Various Types of 3D Modeling for All your Creative Needs
When it comes to naming an integral element that is required for every creative sphere, it is 3D modeling. Be it an animator, architect, interior designer, or an engineer, everybody relies on this technology for bringing their ideas to life. With it, they can effectively plan and carry out their design work without worrying about mistakes or construction disasters. It not just improves the coordination and productivity of 3D modelers but also acts as an efficient communication tool for them and the end-users. Besides, it is capable of cutting down costs while speeding up the whole production process. Because of the various advantages it offers, it is highly in demand in the creative industry.
In this article, we have provided a brief overview regarding what it is, the different types it has, and where it is used so that it easier for you to grasp. Therefore, this article can be really beneficial to someone who is looking to enter into the world of 3D model creation. Apart from that, individuals who are just curious can also utilize it to extract a great deal of information.
Definition of 3D Modeling
3D modeling is the process of creating a three-dimensional representation of a surface or object by using computer graphics. In this process, the artist uses a specialized 3D modeling software to tweak different vertices within a virtual space to create a collection of vertices or mesh, thereby forming a 3D model. It is an integral part of many creative spheres like architecture, engineering, manufacturing, game designing, product designing, marketing, advertising, and more. It incorporates a variety of types, techniques, software programs, and workflow options that can be used by a 3D artist. The process of developing 3D models is complex and time-consuming. There is no single principle that can fit all the works, which is why it is crucial to understand where it is used, differences between its type, and methods of creation to utilizing the best type of modeling for your needs.
Where Are 3D Models Mainly Used?
The major applications of 3D models are within the following fields:
· 3D visualization and rendering of spaces that are not yet built in the real estate domain.
· Designing 3D characters, scenes, or props for video games and animated movies.
· Developing 3D garments or accessories for the beauty and fashion industry.
· Creating new products for various marketing, medicine, and technology fields.
Different Types of 3D Modeling
It is basically of 3 main types, i.e., Solid, Wireframe, and Surface. Apart from these, there are other 3D modeling types as well. However, most of them exist as a subset of those three, while others are personalized for a specific task.
1. Solid Modeling
It is used for the modeling of three-dimensional primitive shapes, like cubes, spheres, or n-sided prisms. These shapes act together like building blocks where some can add materials while others can deduct according to the inputs. When it comes to software, different programs will require different types of procedures. Some may use modifiers while working with solids, whereas others may begin with 2D sketches and then extrude it to create a 3D figure. In a few other cases, solids are added over solids to create more complex models. However, the final result of creating 3D models will be the same.
It works best with simple curves or flat surfaces with constant radii, for instance, natural things, machines, or mechanical elements, etc. A few software programs that are commonly employed for solid modeling are FreeCAD and Tinkercad for entry level, and SketchUp, Fusion 360, and SolidWorks for advanced level.
Pros:
· Low computation needs
· Mathematically correct final models
· Easy to use tools
Cons:
· Impossible to achieve the highest levels of realism while representing organic shapes.
Industries that use it:
· Publishing
· Healthcare
· Architectural design
· Advertising and marketing
2. Wire frame Modeling
Wire frame modeling mostly works with surfaces that are curved or complex. Since solid modeling might be too obtuse for a few applications, this kind of modeling can be used to tactfully handle the complex forms. However, with the increase in complexity, limitations might occur. It is usually employed to represent a network of points or vertices. Any geometric face consists of no less than 3 vertices, where each vertex is a part of either one or more faces. In order to change the shape and size of an object, you need to change each vertex’s position.
Triangles are used by several modeling tools as basic elements. It means that the more number of triangles you use, the more your models will achieve realism. The total number of triangles is often indicated as polygon count. There can be a limit to using the number of polygons for web-based software, but there is no problem when it comes to local software. Programs that allow individual tweaking of vertices are Maya, Daz 3D, Blender, etc.
Pros:
· Complex curves or surfaces can be achieved.
Cons:
· Higher computational needs.
· Requires more training for users.
Industries that use it:
· Healthcare
· Manufacturing
· Architectural design
· Entertainment
· Gaming
· Publishing
3. Surface Modeling
This is the next step you need to follow in 3D modeling if the complexity is higher with the surfaces. With surface modeling, you can achieve the shapes of the 3D models that are impossible to attain with the above two types. It is mainly implemented for professional purposes that demand flawless integration and much smoother surfaces. It depends on the guiding lines for defining a curvature or shape of a part. In complex designs like aerodynamic or thermodynamic, the flow behavior of solid shapes is highly important. Besides, the silhouette’s shape also determines the effectiveness of an element. In that case, seamless integration is essential, which is why you need to incorporate surface modeling.
Apart from guiding lines, some software also utilizes control planes or control points for defining the curves and shapes. Here, the desired surface needs to tangentially follow the planes. The use of guiding lines is not the only option. Some programs use control points or control planes, where the desired surface follows the planes tangentially. Various software that supports this type of modeling is Inventor, SolidWorks, FreeCAD, Catia, etc.
Pros:
· More complex surfaces can be created.
Cons:
· Complexity of implementing techniques.
· Needs more advanced program.
· Requires 3D designers with professional experience.
Industries that use it:
· Automotive
· Aerospace
· Gaming
· Entertainment
· Manufacturing
· Publishing
· Healthcare
· Architectural design
How to Make 3D Models?
You need to implement various techniques to create 3D models. The consistent improvisation of modern technology has enabled different techniques to evolve over time. The type of technique you need to choose will primarily depend on your creative needs, i.e., the 3D model you are creating and in which industry you are going to use it for. It can be categorized into 4 different methods, and they are:
1. Primitive Modeling
It is a rudimentary type of 3D modeling that requires the combining of various pre-existing shapes. It usually combines a variation of two shapes, be it a cube, sphere, etc. to produce the desired surface or shape. Here, the 3D modeler needs to use Boolean processors to combine the two different shapes. Apart from adding, subtraction can be done to create the object.
2. Polygonal Modeling
Here, you need to work around with X, Y, and Z coordinates to define a shape and then combine it to form a complete model. It starts with creating the wire mesh for the required shape, which will again need a good understanding of the polygonal mesh theory. Thus, only professionals can use it. The technique is commonly used for scanline rendering.
3. Non-Uniform Rational Basis Spline (NURBS) Modeling
It is popular among the 3D modelers since it can help in creating models that deliver elegance. Its functions can be implemented in various scenarios to produce realistic surfaces and curves. Another advantage of the NURBS modeling technique is that it can be operated independently so that designers do not have to completely rely on a program to create models.
4. Rational B-Spline Modeling
This technique is based on the combination and adjustment of the geometric forms. Here, the 3D designers need to start with the creation of the shape’s dimension, which will be followed by the twisting and curving to create the desired form. It is easier to learn, which is why it is suitable for both beginners as well as professionals.
From this article, it is understood that various 3D modeling types and techniques can be used for creating a 3D model. Each of them has its own advantage and is flexible enough to be interchanged by the 3D designer according to their requirements and skill sets. However, it is also true that the process can be very complex at times and will require a strong knowledge of different software and mathematical theories to get the desired results. So, in case you are a beginner, it is better to start working on customizing the pre-existing models rather than creating everything from your own. However, for complex 3D model creation, you can always take the help of companies that offer 3D modeling services. But before you associate, make sure to do all the needed research about the company to check the quality of outputs it can deliver.
