3D graphics. What are the types of computer graphics What is 3d graphics information

Many different applications are used to create computer graphics. They can be conditionally divided into the following groups:

  • Digital sculpting software (Pixologic ZBrush, Autodesk Mudbox).
  • Game engines (Unreal Engine 4, Unity 5, CryEngine 3).
  • Highly specialized applications "sharpened" for specific tasks (fluid animation - RealFlow, texture creation - Mari, etc.).
  • Universal 3D editors (Cinema 4D, 3Ds Max, Maya, Houidini, etc.).

We will analyze the first three groups in the following articles. And today we offer an overview of the universal 3D editors (Full 3D Suites).

Universal 3D editors, usually contain everything you need for CG: modeling, animation and rendering tools.

To the questions: “Which of the packages is the best? What to choose?" there are no right answers. The choice of tool depends on many factors: personal preferences of the CG artist, goals set, financial capabilities, etc.

  • functionality of the program;
  • ease of use (intuitive interface, etc.);
  • availability, price.

Most specialists use several programs at once in their work: some things are easier and faster to do in third-party applications (detailing, post-processing, simulation, etc.). So don't limit yourself to just one package. Moreover, the choice of tools today is simply huge.

Most popular 3D packages:

3 Ds Max

3Ds Max - "pioneer" among 3D editors, a very popular tool, number 1 in the choice of many beginners and advanced professionals. Leading positions in design and architectural visualization. Often used in the gaming industry.

Opportunities:

  • modeling based on polygons, splines and NURBS,
  • powerful particle system,
  • hair / wool module,
  • advanced shaders Shader FX,
  • support for new and improved mechanisms Iray and mental ray.
  • crowd animation,
  • import from Revit and SketchUp,
  • integration of compositing.

And much more.

Pros: huge functionality, many plugins and educational information.

Minuses:not so easy to learn, the "old-timer" needs serious updates.

Autodesk Maya

Maya is the industry standard for 3D graphics in film and television. Maya is popular among large studios and large-scale projects in advertising, cinema, and the game industry. The package is ideal for creating animations.

Opportunities:

  • full set of tools for NURBS and polygonal modeling;
  • powerful general and character animation tools;
  • advanced particle system;
  • maya Fur technology (creation of fur, hair, grass);
  • maya Fluid Effects technology (simulation of liquids, atmosphere);
  • a wide range of tools for creating dynamic special effects;
  • UV textures, normals and color coding;
  • multiprocessor flexible rendering.

Pros:huge functionality and capabilities.

Minuses: long and complex training, high system requirements, high price.

Cinema 4 D

Cinema 4 D - one of the best and most convenient 3D packages to date. Huge functionality: from modeling, animation, effects to "sculpting" and the BodyPaint 3D module. It has a more intuitive and user-friendly interface than 3Ds Max and Maya. It is widely used in motion design, film industry and advertising.

Opportunities:

  • polygonal and NURBS modeling;
  • BodyPaint 3D (a module for creating UV and texture maps);
  • generation and animation of objects;
  • character animation;
  • dynamics of soft and solid bodies;
  • module for creating realistic hair;
  • thinking Particles system;
  • nice built-in visualizer.

Pros:easy to learn, intuitive interface, great functionality, lots of training materials, close connection with Adobe After Effects, Houdini, etc.

Minuses:unsettled system of transition between versions.

Modo

Modois a complete product for modeling, drawing, animation and rendering. Also includes tools for sculpting and texture painting. Due to its ease of use and high performance, Modo has a reputation for being one of the fastest modeling tools. Modo is popular in advertising, game development, special effects, and architectural visualization.

Opportunities:

  • polygonal and SDS modeling;
  • modern animation tools;
  • dynamics of rigid and soft bodies;
  • drawing system;
  • fur material (fur) for creating hair, grass and fur;
  • sculpting tools;
  • fast and high quality visualization.

