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
Which Modeling Method is best?
Though there are many questions as to whether or not there is one way to create a 3D model
as opposed to another,the answer lies within each person’s applicable knowledge,preferred
method of design,and preference to computer software. There are three main types of 3-D
design that are used today,and are considered the most popular methods used by graphics
design divisions in companies.
The first of these is referred to as “Polygonal modeling”,this methods uses linearly
connected vertexes to create polygonal mesh that form the object. The majority of 3D models
today are created using this method,as it is quick,flexible,and easy for the computer to
process data input. The only disadvantage of this form of 3-D modeling is that all objects
are made of tiny flat surfaces;even the curved shapes are approximated using flat surfaces.
The second method of 3-D modeling is called “NURBS”modeling. This type of modeling uses
spline curves to create the appearance of life-like objects,and is put in place with the
use of weighted control points. The most popular program that uses this form of design is
called “Maya”and is well known commercial software. The surfaces created by NURBS are truly
smooth,and though it is slightly more difficult than other methods,it creates a perfect
system for organic 3-D modeling.
Splines and Patches modeling is very similar to NURBS and is also dependant on curved lines
to define shape. It is between NURBS and Polygonal in its ease of use,and utilizes modeling
techniques that have similarities to both. All three of these 3-D modeling methods have
their advantages and disadvantages,and are dependent on the designer and their use for
specific projects
About the Author
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