Overview on Various Types of 3D Modeling Techniques

3DModeling:AnOverviewofVariousTechniques

3D modeling and animations are widely used in several industries including video game development, movies, publishing, architecture, medical science, geology, etc. Various types of 3D modeling techniques have found widespread applications in diverse industries, thereby unlocking numerous design possibilities. In this article, we have discussed different types of 3D modeling techniques that are used to create different types of 3D models for diverse purposes. Before we discuss the techniques, let us first try to understand what 3D modeling is and how it is used in various industries.

What is 3D Modeling?

3D modeling is the process of creating three dimensional images or graphics for representing real objects and surfaces. The representation is usually done mathematically by manipulating the points in a virtual space. These points, technically known to be vertices, are used to form a mesh, which gives the shape of an object.

This box modeling technique is a type of polygonal modeling, in which the artist uses a geometric shape, like a cube, cylinder or sphere, and shapes it until the intended appearance is achieved. Themodelerscarryouttheprocessindifferentstages.Theystartwithalow resolutionmeshand then refine the shape. Then they divide the mesh further, ensuring that the hard edges are smoothed out and the necessary details are added. They repeat the process of refining and subdividing till enough polygonal detail is present in the mesh, which can convey the desired concept. Box modeling is one of the most common polygonal 3D techniques and is used in combinationwiththeedgemodelingones.

» Contour/Edge modeling

Edge modeling is another type of polygonal technique, although it is different from box technique. In this process, the modelers develop the model piece by piece, instead of refining a primitive shape This is done by placing the loops of polygons along the outlines and filling the gaps that lie between them. This process is applied as it is difficult to complete certain meshes through the box modeling technique For instance, the human face cannot be completed only through this method. In that case, you can collaborate with one of the reputed modeling companies to get these models designed. Experts can help you leverage the potential of 3D modeling technology with dexterity and develop the desired models

» Spline/NURBS modeling

This nurbs modeling technique is extensively used in the industrial and automotive industries. A NURBS mesh does not have any edge, face or vertices. These models come with surfaces that can be interpreted smoothly. The modelers can develop the concept by lofting a mesh between the splines. NURBS curves are developed using a tool, similar to the pen tool used in Adobe Photoshop or MS Paint. The modelers draw the curve in the 3D space and edit them by moving the control vertices, which is a series of handles. The curves are to be placed along prominent contours and the space between them is automatically interpolated by the 3D modeling programs. Alternatively, you can also create a NURBS curve using a profile curve, revolving it around a central axis. This is one of the most extensively used 3D model design techniques used to develop objects such as vases, wine glassesandplates.

» Subdivision modeling

Subdivision modeling is created by mixing polygonal and NURBS modeling techniques. In this hybrid process, a polygon model helps in creating 3D models, which are then converted into sub division models. The artist enjoys control over the refinement of the 3D model in certain areas. Besides, you can use diverse software to work on these models The polygon needs to be subdivided and refined until the details are clear. With greater subdivision, the surface becomes smoother.

» Digital sculpting

The tech industry has adopted various 3D modeling processes that they refer to as disruptive technologies. The experts use advanced 3D modeling software to develop these models. The automobile industry has also evolved with these technologies finding their applications in product development and marketing. Digital sculpting is a type of disruptive technology and it has leveraged the 3D modeling process to a great extent. The modelers now need not carry out the painstaking constraints of edge flow and topography. This enables them to design different types of 3D models in a way similar to the process of sculpting digital clay.

Here, the meshes are organically created. A tablet device is used to shape the model, just like a sculptor uses a brush on chunks of clay. With digital sculpting, creature and character sculpting has reached new levels. The modelers can carry out the process much faster and with greater efficiency. The artists can work with high resolution meshes containing millions of polygons.

» Modular modeling

Keeping modularity in mind is a good idea while creating a 3D asset. While modeling multiple buildings that look similar, we should think about modularity. This is the best practice which can even go far to model different sections of the building and helps in rearranging different ways to create variation.

» Kitbashing

Kitbashing is used to detail an object made with different types of modeling.

It is a type of modeling which starts with the objects kit combined into more detailed objects. This technique is commonly used while creating objects with a hard surface and helps explore how different pieces could fit together even before the construction starts. This technique is an excellent way to detail a scene. Three things to be kept in mind while using this technique are the ratio of high, mid, and low frequency detail.

» Photogrammetry

A completely different way of creating 3D models using a camera. Photographing an object multiple times from different angles in a perfect lighting condition and then feeding those images into a program interpreting them and generating a 3D object representation. We get real world data, meaning whatever we create is close to realism. This technique is a relatively new invention that gained a lot of traction. Using drones, we can photograph the whole area and recreate larger structures.

» Procedural modeling

Procedural modeling refers to the 3D design process of generating models algorithmically. Unlike

other processes, these are not created manually by the artist. In this process, the objects and scenes are developed on the basis of user-defined parameters or rules. In various environment modeling packages, the modelers can create entire landscapes by modifying the parameters like elevation range and foliage density. They can also choose from landscapes such as coastal areas, desert or alpine. These 3D modeling methods are also implemented for creating 3D models for games.

The procedural modeling technique is extensively used in organic objects such as foliage and trees, where the complexity and variations are more infinite. These models are extremely difficult to draw by hand. These objects can further be tweaked through various editable settings. For instance, you can change the density of branches, height of tree trunks, and curls and angles, as per your needs

» Image-based modeling

In image based modeling, 3D objects are derived algorithmically from a set of 2D images that are static in nature This type of technique is used in cases where the modeler faces budgetary or time restrictions and are not able to develop fully realized 3D images. This is one of the most commonly used techniques in the film industry. Over the years, image-based modeling is increasingly being used in the entertainment industry.

» Surface modeling

Surface modeling helps in creating a 3D spline The process involves the incorporation of 2D spline,anditisdifferentfromNURBS.Thismethodisprimarilyusedtogenerateorganic3Dmodels in films. It offers a good amount of flexibility to the modelers. They can easily create a 3D representationwithvariousrequirements,usingcurvesorsurfaces.

» Boolean modeling

In this 3D modeling technique, the shape of an object is created with the help of two objects. The geometry is either created by combining two objects or cutting out one from the other. It can also be created with negative intersection space. Boolean modeling helps in creating 3D shapes that take time to create with other techniques. For example, bent and circular shapes can be combined with hard surfaced or square ones to create a new shape. The technique is however not so popular in the entertainment industry.

» Laser scanning

Laser scanning was introduced as a 3D modeling method due to the pronounced advancements of thistechnology.Here,alaserisusedtoscanareallifeobjectandmeasureitsgeometryforcreating a3Dmodelrepresentation.Theprocessiseasyandquick,anditdoesnotrequirephysicaltouching oftheobjectstotaketheexactmeasurements Oncethemeasurementsaretaken,youcandevelop a digital model with the help of the 3D imaging software. However, you do need to clean up the geometrybeforeyoustartusingit.

Evidently, advanced 3D modeling techniques are being used in various industries, and companies are collaborating with reputed service providers for dedicated support. In case you need 3D modeling services, reach out to us with your requirements.

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