Renewable Energy and Ecological Green 3D Models

Renewable or alternative energy 3d models are used to represent the technologies and infrastructures that aid in generating energy from Earth's natural resources. Renewable energy is sometimes called green because it can be replenished naturally.

There is a wide variety of renewable energy 3d models that are used to represent the various forms of renewable energy from Earth, which include electricity and heat generated from solar, wind, ocean, hydropower, biomass, geothermal resources, and biofuels and hydrogen derived from the Earth's renewable resources. Today, the majority of renewable energy technologies are powered by the sun.


Renewable energy involves sunlight, wind, tides and geothermal heat that result from the Earth's atmosphere system dissipating energy around the globe in the form of ocean and wind currents and solar energy.


Each form of renewable energy 3d models have their own unique characteristics which influence how and where they are used. Below are some examples of renewable energy 3d models and their uses.

Wind power

Wind power 3d models mainly consists of mechanisms such as wind turnies which convert mechanical power into electricity. Wind turbines 3d models are graphical representations of turbines that exist today in the market and also turbines that are currently in development. Wind turbines typically consists of the turbine itself, the monopile foundation, transitioner with platforms and ladders, buffers and navigation lights.



Wind turbines output power greatly depends of the wind speed, so as wind speed increases, the power output increases. When several turbines are grouped together they form a wind farm. Wind farms are located in areas where winds are stronger and more constant, such as offshore and high altitude sites.

Water Power

Water power is energy stored in the water in the form of kinetic energy, temperature differentials, and salinity gradients. Water can yield much more energy than wind, sicne is about 800 times denser than air, so this means that a flowing stream of water will potentially generate 800 times more that the equivalent flowing stream of air. There are many forms of water energy including hydroelectric energy which derives electricity from the kinetic energy from flowing rivers and oceans. Ocean energy is another form of water energy and both kinetic and thermal energy is used from the ocean marine currents and the deep sea (marine current power, tidal stream power, ocean thermal energy conversion).

Solar energy

Solar energy is light and heat from the sun. Solar radiation together with other solar resources such as wind and wave power, hydroelectricity and biofuels make up most of the renewable energy available on Earth.

Solar power provides electrical generation by means of heat engines or photovoltaics. Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert the Sun's energy directly into electrical energy. Solar panel 3d models are used to design systems that can convert sunlight into active energy.

Solar 3D models are used to represent technologies that use solar energy in a wide variety of applications including space heating and cooling through solar architecture, potable water via distillation and disinfection, daylighting, hot water, thermal energy for cooking, and high temperature process heat for industrial purposes.

Solar technologies can be active or passive depending on the way they capture, convert and distribute solar energy. Active solar tecniques convert sunlight into useful outputs while passive solar techniques use the existing solar energy to increase or reduce energy consumption, such as solar architectural structures.

Solar Architecture

Advanced solar architecture and urban planning methods are used today on green building to provide light and heating. Solar Architecture methods include orientation relative to the Sun, compact proportion (a low surface area to volume ratio), selective shading (overhangs) and thermal mass.3D models are used in solar architecture to visualize an ecological or green building before the building is built. An ecological or green building typically has a roof garden with solar cell panels, solar hot water panel and light shelves at the windows. Ecological or green building 3d models are used in animations that show how a green building utilizes solar energy to meet theits power needs.

Solar Powered Vehicles

Solar Powered Vehicles are electric vehicles powered by by solar energy. The solar energy is typically obtained from solar panels on the surface (generally, the roof) of the vehicle.


3D models are used to represent the solar powered vehicles during the design, development and marketing of the solar powered vehicles. Solar powered vehicles are currently not practical transportation devices, they can be used for research purposes and extended missions to collect scientific data over long periods of time, such as volcano plume studies, North and South Poles flights, space exploration, etc.

Geothermal energy

Geothermal energy is energy obtained by tapping the heat of the Earth itself.

Geothermal power plants are used to generate power from geothermal energy and they include dry steam, flash, and binary power plants.

3D models of a geothermal plants show the technology that generates renewable energy from Earth's core including hot underground steam or water and hot underground radiogenic granite rocks.

The Uses of 3D Architectural Visualizations in Real Estate

3D architectural visualizations are used in the development of new and existing real estate properties to aid in selling properties or leasing space in advance, visualizing how a building or structure will actually look after re-modeling, and to show the details of existing structures for maintenance, inspection, procuring, etc.