Pros: powerful and understandable toolkit, high performance.

Minuses:not enough information.

Side Effects Houdini

Houdini - a powerful professional package for working with 3D graphics, based on a procedural node system. Houdini is ideal for creating complex dynamics, simulations: particles, liquid, smoke, fire, natural phenomena, etc. It is also a great tool for creating impressive visual effects. The main area of \u200b\u200bapplication for Houdini is in the film industry.

Opportunities:

  • polygonal and NURBS modeling,
  • animation (key, procedural),
  • character animation,
  • particle system,
  • dynamics of hard and soft bodies, tissues, wool / hair, gases and liquids,
  • work with surround sound,
  • powerful rendering engine Mantra,
  • built-in compositing tool.

Pros:high-quality special effects and animation.

Minuses: little information, high price.

Softimage

Softimage(Autodesk Softimage, formerly Softimage / XSI) is a 3D animation and visual effects program for the game industry, film and television.

Softimage had one of the best animation systems out there. Thanks to the unique ICE system (Interactive Creative Environment - a node-based visual programming platform), the package offered wide functionality, flexibility, high performance and quality.

Opportunities:

  • powerful polygonal as well as procedural modeling in the ICE environment;
  • physics and dynamics of particles and geometry;
  • nonlinear animation;
  • autodesk Face Robot facial animation tools;
  • built-in MentalRay.

In 2008, Autodesk acquired Softimage from Avid for $ 35 million. In 2015, Autodesk announced that it would no longer sell Softimage licenses and effectively got rid of one of the strongest players in the market. The official website suggests switching to 3Ds Max or Maya.

LightWave

Lightwave 3D is a tool for 3D animation and visual effects from NewNek. It has long been the industry standard in film and television.

The new and improved LightWave 2015 package offers tremendous capabilities from dynamic modeling, character animation, visual effects to game development and architectural rendering.

Opportunities:

  • intuitive dual interface (modeler and layout);
  • powerful polygonal modeling;
  • advanced animation system;
  • particle system;
  • genoma 2 character equipment system;
  • improved rendering;
  • interactive dynamic inheritance (Interactive Dynamic Parenting);
  • flexible Bullet Dynamics system;

Pros: huge functionality, convenient dual interface.

Minuses: not so popular in our country and the CIS countries, there is little information.

Blender

This is the only free 3D package on the list, which is practically not inferior in functionality to paid applications. Blender includes tools for 3D modeling, animation, and a range of options for creating games, visual effects and sculpting. An excellent alternative to 3D animation "monsters". Thanks to the support of the Blender Foundation, the program is developing very quickly and steadily.

Opportunities:

  • polygonal modeling, splines, NURBS curves and surfaces;
  • sculpting mode;
  • particle system;
  • dynamics of hard and soft bodies: liquid, wool / hair, etc .;
  • skeletal animation;
  • built-in rendering engines and integration with third-party renderers;
  • video editor;
  • functions for creating games and applications (Game Blender).

Pros: availability, open source, cross-platform, small size (about 50 megabytes), wide functionality, the ability to create games.

Minuses: lack of documentation in the basic delivery.

So, in short:

  • 3Ds Max- computer games, interiors, visualization.
  • Maya- animation, film industry, television, clips.
  • Cinema 4D- special effects in film and television, motion design, advertising.
  • Modo- advertising, games, special effects in cinema.
  • Houdini- visual programming, special effects in cinema.
  • Softimage- animation and special effects in films, television, games.
  • LightWave- special effects in cinema, television.
  • Blender - character animation, game creation.

In conclusion, I would like to note: a 3D editor is just a tool, the potential of which can only be revealed by the designer himself, the CG artist. Having mastered one package in full, it will not be difficult to study others.

Good luck with your studies and work!

As mentioned above, according to the ways of describing images, computer graphics can be divided into three main categories: raster, vector and three-dimensional graphics. Among two-dimensional graphics, pixel and fractal graphics stand out in a special way. Three-dimensional, CGI and infographics also require separate consideration.

