2D Versus 3D Modeling Methods..

Many times, modelers use a combination of 3D and 2D modeling techniques in the creation of a 3D model. With the combination of these methods, we receive the easy rendering processes that come with free 3D model creation, and the ease in creating models that come with 2D model creation processes.

There are three main benefits to using 3D models, rather than 2D models. One, 3D models are flexible and can be changed or animated quickly, with quicker rendering time. Rendering time refers to the amount of time that it takes to give a model life, or animate it. Which brings us to the second benefit to using 3d models, this ease of rendering allows to physically create the model, rather than having to imagine the effects? Next, the accuracy is discussed. 3D models create an accuracy that cannot be created with 2D models. If a builder or a designer is able to picture the object or design in which they are building and consult with the rendering throughout the creation process, this ensures less mistakes are going to be made in the creation of the model.

Aside from these benefits come the disadvantages of creating 3D models, these are: the difficulty and practice that it takes a model to create lifelike models. Some of these effects are difficult to learn, and techniques mean additional time spent learning the software and creating the 3D model.

The significant differences that arise between the two forms of modeling are: the space in which the object is defined, and the ability to render such things as perspective, shadow and lighting, as well as other photo realistic effects.

In some professions, such as the medical profession, 2D models have been preferred in x-rays and other diagnostic forms because of the simplification that comes with reading the results, and abstract information can be difficult to detect within 3D model , therefore making representations difficult to create, and even more difficult to read!

Spline Modeling

Spline modeling, as with each other form, begins with the shape created, that will create the bottom of the object. As well, with each other form, the method is used to create 3D objects used within video games.

Spline modeling is one of the premier types of 3D modeling, one of the most effective, which is able to create complex curves using weighted points (referred to as vertices) on a line. This line is represented as curving, because of these weighted points. 3D modelers are able to change the visualization of the line be increasing or decreasing the weight on each of the curves.

Splines and patches modeling use these curved lines to create the appearance of the surface of the Free 3D model. For this reason, spline modeling methods are best when creating organic models such as people, vehicles with sleek and curved lines, and models organs which are used in medical practices.

There are two types of models that can be created using the spline modeling techniques, solid and shell. Solid 3D models and shell 3d models differ in the fact that solid models are created like a rock, and define the structure through the interior of the 3D model. Solid models are time consuming, and require additional methods when being used. On the contrary, shell models are created to represent the surface of the object, and not the volume. Most video game models use shell type of modeling, as there is no need to define the interior volume.

Spline modeling is most similar to the second type of modeling, NURBS modeling, which also uses genuinely curved lines to create 3D models. Using these curved lines ensures that the model will truly have a genuine appearance to its inspiration. In contrast, polygonal modeling using series of tiny lines to create the appearance of a curved line, but one of the disadvantages of this type of modeling, is that the line will never really curve, regardless of the amount of lines used to create the structure.

The Utah Teapot - the First 3D Model

The Utah Teapot is an integral part of the 3D model history and creation. For this reason, we recognize it as one of the first 3D models. Did you know that the Utah Teapot has been present in a variety of animated films which incorporate 3D models? The teapot appears solid, convex, and cylindrical throughout the teapot.

It was created at the University of Utah for the modeling and graphic design program, and has moved its way to becoming a standard reference in the world of 3D models. At its time, it was thought to be a complex 3D model, for the technology available at that time, after all, it was in 1975.

The cylindrical shape of the teapot meant easy translation from a rough sketch by the artist, Martin Newell, as an inspiration from his wife after she was having tea. Newell is a pioneer of the graphics program at the Utah, and sketched the teapot from eye, while sitting down to tea with his wife. After finishing the sketch, and edited the control points on the teapot. The saddle points, and the lighting used to create a shadow around the teapot, increase the illusion of the teapot being a real item.

Decades later, the teapot remained the inspiration for many 3D models, of different renditions and textures. Free versions of the teapot are available all over the internet, in the many different renditions. Although many free 3D models are available on the internet, the Utah teapot is available as one of the first models, and lead to the development of other household goods, and models.