Well designed 3D architectural visualizations do sell commercial property and family homes. They will typically show the potential home buyer many details about the home that simple pictures do not show.

Also, 3D architectural visualizations allow the potential homeowners to view the property, even in the pre-construction phase. Thus, allowing any changes to be made before construction which typically saves time and money. Therefore, architectural visualizations must be appealing, accurate and have the ability to provide the home buyer an instant visualization of what an existing or future home will look like.

Very often, 3D architectural visualizations are created to be of such high accuracy, with very realistic details, that they mirror the design of the property and sometimes even the interior furnishings. You can compare the 3D models to the finished building, family home, or interior space and potentially find very few differences.


A 3D architectural visualization offers a glimpse into the interior and exterior of a building, structure, or skyscaper to see its depth, its details and its developments that are not evident from simple pictures or technical drawings. 3D archiitectural visualization are created through the same processes as 3D models, as 3D visualizations are essentially 3D models rendered and/or animated with the desired textures, lighting, effects, etc.

3D architectural visualizations are used within real estate groups to pre-sell condominiums, attached and detached houses to consumers pre-construction. With the use of 3D visualization, virtual tours can be conducted throughout the property, through each room, hallway and floor plan

How are these 3D visualizations created for real estate? First, these renderings are taken from the plans for the building, beginning from the floor plan up. The floor plans are used to create an entry point that adheres to the shape of the property. After the basic floor plan has been created, and walls have been created, the surface details are designed. These details include countertops, furniture, wall color and texture as well as any structural details.


These 3d visualization become very important marketing materials are essential when selling commercial and family properties, condos or when bidding for architectural and construction remodeling projects. The 3D models that used in the architectural visualizations are also used in promotional pamphlets and brochures.

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 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.

The Evolution of 3d Modeling

3-D modeling has not always been high-tech software, and detailed mathematical equations. Today, when you hear the phrase “3-D modeling” you may think of teams of men in glasses with specialized degrees, sitting behind giant computer screens computing intricate shapes and designs. Though this is a pretty accurate description of big-name gaming and video company’s design team, this is not how 3-D modeling began.

This useful form of representing larger objects to-scale on a much smaller scale began as a hobby, and started as a way to challenge the mind. Classic pieces include model airplanes, ships, buildings, and statues/famous land marks. The first 3-D modelers of course were not given a kit to work with, and had to calculate the sizes by hand with use of mathematical equations to bring the object to be modeled down to the desired size. Its use in the business world was soon discovered after the industrial revolution, and began as a representation of building structures, giving potential companies a physical means of presenting and altering ideas.

Today, 3-D modeling has been adapted to meet the needs of digital designers in the fields of movie making, video and PC gaming, and various other professions such as sign designers, and modern construction companies. All of these industries rely greatly on their teams of designers, and use computer programs and high tech machinery to carry out their ideas, and apply them to the work field. Though you can still find the die-hard manual 3D model enthusiast, 3-d modeling has come a far way from being just a favorite pass-time

An Introduction to Spline Modeling

A spline is defined as a special function involving polynomials in the mathematics realm. It can also be used to describe an alternative way to figure interpolation problems, and is an easier less governed function than polynomial interpolation. For those not familiar (or interested) in mathematics, the term spline may be more familiar as it pertains to computer science.

In this field, and subfields thereof, the term spline is frequently refers to as a parametric curve. The simplicity of their construction makes them a popular choice when designing digital models and their interactive curve design allows for easy manipulation. The word “spline” is adapted from the shipbuilding term that describes the flexible tools used by draftsmen and ship builders to easily draw accurate shapes. This simple concept has proven to be a reliable tool in the world of computer science.

Splines can be used in either one dimensional, or multi-dimensional applications, and are used in a wide variety of functions. They can be used to smooth dimension, or for the interpolation of these data dimensions. Smoothing splines aid with “cleaning up the rough edges” of 3D models, and are a vital part of quality designs.

3D modeling

3D Modeling is the creation, manipulation, and storage of geometric objects to represent objects that are all around us or virtual objects. The process of 3d modeling begins with the use of specialized 3d modeling software. The 3D artist develops a mathematical, wireframe representation of the object using specialized software. The final product is called a 3D model.

The 3d modeling process for 3D computer graphics is similar to sculpting. During this process geometric data is manipulated and prepared manually or automatically. There are three methods for creating and representing a 3d model. They are: polygonal 3d modeling, NURBS 3d modeling, and Splines and Patched 3d modeling.