Pixel graphics

The term "pixel graphics" (from the English. pixel ) means a form of a digital image created on a computer using a raster graphics editor, where the image is edited at the pixel (dots) level, and the image resolution is so small that individual pixels are clearly visible.

It is a common misconception that any drawing made using bitmap editors is pixel art. This is not true, pixel image differs from the usual bitmap technology - manual editing of the picture pixel by pixel. Therefore, the pixel art is small in size, limited by the color palette and (as a rule) lack of anti-aliasing.

Pixel graphics use only the simplest tools of raster graphics editors, such as Pencil, Straight (line) or Fill (fill with color). Pixel graphics are reminiscent of mosaics and cross-stitch or beadwork - as the pattern is made up of small colored elements, similar to the pixels of modern monitors.

Fractal graphics

A fractal is an object that is formed from irregular separate parts that are similar to a whole object. Since a more detailed description of elements of a smaller scale is carried out according to a simple algorithm, such an object can be described with just a few mathematical equations.

Figure: 8.5.

Fractal graphics are indispensable for creating artificial mountains, clouds, sea waves. Thanks to fractals, complex objects are easily depicted, the images of which are similar to natural ones. Fractals allow you to describe entire classes of images, which require relatively little memory to describe in detail (Figure 8.5). On the other hand, fractals are poorly applicable to images outside of these classes.

3D graphics

Three-dimensional graphics (3D - from eng. 3 Dimensions - three dimensions) - three dimensions of the image) - a section of computer graphics, a set of techniques and tools (both software and hardware) intended for the image of volumetric objects (Fig. 8.6).

Figure: 8.6.

3D image on a plane differs from two-dimensional in that it includes the construction of a geometric projection of a three-dimensional model of the scene onto a plane (for example, a computer screen) using specialized programs (however, with the creation and implementation of 3D -displays and 3D -printers, 3D graphics do not necessarily include projection onto a plane). In this case, the model can either correspond to objects from the real world (cars, buildings, hurricane, asteroid), or be completely abstract (projection of a four-dimensional fractal).

3D modeling Is the process of creating a three-dimensional model of an object. A task 3D - modeling - to develop a volumetric image of the desired object. With the help of three-dimensional graphics, you can create an exact copy of a specific object, and develop a new, even unrealistic representation of an object that has never existed.

3D graphics operate on objects in 3D space. Usually the results are a flat image, a projection. Three-dimensional computer graphics are widely used on television, in cinematography, in computer games and in the design of printed products.

Three-dimensional graphics are actively used to create images on the plane of a screen or a printed sheet in science and industry (for example, in design automation systems (CAD)); for the creation of solid elements: buildings, machine parts, mechanisms), architectural visualization (this includes the so-called "virtual archeology"), in modern medical visualization systems.

3D graphics typically deal with a virtual, imaginary three-dimensional space that is displayed on a flat, two-dimensional surface of a display or sheet of paper. Any image on the monitor, due to the plane of the latter, becomes a raster, since the monitor is a matrix, it consists of columns and rows. Three-dimensional graphics exist only in our imagination - what we see on the monitor is a projection of a three-dimensional figure, and we are already creating the space. Thus, visualization of graphics can only be raster and vector, and the rendering method is only a raster (a set of pixels), the way of defining the image depends on the number of these pixels.

Currently, several methods of displaying three-dimensional information in three-dimensional form are known, although most of them represent three-dimensional characteristics very conditionally, since they work with a stereo image. From this area, you can note stereo glasses, virtual helmets, 3D -displays capable of displaying a three-dimensional image.

-graphic arts

The term "CGI graphics" (eng. computergenerated imagery refers to computer generated images) refers to still and moving images generated using 3D computer graphics and used in visual arts, print, cinematic special effects, television, and simulations. PC games usually use real-time computer graphics, but CGI-based in-game videos are added periodically.

