3D modeling

3D modeling

Welcome back to our course! In this lesson, we will mainly learn about 3D modeling. The video will use Blender as an example to explain the basic process of modeling and the AI tools that can be used in modeling. You can download Blender at this website: https://www.blender.org/download/.

I. Basic Introduction of 3D Modeling:

The exploration of 3D modeling can be traced back to ancient times when sculptures were used to represent gods and humans. The birth of digital 3D modeling technology can be traced back to the end of the last century. With the rapid development of computer technology, people began to use computers to simulate the three-dimensional forms of the real world. This technology was initially used in the entertainment industry such as movies and games, providing audiences with immersive visual experiences. With the continuous advancement of technology, 3D modeling technology has gradually expanded to more fields. Today, it has become an indispensable tool in fields such as architectural design, industrial design, and medical research. Through 3D modeling technology, designers can easily create realistic three-dimensional models to visually showcase their design concepts and improve work efficiency.In the future, with the continuous development of technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality, 3D modeling technology will have a broader application space. It will further change our way of life, allowing us to explore the virtual world more deeply and enjoy a more colorful visual feast.

II. Core Elements and Process of 3D Modeling:

1. The core elements of 3D modeling technology include geometric shapes, texture mapping, and lighting. Geometric shape is the foundation for constructing three-dimensional models, determining the appearance and structure of the model. Texture mapping is an important means of adding surface details to the model to make it look more realistic. Lighting is a key factor that affects the visual effects of the model, and through proper lighting settings, the model can present more realistic light and shadow effects.
2. The process of 3D modeling usually includes modeling, materials and textures, lighting and rendering steps. If necessary, reference images can also be added to the three-dimensional process as aids. During the modeling phase, designers need to use professional modeling software to create three-dimensional models. Subsequently, in the materials and textures phase, designers need to add appropriate materials and textures to the model to enhance its realism. Finally, in the lighting and rendering phase, designers need to set up appropriate lighting and use rendering engines to generate the final three-dimensional image.
3. Mastering 3D modeling technology requires familiarity with various modeling software and tools, as well as a certain level of aesthetic literacy and creative thinking. Only in this way can aesthetically pleasing and practical three-dimensional models be created.

III. Common Tools for 3D Modelling: 1. AutoCAD: CAD software commonly used for 2D and 3D modeling, drawing, and design.

1. SketchUp: Powerful and easy-to-use 3D modeling software suitable for architectural design, interior design, and other fields.
2. Revit: A professional BIM (Building Information Modeling) software developed by Autodesk for architectural design, structural design, etc.
3. SolidWorks: Professional 3D modeling software mainly used in mechanical design and manufacturing industries.
4. CATIA: CAD/CAM/CAE software developed by Dassault Systemes in France, widely used in aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and other fields.
5. Rhino: Professional modeling software suitable for industrial design, jewelry design, and other fields.
6. 3ds Max: Professional 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software mainly used in game development, film and television production, etc.
7. Blender: Free open-source 3D modeling and animation software suitable for modeling and rendering in various fields.
8. Maya: 3D modeling and animation software developed by Autodesk, widely used in game development, film and television production, etc.
9. Fusion 360: A cloud-based manufacturing platform integrating CAD, CAM, and CAE functions, suitable for engineers and designers to conduct modeling, simulation, and processing in multiple fields.
10. ZBrush: ZBrush is a powerful and versatile 3D sculpting and modeling software designed for artists, designers, and game developers. It is widely used in various industries, including entertainment, gaming, and digital art, and is known for its intuitive interface and advanced capabilities for creating and editing 3D models.

IV. Application of AI in 3D Modeling: With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, many AI tools have emerged that can be used for 3D modeling. And here are some listed as well. Feel free to explore them on your own!

1. Rodin Gen-1: Text-to-3D realistic figure generation Paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2304.03117 Official website: https://sites.google.com/view/dreamface Rodin Gen-1 is a 3D generation framework applied to ChatAvatar and integrated into ChatAvatar after release.
2. ChatAvatar released by Shanghai Tech University and Yingtou Technology in February 2023, with beta testing in November Function: Text-to-3D realistic figure generation Official website: https://hyperhuman.deemos.com/
3. Tripo released by VAST in November 2023 Function: Text/image-to-3D model generation Official website: https://www.tripo3d.ai
4. CSM released in August 2023 Function: Image-to-3D model generation Official website: https://3d.csm.ai/
5. LGM released in February 2024 Function: Image-to-3D model generation, can also process text but with poor controllability and diversity Github: https://github.com/3DTopia/LGM
6. ArtefactsAI released in September 2023 Function: Image-to-3D model generation Official website: https://app.artefacts.ai/starter
7. Stable Zero123 released in December 2023 Function: Image-to-3D model generation Official website: https://huggingface.co/stabilityai/stable-zero123

Through studying this chapter, we have mastered the basic skills and methods of 3D modelling, laying a solid foundation for the upcoming rigging process. During the rigging process, we will learn how to add bones and controllers to the model so that it can be animated.

I hope everyone can continue to maintain their enthusiasm for learning, constantly improve their skills, and let’s work together to create even more wonderful works!