Polygonal 3D modeling uses vertices that are connected to form a polygonal mesh. Because they are polygonal, curved surfaces are approximated by using many small flat surfaces. The vast majority of 3D models today are built as textured polygonal models, because they are the most flexible and quickest for the computer to handle. Polygonal 3d models can be categorized as high polygonal and low polygonal models depending on the density of the polygonal mesh. Low poly 3d models are preferred for 3d games and simulations as they tend to require less computing power.

NURBS 3d modeling uses NURBS surfaces. NURBS are truly smooth surfaces, not approximations using small flat surfaces, like polygonal 3d modeling. They are best suited for complex forms and organic modeling. NURBS surfaces are defined geometrically by spline curves, which in turn are influenced by weighted control points. The curve follows these weight control points, so increasing the weight of a point will pull the curve closer to that point and vice-versa.

Splines and Patches 3D modeling depend on curved lines to define the visible surface. When using this method the 3d modeling stage consists of shaping individual objects that are later used in the scene. There are a number of techniques including: constructive solid geometry, implicit surfaces, and subdivision surfaces.

Modeling can be performed by means of a dedicated 3d modeling software program or an application component or some scene description language. In some cases, there is no strict distinction between these phases; in such cases modeling is just part of the scene creation process.

Complex materials are modeled using particle systems. A Particle system is a mass of 3D coordinates which have points, polygons, texture splats, or sprites assigned to them. Materials that are modeled using particle systems include smoke, blowing sand, clouds, and liquid sprays.

Once the 3d model is done, the 3D artist may begin the process of 3D rendering for visual representation in 2D or use the 3d model for an animation. Also, the 3D model can be used for other applications including computer simulation of physical phenomena. The 3d model can also be physically created using 3D printing via rapid prototyping techniques. When 3d printing is used, the 3d object is created connecting layers of cross sections of material.


Fig.1 3D Model of International Lonestar Trailer Vehicle

Why Use 3D Images?

“A 3D digital image is worth a million words”

In today’s world, inventors need to be able to communicate their ideas in highly realistic digital formats to gain maximum exposure. They need to quickly and easily describe the benefits of their ideas to be able to license or commercialize it.

Flat Pyramid provides a competitive service where ideas/patents/designs are digitally created in 3D model to clearly communicate the features, benefits and design of the invention or idea.Studies have shown that people are more willing to commercialize or license a product if they can see how it works digitally, when not physically available for inspection.

Key Benefits of using 3D Images

• Visual representation of your idea.
• Sell your ideas faster — visually communicate product benefits and features.
• Save time & money — 3D models cost less and are ready faster than physical prototypes.

• Share your 3D model with multiple clients at a time.
• Obtain financing — improve your chances of getting investment capital by visually communicating your idea.
• Showcase your digital prototype online — post it on www.flatpyramid.com to advertise your invention and potentially sell the digital prototype worldwide.



Fig.1 3D Model of a digital prototype.

What are 3D Models?

A 3D model is a representation of any three-dimensional object using computer graphics software. A 3D Model can be displayed virtually as a 2D image through a process called 3D rendering or used in a 3D computer simulation, animation, or visualization.

Creating a 3D model is often a time consuming and an expensive process. Therefore, 3D modelers, animation and production studios, advertising agencies, architects, TV and movie production houses often save time and money by using already made 3D models from sites like FlatPyramid.com in their projects.

The 3D models on websites such as Flat Pyramid are created by highly skilled 3D modelers or artists from all over the world that use specialized 3D software, 3D plug-ins and other 3D applications to create a variety of 3D models in several 3D categories and multiple file formats, such as: 3d Studio Max, Maya, OBJ, Lightwave, Open Flight, Softimage XSI, and Cinema 4D.

Below are images of some of the popular 3D model categories:

Architecture Military People Vehicles Characters Animals Furniture more 3D model categories »


Fig.1 The Architecture 3D model category includes buildings and landmarks


Fig.2 The Military 3d model category includes military vehicles and scenes such as the Arab war town scenario.



Fig.3 The People 3d model category includes 3d model of celebrities such as Brad Pitt.



Fig.4 The Vehicle 3d model category includes automobiles such as the Audi RS4.



Fig.5 The Character 3d model category includes anime characters, monster, and creatures.


Fig.6 The Animals 3d model category includes anime characters, monster, and creatures.



Fig.7 The Furniture 3d model category includes a variety of furniture.