Moving images are created by computer animation, which is a narrower area of \u200b\u200bCGI graphics, also applicable in cinema, where it allows you to create effects that cannot be obtained using traditional makeup and animatronics. Computer animation can replace the work of stuntmen and extras, as well as scenery.

Infographics

The term "infographics" (from lat. informatio - notification, explanation, presentation; and other Greek. graphike - written, from grapho - writing) denote a graphical way of presenting information, data and knowledge.

The range of applications for infographics is huge - geography, journalism, education, statistics, technical texts. It helps not only to organize large amounts of information, but also to more clearly show the relationship of objects and facts in time and space, as well as to demonstrate trends.

Infographics can be called any combination of text and graphics, created with the intention of presenting a particular story, to convey this or that fact. Infographics work where you need to show the device and algorithm of something, the relationship of objects and facts in time and space, demonstrate a trend, show what it looks like, organize large amounts of information.

Infographics are visual representations of information. Used where complex information needs to be presented quickly and clearly.

  • Animatronics - a technique used in cinematography, animation, computer modeling to create special effects of moving artificial parts of the human body, animal or other objects.

3D modeling and visualization are essential for the production of products or their packaging, as well as for prototyping products and creating volumetric animation.

Thus, 3D modeling and visualization services are provided when:

  • an assessment of the physical and technical features of the product is needed even before its creation in the original size, material and configuration;
  • it is necessary to create a 3D model of the future interior.

In such cases, you will definitely have to resort to the services of specialists in the field of 3D modeling and visualization.

3D models - an integral part of high-quality presentations and technical documentation, as well as - the basis for creating a product prototype. A feature of our company is the ability to carry out a full cycle of work to create a realistic 3D object: from modeling to prototyping. Since all work can be carried out in a complex, this significantly reduces the time and costs for finding performers and setting new technical specifications.

If we are talking about a product, we will help you launch a trial batch and set up further production, small-scale or industrial scale.

Definition of the concepts of "3D-modeling" and "visualization"

3D graphicsor 3D modeling - computer graphics, combining techniques and tools necessary to create three-dimensional objects in a tech-dimensional space.

Techniques should be understood as ways of forming a three-dimensional graphic object - calculating its parameters, drawing a "skeleton" or a volumetric non-detailed form; extrusion, building and cutting of parts, etc.

And under the tools are professional 3D modeling programs. First of all - SolidWork, ProEngineering, 3DMAX, as well as some other programs for volumetric visualization of objects and space.

Volume renderingis the creation of a two-dimensional raster image based on the constructed 3d model. At its core, it is the most realistic image of a three-dimensional graphic object.

Applications of 3D modeling:

  • Advertising and marketing

Three-dimensional graphics are indispensable for the presentation of the future product. In order to start production, you need to draw and then create a 3D model of the object. And, already on the basis of a 3D model, using rapid prototyping technologies (3D printing, milling, molding of silicone molds, etc.), a realistic prototype (sample) of a future product is created.

After rendering (3D visualization), the resulting image can be used in the development of packaging design or in the creation of outdoor advertising, POS materials and design of exhibition stands.

  • Urban planning

With the help of three-dimensional graphics, the most realistic modeling of urban architecture and landscapes is achieved - with minimal costs. Visualization of building architecture and landscape design allows investors and architects to experience the effect of being in the designed space. This allows you to objectively assess the advantages of the project and eliminate the shortcomings.

  • Industry

It is impossible to imagine modern production without pre-production modeling of products. With the advent of 3D technologies, manufacturers have been able to significantly save materials and reduce financial costs for engineering design. Using 3D modeling, graphic designers create 3D images of parts and objects, which can later be used to create molds and object prototypes.

  • Computer games

3D technology has been used in the creation of computer games for more than ten years. In professional programs, experienced specialists manually draw three-dimensional landscapes, hero models, animate created 3D objects and characters, and also create concept art (concept designs).

