3D graphics. Three-dimensional graphics 3D graphics and principles of work

This type of computer graphics has absorbed a lot from vector, as well as from raster computer graphics. It is used in the development of interior design projects, architectural objects, in advertising, in the creation of educational computer programs, video clips, visual images of parts and products in mechanical engineering, etc.

3D computer graphics allows you to create volumetric three-dimensional scenes with modeling lighting conditions and setting points of view.

To study the techniques and means of composition, such as the transfer of space, environment, light and shade, the laws of linear, air and color perspective, the advantages of this type of computer graphics over vector and raster graphics are obvious. In three-dimensional graphics, images (or characters) are modeled and moved in virtual space, in a natural environment or in an interior, and their animation allows you to see an object from any point of view, move it in an artificially created environment and space, of course, accompanied by special effects.

Three-dimensional computer graphics, like vector graphics, are object-oriented, which allows you to change both all elements of a three-dimensional scene, and each object separately. This type of computer graphics has great capabilities to support technical drawing. With the help of graphic editors of three-dimensional computer graphics, for example Autodesk 3D Studio, you can perform visual images of parts and products of mechanical engineering, as well as perform prototyping of buildings and architectural objects studied in the corresponding section of architectural and construction drawing. Along with this, graphical support can be provided for such sections of descriptive geometry as perspective, axonometric and orthogonal projections, since the principles of constructing images in three-dimensional computer graphics are partially borrowed from them.

For arts and crafts, three-dimensional computer graphics provides the ability to model future products with the transfer of the texture and texture of the materials from which these products will be made. The ability to see from any point of view the model of the product before its implementation in the material allows you to make changes and corrections to its shape or proportions, which may no longer be possible after starting work (for example, jewelry, decorative metal casting, etc.). In the same direction, 3D computer graphics can be used to support sculpture, design, art graphics, etc. Volumetric 3D animation and special effects are also created by means of 3D graphics. Creating instructional videos for educational programs can be the main application of these 3D computer graphics capabilities.

The tools for working with three-dimensional graphics include such a graphics editor as 3D Studio MAX... It is one of the most famous 3D editors and is often used in film production. Program development 3D Studio MAX was launched in 1993. Version 3D Studio МАХ 1.0was released in 1995 on the platform Windows NT.

Even then, some experts cautiously expressed the opinion that MAX can compete with other 3D graphics packages. Autumn 2003 discreet releases ЗD MAX 6... New particle animation tools in conjunction with modules allow you to create photorealistic atmospheric effects. There is built-in support for drip-mesh objects, full-fledged network visualization, data import from CAD-applications, new possibilities for modeling. But apart from 3D Studio MAX there are other, equally popular 3D modeling programs, for example Maya. Maya is an analogue program 3D Studio MAX, but it is intended primarily for animation and for conveying facial expressions on the face of a three-dimensional actor. Besides, in Maya more convenient to draw. 3D Studio MAX is aimed primarily at high-quality visualization of objects, it is also possible to perform primitive drawings in it.


In general, there are three-dimensional modeling programs for drawing, the most famous of them AutoCAD, ArhiCAD. AutoCAD is intended primarily for mechanical engineering drawing, and ArhiCAD for architectural modeling.

What does 3D graphics require from a person?

Of course, the ability to model various shapes and structures using various software tools, as well as knowledge of orthogonal (rectangular) and central projection. The latter is called perspective... Very good modeling quality is achieved through careful selection of textures and materials, combined with the correct placement of lights and cameras in the scene. The basis for the construction of any spatial form is the plane and the face of the object. A plane in 3D graphics is defined by three points connected by straight line segments.

