Many industries now use software than can render 3D images on a computer. Designers use the various functions to create virtual models that can be easily changed, tested and examined from any angle. This type of software can also be used to create animation where the 3D models can move through a 3D environment. With the advances in software technology there are now 3D programs simple enough for use by the average computer user as well as high end programs used in movies, games, manufacturing and science.
Identification
All 3D design software uses a mesh to create 3D images. The mesh is a geometric image that appears on the screen. Using the tools provided, the initial meshes could appear as a box or sphere. High end programs have more generic meshes available, such as simple cars or human figures. Using the software tools, the mesh can be changed. The overall size can be adjusted. The number of surfaces can be increased or decreased to give a more or less rounded appearance. Other features the tools can change include the texture, shading, transparency and level of reflection. Mesh corners and surfaces can be grabbed with the mouse pointer and moved to make detailed changes. Two or more mesh objects can be morphed together to create a complex image.
Features
3D design software comes with many tools and features but even the most complex programs have limitations. Because of this high end programs for studios and game companies use specially designed plug-ins that can add extra features or tools. These plug-ins can create realistic hair that appears to act like real hair--moving when touched, when the head swings or to show when the wind is blowing. Other plug-ins can simulate more realistic looking fire and water. 3D design software imports and exports files from other rendering programs or uses the plug-ins to allow the designers to get the exact images they desire.
Geography
One of the most useful features of 3D design software is the ability to look at the mesh from any angle, including from the inside. A camera feature allows designers to pick the exact angle they will use when they render the shot. Rendering is when the computer creates a picture or a film from the mesh. The 3D design software can allow the designer to program the motion of the various mesh objects while the camera simultaneously flies through the environment. This allows the action to be caught from the exact angle, direction and speed desired. This is why 3D animation gives the viewer the sensation of moving around in a real environment.
Function
Many industries use 3D design software. Almost all video games are now designed using this software because it allows the player to be immersed in the 3D world created for the game. Game programs actively render the environment that appears on the screen as the players control the mesh of the character they play. Many games also give the player control of the camera, allowing them to fly around their mesh character to see them from all angles and to see the environment they are moving through. 3D design software are also used in animation for film and television. Many special effects in live action movies are now created digitally with these types of programs. Other uses for 3D design software includes creating prototypes for industries, models of chemical compounds, mapping terrain and medical imaging.
Types
There are a number of 3D design software programs available. Programs are selected both for price and functionality. Design software ranges in price from free to several thousands of dollars. Blender is a free, open-source program that has many of the same features as some of the mid to high end 3D modeling and animation programs. 3D Studio Max is a high end program used in industry because it is compatible with AutoCAD. It is also used in game design and in movies. For users looking for less technical programs that is artist friendly Cinema 4D had many options that let users buy just the functions they desire and uses a more basic toolset that is less overwhelming. Programs such as Massive are used in movies to create crowd scenes. Each character in Massive is given an artificial intelligence so that t will interact with the other characters and environment, such as the large scale battle scenes in the Lord of the Rings series. These are just a few examples of the types of software available to designers.
Considerations
Not all 3D design software has a built in renderer. A renderer is needed to create a picture or a video from the 3D environment. Without it you always need to be running the design program to show the 3D world. Even design software with its own renderer can be compatible with other rendering programs which can allow for different functionality. For example, some renderers are much faster than others, producing the final product within minutes or hours (for complex images or videos). Other renderers give a more photorealistic look to the images.
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