.