  • Cinema

The entire modern film industry is focused on 3D cinema. For such filming, special cameras are used that can shoot in 3D. In addition, individual objects and full-fledged landscapes are created using 3D graphics for the film industry.

  • Architecture and interior design

The technology of 3D modeling in architecture has long proven itself from the best side. Today, the creation of a three-dimensional model of a building is an indispensable design attribute. Based on the 3d model, you can create a prototype of the building. Moreover, as a prototype, repeating only the general outlines of the building, and a detailed prefabricated model of the future structure.

As for the interior design, with the help of 3d-modeling technology, the customer can see how his home or office space will look after the renovation.

  • Animation

With the help of 3D graphics, you can create an animated character, "make" him move, and also, by designing complex animation scenes, create a full-fledged animated video.

Stages of developing a 3D model

The development of a 3D model is carried out in several stages:

1. Modeling or creating model geometry

It is about creating a three-dimensional geometric model without taking into account the physical properties of the object. Used as techniques:

  • extrusion;
  • modifiers;
  • polygonal modeling;
  • rotation.

2. Object texturing

The level of realism of the future model directly depends on the choice of materials when creating textures. Professional programs for working with three-dimensional graphics are practically unlimited in the possibilities for creating a realistic picture.

3. Setting up light and vantage points

One of the most difficult stages in creating a 3D model. After all, the realistic perception of the image directly depends on the choice of the tone of the light, the level of brightness, sharpness and depth of shadows. In addition, it is necessary to select a point of observation for the object. This can be a bird's-eye view or scaling the space to achieve the effect of being in it - by choosing a view of the object from a height of human growth.

4. 3D rendering or rendering

The final stage of 3D modeling. It consists in detailing the display settings of the 3D model. That is, the addition of graphic special effects such as glare, fog, glare, etc. In the case of video rendering, the exact parameters of 3D animation of characters, details, landscapes, etc. are determined. (time of color drops, glow, etc.).

At the same stage, visualization settings are detailed: the required number of frames per second and the extension of the final video are selected (for example, DivX, AVI, Cinepak, Indeo, MPEG-1, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, WMV, etc.). If it is necessary to obtain a two-dimensional raster image, the format and resolution of the image is determined, mainly - JPEG, TIFF or RAW.

5. Postproduction

Processing captured images and videos using media editors - Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premier Pro (or Final Cut Pro / Sony Vegas), GarageBand, Imovie, Adobe After Effects Pro, Adobe Illustrator, Samplitude, SoundForge, Wavelab, etc.

Post-production is to give media files original visual effects, the purpose of which is to excite the mind of a potential consumer: to impress, arouse interest and be remembered for a long time!

3D modeling in foundry

In foundry, 3D modeling is gradually becoming an indispensable technological component of the product creation process. If we are talking about casting into metal molds, then 3D models of such molds are created using 3D modeling technologies, as well as 3D prototyping.

But no less popular today is casting in silicone molds. In this case, 3D modeling and visualization will help you create a prototype of an object, on the basis of which a form will be made from silicone or other material (wood, polyurethane, aluminum, etc.).

3D rendering techniques (rendering)

1. Rasterization.

One of the simplest rendering methods. When using it, additional visual effects are not taken into account (for example, the color and shadow of an object relative to the point of view).

2. Raycasting.

The 3D model is viewed from a specific, predetermined point - from the height of human growth, bird's eye view, etc. From the point of view, rays are sent that determine the light and shade of the object when it is viewed in the usual 2D format.

3. Ray tracing.

This rendering method implies that, when it hits the surface, the ray is divided into three components: reflected, shadow and refracted. This is what actually forms the color of the pixel. In addition, the realism of the image directly depends on the number of divisions.