It is this condition that makes it possible to describe using the resulting planes "Spatial grid"which represents the model of the object. Then the object is additionally assigned the characteristics of the object's surface - material. In turn, the material characterizes the quality of the surface, for example, polished, rough, shiny, etc. It also describes its texture (stone, fabric, glass, etc.). Optical properties are also set, for example, transparency, reflection or refraction of light rays, etc.
Along with this, a three-dimensional object can be set lighting conditions and select a point of view (camera) to obtain the most interesting visual image. A staging consisting of a three-dimensional object, lighting conditions and a chosen point of view is called "Three-dimensional scene"... But to describe the three-dimensional space and the object inside it, the well-known coordinate method is used.

There are various methods for modeling 3D objects. For example, the method of textual description of the model using special programming languages "Script".

3D graphics is the process of creating a volumetric model using special computer programs. This type of computer graphics has absorbed a lot of vector, as well as from raster computer graphics. Based on drawings, drawings, detailed descriptions or any other graphic or textual information, a 3D designer creates a three-dimensional image.

In a special program, the model can be viewed from all sides (top, bottom, side), embedded on any plane and in any environment. Three-dimensional computer graphics, like vector graphics, are object-oriented, which allows you to change both all elements of a three-dimensional scene, and each object separately. This type of computer graphics has great capabilities to support technical drawing. With the help of graphic editors of three-dimensional computer graphics, you can perform visual images of parts and products of mechanical engineering, as well as perform prototyping of buildings and architectural objects studied in the corresponding section of architectural and construction drawing. Along with this, graphical support can be provided for such sections of descriptive geometry as perspective, axonometric and orthogonal projections, since the principles of constructing images in three-dimensional computer graphics are partially borrowed from them.

Three-dimensional graphics can be of any complexity. You can create a simple 3D model with low detail and simplified shape. Or it can be a more complex model, in which there is a study of the smallest details, textures, professional techniques are used (shadows, reflections, light refraction, and so on). Of course, this seriously affects the cost of the finished three-dimensional model, however, it allows expanding the use of the three-dimensional model.

Where 3D graphics are applied

Three-dimensional modeling (3d graphics) today is used in many areas. Of course, first of all, this is construction. It can be a model of a future house, both a private and an apartment building or an office building, and indeed any industrial facility. In addition, visualization is actively used in interior design projects.

3D models are very popular in site building. To create a special effect, some website builders add not just graphic elements to the design, but three-dimensional models, sometimes even animated. Three-dimensional modeling programs and technologies are widely used in production, for example, in the production of cabinet furniture, and in construction, for example, to create a photorealistic design project of the future premises. Many designers have long since switched from using a ruler and pencil to modern three-dimensional computer programs. Gradually new technologies are being mastered by other companies, first of all, manufacturing and trading.

Of course, mostly 3D models are used for demonstration purposes. They are indispensable for presentations, exhibitions, and are also used in working with clients when it is necessary to clearly show what the final result will be. In addition, three-dimensional modeling methods are needed where it is necessary to show in volume already finished objects or those objects that existed long ago. 3D modeling is not only the future, but also the past and present.

Benefits of 3D modeling

Three-dimensional modeling has many advantages over other visualization methods. 3D modeling gives a very accurate model that is as close to reality as possible. Modern programs help to achieve high detail. This significantly increases the visibility of the project. It is not easy to express a three-dimensional object in a two-dimensional plane, while 3D visualization makes it possible to carefully work out and, most importantly, to view all the details. This is a more natural way to render.

It is very easy to make almost any changes to a 3D model. You can change the project, remove some parts and add new ones. Your imagination is practically unlimited, and you can quickly choose exactly the option that suits you best.

However, 3D modeling is not only convenient for the client. Professional programs provide many benefits to the manufacturer. From a 3D model, you can easily select a drawing of any components or an entire structure. Despite the fact that the creation of a three-dimensional model is a rather laborious process, it is much easier and more convenient to work with it in the future than with traditional drawings. As a result, the time spent on design is significantly reduced, and costs are reduced.

Special programs enable integration with any other professional software such as engineering calculation applications, machine tool or accounting software. The introduction of such solutions in production provides a significant saving of resources, significantly expands the capabilities of the enterprise, simplifies the work and improves its quality.

