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3D artists and designers use specialized techniques and technologies such as 3D design, rendering, rendering, and animation. These tools enable them to turn ideas into digital graphics on the screen. When it comes to transforming 3D images into physical objects – especially through 3D printing – 3D modeling technologies come into play.
3d modeling services by 3Nitro is much more about logistics than other aspects of 3D design, since the result of this process is not the final product, such as an image of a three-dimensional object, but its mathematical model, which describes the structure of the object.
What is 3D Modeling?
3D modeling is a combination of mathematics, geometry and design. Using special programs, you can create files that are instructions for 3D printers. The work of these programs is comparable to that of a sculptor, architect or builder – they demonstrate how an object will be created. If a drawing is a two-dimensional representation of a building, then a model is its three-dimensional layout, which provides a mathematical description of the object’s surfaces. In special programs, 3D designers create files that describe the position of points in space – in such models, many geometric shapes are involved. Ultimately, polygons and curves make up a 3D object.
There are two main types of 3D models: CAD models for the automated design system and polygon meshes, which define the shape and surface of an object. A CAD model can be thought of as a set of actions for creating an object – at the same time, individual actions can be changed without rewriting the entire file. A polygon mesh (or mesh) is an image of the surface of an object that really resembles a mesh wrapped around it.
How is 3D modeling different from 3D graphics and rendering?
3D modeling and 3D design differ mainly in the end result. In the case of 3D graphics, the result is a 2D image, rendering of a 3D object, or animation such as a photograph of an object. On the other hand, in 3D, the result is a technical file that can be used as a guide to create a real item. Simply put, 3D is used to describe the process of creating an object, while 3D rendering is used to obtain an image of a finished object.
More about 3D files
STL is the most common file format that can be created with CAD programs. These files transform the design into a polygonal geometric model in three dimensions – the finished 3D object consists of triangles, edges and curves.
It is important to consider resolution settings that affect model quality, surface texture, and level of detail. The lower the resolution, the larger the triangles will appear, making the subject appear grainy and fuzzy. By increasing the resolution in 3D modeling software, you can get better quality files. Higher resolution files tend to be larger, include more detail — sometimes too much for the printer to process. It is recommended that you check your printer’s manual to create suitable files. More on https://www.treenitro.com/3d-visualization/3d-exterior-services/3d-exterior-rendering-services/
Making 3D models using 3D printing
Today, 3D printing is becoming more and more affordable – whether it’s 3D printing services, renting a 3D printer, or buying your own device. With 3D printing, users can quickly and inexpensively produce one-of-a-kind prototypes.
Industrial designers use 3D printers to create and test prototype models. With 3D printing, they can quickly bring their ideas to life by creating real objects. This approach allows you to test prototypes and immediately make changes, which significantly speeds up and reduces the cost of the process of introducing innovations compared to traditional production methods.
Because printers accurately reproduce the 3D model by dividing it into layers, the design must meet certain requirements. 3D objects have three axes, height, width, and depth. Thus, the 3D must have x, y and z coordinates.
Given the variety of software, printers and materials, it is difficult to choose a one-stop solution for 3D printing models. Many factors must be taken into account, for example:
- requirements for the mechanical properties of the material;
- weight;
- design features.
The choice of material and method of 3D printing can affect the design – for example, some parts will need support, others will need to be rounded pouring.