3D Modeling Basics

• 3D modeling is creating digital objects or surfaces using 3D modeling software.
• Basic three-dimensional model shapes include cubes, rectangles, and triangles.
• Complex, high-polygon designs are made by modifying basic shapes.

Uses of 3D Modeling

• 3D modeling is the intermediary step between concept and tangible design, used for interactive object or surface design.
• 3D modeling can test a design's structural viability.
• 3D modeling software called computer-aided design software allows designers and companies to model products before creation, increasing time and cost efficiency.

3D Modeling Basics

• Vertex: Single point and the smallest component of a 3D model.
• Edge: Straight line connecting two vertices, defining the shape.
• Polygon: Shape formed by straight lines, with types depending on sides/angles (equilateral, equiangular, regular, irregular, cyclic, convex, concave).
• Face: The space in a polygon mesh between edges.
• Mesh: Collection of polygons connected along their edges, forming a 3D object.
• Every 3D modeling program has a 3D environment navigable with vectors and planes.
• Vector: Indicates direction and orientation on 3 axes.
• Plane: Two-dimensional surface along one of 3 axes.

Low Poly Vs High Poly

• Low-poly models are polygonal meshes with few polygons used in subdivision modeling, animation, and rigging.
• Models intended for real-time engines like Unity benefit from low-poly models due to easy editing and quick performance.
• High-poly models offer more detail through a high polygon count.
• Rendering, editing, and viewpoint navigation take longer for High-poly models.

Main Types of 3D Modeling

• Solid
• Surface
• Wireframe

Solid Modeling

• Aims to produce geometrically correct solid shapes by simulating the exterior and interior.
• More complex than other methods.
• Solid modeling is helpful for creating, animating, designing, and visualizing functional models.

Surface Modeling

• Mathematically displays solid 3D objects, focusing on external aspects.
• It is easier to work with and commonly used in architectural illustrations and animations in video games.

Wireframe

• Generates a 3D model by "bending a wire" along object edges.
• This 3D model type consists of points, arcs, circles, curves, and lines.
• Object boundaries are recorded as points and connections, rather than solids.
• It is the least complex method, typically using triangles; more triangles equals higher realism.

Other 3D Modeling Options

• Sculpting: Uses sculpting brushes and tools.
• Box modeling: Transforms a primitive object like a cube or block into a model, manipulating a large portion or whole object.
• NURBS (non-uniform rational basis spline): A 3D modeling technique to generate surfaces and curves. Its flexibility and precision make it easier to generate shapes.
• NURMS (Non-Uniform Rational Mesh Smooth): Technique to smoothen meshes.
• Polygon modeling: Uses faces, edges, and vertices to edit parts of a 3D model by changing coordinates.

How Different Types of Modeling Work

• The solid modeling process starts with wireframes converted into 3D views before surfaces are added.
• Boolean operations (union, difference, and intersection) create complex designs by combining shapes.
• Pick and place modifies objects by working on edges, vertices, and surfaces, which facilitates chamfering, shelling, and drafting.
• Parametric modeling manages geometric shape by manipulating the parameters.

Surface Modeling & Sculpting

• A surface modeling process starts by defining shapes and exterior curves, and the objects are physically mathematically/geometrically incorrect.
• Flexible nature enables easy work on imported objects, deleting and replacing things like faces.

Sculpting in 3D Modeling

• Specialized 3D software uses sculpting brushes and tools.
• Sculpting uses pushing, pulling, and smoothing to form the look of a mesh.
• Sculpting begins with a basic model for surface manipulation. The first layer defines basic model features. Additional details are added in further subdivisions.
• Texturing and painting enhance realism
• Built-in and imported textures can create complicated looks.

Key Principles of 3D Modeling

• CAD programs allow 3D designers to use deformations to modify the model's surface.
• Deformation tools are good for designing the right shapes.
• Manipulation transforms existing models with transformation tools in CAD programs.
• Binary operations: Creating meshes through polygonal operations, such as intersections.
• Measurements: Enables calculating volume, surface area, cross-section, etc.

Real-World Applications of 3D Modeling

• Entertainment: Sculpting characters in films and TV using software like ZBrush, Sculptris, and SelfCAD.
• Fashion: Used to anticipate garment complications and dynamic clothing design using software like Fusion 360, and Romans CAD.
• Architecture: Used to visualize buildings with surface modeling using AutoCAD, SketchUp, and ArchiCAD.
• Publishing: Book cover and image creation.
• Gaming Industry: Games use 3D modeling for characters and scenes. Sculpting and surface modeling are the most used.
• Manufacturing: (Re)fabricating parts and improving designs.
• Medicine: Used to design prosthetics with sculpting techniques.

3D File Types

• STL: Used for 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).
• FBX: Used in film and video games to store geometry, texture, color, and appearance.
• 3DS: Stores geometry, animation, and basic appearance.
• OBJ: For 3D printing stores polygon faces, texture maps, and 3D coordinates.
• STEP: Standard product data mechanism.

Common Mistakes & Solutions in 3D Modeling

• Beginners need to plan their design appropriately and ask for help, to avoid being stuck.
• Using reference images is important.
• Beginning with simple designs avoids topology and mesh issues.
• Break down models into manageable chunks.
• Avoid excess subdivisions to preserve design quality. The resolution tool is helpful in CAD programs to help with this.
• Beginners should pay more attention to topology and avoid rough surfaces.
• Consistent practice is important.

Learn 3D modeling basics. Discover how it bridges concept and tangible design. Explore vertices, edges, polygons, faces, and meshes in creating digital objects with 3D modeling software.