4. Path tracing.

One of the most difficult 3D visualization techniques. When using this method of 3D rendering, the propagation of light rays is as close as possible to the physical laws of light propagation. This is what ensures the high realism of the final image. It should be noted that this method is resource intensive.

Our company will provide you with a full range of services in the field of 3D modeling and visualization. We have all the technical capabilities to create 3D models of varying complexity. We also have extensive experience in 3d visualization and modeling, which you can see for yourself by examining our portfolio, or our other works that have not yet been presented on the site (upon request).

Brand agency KOLOROwill provide you with services for the release of a trial series of products or its small-scale production. To do this, our specialists will create the most realistic 3D model of the object you need (packaging, logo, character, 3D sample of any product, casting mold, etc.), on the basis of which a product prototype will be created. The cost of our work directly depends on the complexity of the 3D modeling object and is discussed on an individual basis.

Three-dimensional graphics are now firmly entrenched in our lives, and sometimes we do not even pay attention to its manifestations.

Looking at a billboard with a picture of the interior of a room or a commercial about ice cream, watching the shots of an action-packed film, we do not even realize that all this is the painstaking work of the master of 3d graphics.

3D graphics are

3D graphics (3D graphics) is a special type of computer graphics - a set of methods and tools used to create images of 3D objects (three-dimensional objects).

It is not difficult to distinguish a 3D image from a two-dimensional one, since it includes the creation of a geometric projection of a 3D model of a scene onto a plane using specialized software products. The resulting model can be an object from reality, for example, a model of a house, car, comet, or it can be completely abstract. The process of building such a three-dimensional model is named and is aimed primarily at creating a visual volumetric image of the modeled object.

Today, based on three-dimensional graphics, you can create a high-precision copy of a real object, create something new, and bring to life the most unrealistic design ideas.

3d graphics technologies and 3d printing technologies have penetrated into many spheres of human activity, and bring enormous profits.

Three-dimensional images bombard us every day on television, in movies, when working with a computer and in 3D games, from billboards, visually representing the power and achievements of 3D graphics.

Achievements of modern 3D graphics are used in the following industries

  1. Cinematography and animation - creation of three-dimensional characters and realistic special effects . Creation of computer games - development of 3d characters, virtual reality of the environment, 3d objects for games.
  2. Advertising - the possibilities of 3d graphics allow you to profitably present the product to the market, with the help of three-dimensional graphics you can create the illusion of a crystal-snow-white shirt or an appetizing fruit ice cream with chocolate chips, etc. At the same time, in real life, the advertised product may have many flaws that are easily hidden behind beautiful and high-quality images.
  3. Interior design - design and development of interior design is also not complete today without three-dimensional graphics. 3D technologies make it possible to create realistic 3D models of furniture (sofa, armchair, chair, chest of drawers, etc.), accurately repeating the geometry of the object and creating an imitation of the material. With the help of three-dimensional graphics, you can create a video showing all the floors of a projected building, which may not have even begun to be built.

Steps for creating a 3D image


In order to get a 3D image of an object, you need to follow these steps

  1. Modeling - construction of a mathematical 3D model of the general scene and its objects.
  2. Texturing includes applying textures to generated models, setting materials and making models realistic.
  3. Lighting setup.
  4. (moving objects).
  5. Rendering - the process of creating an image of an object from a previously created model.
  6. Compositing or compositing - post-processing of the resulting image.

Modeling - creation of a virtual space and objects within it, includes the creation of various geometries, materials, light sources, virtual cameras, additional special effects.

The most common 3D modeling software products are: Autodesk 3D max, Pixologic Zbrush, Blender.

Texturing is an overlay on the surface of the created three-dimensional model of a raster or vector image that allows you to display the properties and material of the object.


Lighting - creating, setting the direction and setting up light sources in the created scene. Graphic 3D editors, as a rule, use the following types of light sources: spot light (diverging rays), omni light (omni-directional light), directional light (parallel rays), etc. Some editors provide the ability to create a source of volumetric glow (Sphere light).