3D modeling software

There are quite a few different programs for 3D modeling. So, one of the popular programs that are specially developed for creating three-dimensional graphics and interior design is the 3D Studio MAX program. It allows you to realistically render objects of varying complexity. In addition, "3D Studio MAX" makes it possible to compose them, set trajectories of movements and, ultimately, even create a full-fledged video with 3D models. Although such work, of course, requires a specialist to have serious skills, as well as large computer resources, primarily memory and processor speed.

Maya is named after the Sanskrit word for illusion. Maya was developed by Alias \u200b\u200bSystems. In October 2005, Alias \u200b\u200bmerged with Autodesk. Maya is more commonly used for animation and 3D effects in movies.

3D modeling and visualization are essential in the production of products or their packaging, as well as in 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 concepts "3D-modeling" and "visualization"

3D graphicsor 3D modeling - computer graphics, which combines the techniques and tools needed 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, build-up 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 - at minimal cost. Visualization of the architecture of buildings and landscape design allows investors and architects to experience the effect of being in the designed space. That allows you to objectively assess the merits 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, models of heroes, 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, with the help of three-dimensional graphics for the film industry, individual objects and full-fledged landscapes are created.

  • 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 attribute of design. Based on the 3d model, you can create a prototype of the building. Moreover, both 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. Spotting 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, shine, 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 - human height, 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 are not yet presented on the site (on 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 prototype of the product 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.


Every day we all see a huge number of advertisements, films, cartoons and other media products of our modern world. The world of technologies, without which, it seems, millions of people around the world will not be able to live.

Almost all people know that an increasing amount of modern art is created using computer graphics. But only a few of them understand the difference between raster graphics and vector graphics, and fractal graphics from 3d graphics. We will analyze these differences today. A more detailed description of most of the programs and their cost can be found on the website https://www.architect-design.ru. So, let's go figure it out.

We can say that this type (type) of computer graphics is the most common. Deposits of frames from vacations and millions of photos of the cutest kittens on the Internet - all this is raster graphics.

Raster images are built according to a simple principle, which is similar, for example, to cross stitching. A specific color is placed in its assigned cell. If you zoom in on a raster image, you can see how it is divided into squares of equal size, resembling a mosaic. Such an increase noticeably worsens its quality, since the picture is divided into visible squares at high magnification. This effect is called pixelation, and each such square is a point, or pixel.

Raster graphics

The word "pixel" comes from the abbreviation "Picture element". The pixel is not divided into smaller parts, has a uniform color and is the smallest element of the bitmap. The size of a point, a pixel, of which the image stands, is about 0.05 millimeters.

The advantages of raster graphics include its high realism. The downside may be that if the picture is too small, then you simply cannot enlarge it without losing quality. The most popular program for creating and editing bitmap graphics is Adobe Photoshop.

Vector graphics

If in raster graphics a point is the main element, then in a vector it is possible to call a line as such. Of course, the raster also contains lines, but they themselves can be broken down into smaller details, pixels, but it is no longer possible to simplify the vector line.

Lines intersect, bend, close together form forms. For example, three lines closed at an angle form a primitive - a triangle. This triangle can be filled with a certain color or texture, stretched one of its sides or curved. But vector graphics are not only geometric primitives: the image can consist of bizarre blots, lines of different thickness, and any other shape. The more of these shapes are used, the better the vector illustration looks. It is somewhat like a paper applique, which consists of combinations of shapes cut from different sheets of colored paper.

Vector graphics

The main advantage of this type of graphics is that the image quality does not change when scaling, and the size of such a file is smaller, because each object used in creating an image is perceived by the program as a formula. This formula takes only one cell of information.

Let's say the line is designated by the program with the letter "L" and is written in one cell of the notebook. And if the line becomes red, then the letter "K" is added to the letter "L" as a color designation, but all this also fits into one memory cell.

