3D Modeling
BackgroundThree dimensional modeling is the act of creating virtual models inside a virtual canvas on a computer screen. This is three dimensional because the computer creates the illusion of depth by calculating how the shape of the object changes as the perspective changes. Additional clues like shadow, highlights, and texture can further convince the mind that there is depth.
3D Editing
Here are a list of basic editing techniques for 3D modeling:
Below is a model created by the author - click and drag to move around. Vulcan Head by SteedMaker on Sketchfab ModelingModeling is the act of creating objects in virtual space. Many applications can work with both hard edges (e.g. architectural building) or organic edges (soft edges). One can start with a primitive object like a box or a sphere and extend the polygons, edges or points in a variety of ways to extend the shape or refine it to a desired shape. This resource is not meant to be a tutorial but the following videos will provide some sense as to how this happens.
The image below is an example of a figure modeled in a 3D application:
3D PaintingIt is possible to paint on 3D virtual objects. One can move the object around in virtual space and paint and or texture the object from that perspective. See the links below for video illustrating this:
TerminologyMesh: data in a 3D model made up of faces
Faces: made up of edges typically triangles Vertex: where the edges of faces meet RenderingRendering 3D elements is the creation of an image based on the the 3D model. The rendering takes into account the textures, environment, lights, shadows, reflections, specular highlights, etc. This can create a realistic or even a surrealistic representation of the object. This image below is the same model as above illustrated in the Modeling section, this is the rendered version:
3D Modeling in EducationBelow are videos demonstrating how 3D model creation can be integrated into the curriculum:
How can 3D modeling be used for educational purposes? That is really up to the imagination of the instructor. Most teachers will look at a tool like this and think, what kinds of topics can I teach using this tool? That is the wrong question. A better question is, can students use 3D tools for representing their ideas? The value of the tool is that it provides students an avenue to express ideas in new, dynamic, and motivating ways. It is the building of models, planning, and thinking through the process that has potential for learning. Students that model their ideas are able to reflect on those portrayals and it provides a platform for discussion with peers while giving instructors a unique perspective on student thinking (Steed, 2001).
There are many abstract concepts that are difficult to understand by reading or hearing a verbal description. Some of those difficult concepts are visual-spatial in nature and lend themselves to 3D representations. Here are illustrative themes that might lend themselves to constructing understanding with 3D modeling:
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PurposeModeling objects in a virtual 3D world give the illusion of reality to objects otherwise available only to the imagination. 3D models can be rendered and shared and made available for further manipulation, prototype design, art creation and augmenting video or photographs. 3D models can also be made into physical artifacts with 3D printing. See the following section for more on this topic:
Illustrative ExampleDescribing how an object moves through space might be difficult to visualize. For instance, I can explain that a planet moves around the sun in an elliptical orbit. Assuming you understood the terms planet, space, ellipse and orbit, you might be able to conjure up a mental projection. If you haven't had physical or visual experience with these terms, it might be difficult. Even then, the words are problematic in that the mental image might be quite different from the referent (the object you are referring to) because the information is ambiguous. The listener has to assume the size and relative distance between the objects, the shape of an ellipse in relation to the location of the objects, the speed of the orbit, whether or not the planet is rotating on its axis, the color and shape of the planet and sun, and so forth. Yes, it is possible to painstakingly describe this in verbal terms but the problem with this is that it is sequential and by the time you get to the end of the explanation, the audience may have forgotten some aspect of the description or not understood an important element. Much of this ambiguity can be overcome when a 3D animation is viewed. A 3D animation comes through our visual sensory system simultaneously so it is there and activates knowledge immediately. Animation activates knowledge structures that might not be activated without the visual portrayal.
For instance, look at the following Figure, it is a model of a spider created in 3D modeling application. What would it take to linguistically describe this creature?
Examples ApplicationsConsider the following links to examples where 3D modeling is used for understanding:
Tools3D modeling and rendering applications tend to have a steep learning curve. It is not for the faint of heart but the results can be stunning. However, it is possible to learn the basics quite quickly. Below is a list of a few of the tools categorized by type: Modelling Tutorial:
Solid modelling is a kind of CAD work flow. These tools make it easier to create manifold objects. This is a good option for beginners.
Mesh modeling manipulates surfaces. These tools give you more control of edges, surfaces and vertices. Designed more for organic forms.
Modelling for Young Kids
Parametric modelling allows you to create a model based on a set of parameters that the user submits. (Eg. a wheel or pulley - Project Shapeshifter, thingiverse parametric generators)
3D programming:
The link below is to an application for learning how to program a computer using 3D to motivate and provide visual feedback:
Sources of 3D Models
RenderingOnce you have a model created, it can be rendered out as an image as defined by the environment and virtual camera of your modelling program.
IllustrationsThe following slideshow illustrates rendered models created in 3D Modelling applications:
Slideshow 3D Models (1)
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References
Steed, M. B. (2001). 3D visualization: using 3D software to represent curricular concepts. Learning and Leading with Technology, 22(3), November. (editor reviewed) 3D Visualization.pdf