subject: 3D Images: The Opening Move In the Virtual World [print this page] 3D Images: The Opening Move In the Virtual World
The objects in 3D look like real ones spatially placed. Today, we can see 3D graphics in the computer games and movies. To create and present a real computer generated image like this, we have to undergo three steps.
Creating A 3D Object
This is the first step and it is to create a three dimensional shape of an object in a virtual 3D world. The object, though it does not exist, is created using computer software. It is done by using the special tools whereby the shape of the real object is scanned into a computer by using such modeling tools and procedural modeling that use a set of patterns. This modeling process can be either polygonal modeling, sculpt modeling, or NURBS modeling.
Most of these models today are built using polygonal modeling in which the points called vertices are connected using line segments to create a closed image. The polygonal models are flexible and can be interpreted easily by the computer. Sculpt modeling is the most modern method of modeling and it is quite popular these days. Under this modeling, you can use either displacement or volumetric method to create an image.
Displacement method uses a smooth surface of a linear polygon mesh and stores the vertex positions in new locations using 32 bit images. Volumetric method, on the other hand, is based on the volume element that represents a value. Both these methods are successful in creating a new topology of the object. NURBS modeling unlike polygon modeling is connecting points using curves. This type of modeling is particularly suitable for organic modeling as the curves follow the points.
3D modeling is quite popular and widely used in many fields today. Most importantly it is used in the medical field for the visual presentation of organs. It is also used in movies and computer games to create animated and real life motion pictures. The engineering and architecture industry uses it for making designs of new devices and buildings and structures.
By using this phenomena complex and complicated concepts can be simplified to give simple and easy presentations. They can be also used to convert a wide range of scientific data to very simple solutions which can be understandable easily. Since this captures the attention of the people it can be reached to the mind very easily. Hence this is widely used in academic sectors and children's education. Virtually the effects of light from all directions are used in 3D imaging.