Such a system somewhat simplifies the work with the image when editing. After all, each object can be bent, enlarged and scaled without affecting others.... There is rather one minus: your pet, drawn in a vector, will rather look like a comic book hero than a live cat. Vector graphics are created more often in programs: Corel Draw, Adobe Illustrator.

Fractal graphics

From the Latin language, the word "fractal" can be translated as "consisting of parts, fragments." To create a fractal image, an object is used, infinitely multiplied and repeated, the parts of which are divided over and over again, and their parts ... well, you get the idea. This resembles a snowflake or a tree, as if each of its branches was divided into two, and those, in turn, into two more, and so on.

The nature of such division and multiplication is determined by a given mathematical formula. There are a great many modifications of similar objects, but all of them are embedded in a single mathematical calculus, changing which you can get all new variations of the fractal image. Apophysis is one of the programs that generate fractal images.

Fractal graphics

3D graphics

A 3D image created on a computer can be as realistic as possible. It can be rotated, viewed from all sides, zoom in or out. Thus, 3D objects are similar to objects in real life, as they have volume, texture and exist, as it were, in three dimensions, but only on the screen.

3D graphics can be as simple as a three-dimensional square, or complex and detailed. Objects can be given the effect of movement, movement in space or interaction with objects, if the person who created them so wishes. We see 3D graphics in video games and cartoons - it is there that it comes to life and gives an estimate of its volume and realism. The most popular programs for creating 3d graphics: 3ds Max, Maya, Cinema 4D, Blender. The site you are currently visiting is dedicated to the 3ds Max program.

3ds max - program for creating 3d graphics

Nowadays, three-dimensional graphics are actively penetrating all spheres of life, and graphic design is no exception.

3D graphics are everywhere: in magazines, on street advertising posters, in collages of popular photographers, etc.

Many novice designers think that to create, for example, a cool poster for a movie, Photoshop will be enough and 3D graphics can not be used.

What they fail to realize is that by giving up the use of 3D graphics, they limit themselves and are deprived of the benefits that it would give their work.

Let me give you an example. Below is a poster for the Oblivion movie. As you can see, more than half of it is 3D graphics!

Three-dimensional graphics provide you with incredible opportunities for the embodiment of your artistic idea!

One more example! Recently, while having a cup of coffee at McDonald's, I noticed a beautiful poster that hung on the wall.

You ask, what attracted me to this poster? The thing is, the burger on this poster was somehow super-perfect!

Yes, he was excellent!

I (a person who knows a little about photography) understood that finding such a perfect burger, and even so cool to photograph it, is simply unrealistic! It will take just incredible efforts!

So I got an idea, is it not 3D graphics?

After coming home and searching the internet, I stumbled upon the site of a 3D artist who was drawing this burger.

Yes, I was right! This burger was 100% 3D modeled.

This is another example of how popular 3D graphics are.

Let's look at a couple more examples of the use of 3D graphics in advertising.

Three-dimensional graphics have become so sophisticated that it is difficult to distinguish it from photography. It should be borne in mind that, as a rule, 3D graphics look much more attractive than a photograph.

Car manufacturers were among the first to realize the power of 3D graphics, and now on all advertising posters and in magazines you see not pictures of cars, but their 3D models.

I'm not even talking about the fact that using 3D graphics, you can literally disassemble a car for parts.

To sell a product, you must present it to your customers in all its glory. It is for this reason that IKEA ditched photography in 2013 in favor of 3D graphics. Now all the images in the IKEA catalog are made using 3D programs.

Here are some more examples:

I am sure that you, people already familiar with Photoshop, have a lot to grow further and master new programs in order to keep up with the times!

What about 3D graphics software? What options are there in general, and what to look for if you are new to this matter.

There are many programs on the market today, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of them are: 3ds Max, Cinema 4D, Maya, Houdini, Blender.

But what to choose from this and where to start work, I will tell you tomorrow. And tomorrow you can create your first 3D object! Till tomorrow!