Three-dimensional graphics do not necessarily include projection onto a plane.....

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✪ Theory of 3D Graphics, lesson 01 - Introduction to 3D Graphics

✪ Computer graphics in cinema

✪ Lecture 1 | Computer graphics | Vitaly Galinsky | Lectorium

✪ 12 - Computer graphics. Basic concepts of computer graphics

✪ Lecture 4 | Computer graphics | Vitaly Galinsky | Lectorium

Subtitles

Application

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

The widest application is in many modern computer games, as well as an element of cinematography, television, and printed products.

3D graphics usually deals with a virtual, imaginary three-dimensional space that is displayed on a flat, two-dimensional surface of a display or sheet of paper. Currently, there are several methods for displaying three-dimensional information in a three-dimensional form, although most of them represent three-dimensional characteristics rather conditionally, since they work with a stereo image. From this area, stereo glasses, virtual helmets, 3D displays capable of demonstrating a three-dimensional image can be noted. Several manufacturers demonstrated 3D displays ready for mass production. However, 3D displays still do not allow you to create a full-fledged physical, tangible copy of a mathematical model created by 3D graphics methods. Rapid prototyping technologies, which have been developing since the 1990s, fill this gap. It should be noted that rapid prototyping technologies use the representation of a mathematical model of an object in the form of a solid body (voxel model).

Creation

To obtain a three-dimensional image on a plane, the following steps are required:

• modeling- creation of a three-dimensional mathematical model of the scene and objects in it;
• texturing- assigning raster or procedural textures to the surfaces of models (it also implies setting the properties of materials - transparency, reflections, roughness, etc.);
• lighting- installation and configuration;
• animation(in some cases) - giving movement to objects;
• dynamic simulation(in some cases) - automatic calculation of the interaction of particles, hard / soft bodies, etc. with the simulated forces of gravity, wind, buoyancy, etc., as well as with each other;
• rendering(visualization) - building a projection in accordance with the selected physical model;
• compositing(layout) - finalization of the image;
• outputting the resulting image to an output device - a display or a special printer.

Modeling

The most popular purely modeling packages are:

• Robert McNeel & Assoc. Rhinoceros 3D ;

To create a three-dimensional model of a person or creature, Sculpture can be used as a prototype (in most cases).

Texturing

sketch up

Visualization of three-dimensional graphics in games and applications

There are a number of software libraries for rendering 3D graphics in application programs - DirectX, OpenGL, and so on.

There are a number of approaches to presenting 3D graphics in games - full 3D, pseudo-3D.

Such packages do not even always allow the user to operate a 3D model directly, for example, there is an OpenSCAD package in which the model is formed by executing a user-generated script written in a specialized language.

3D displays

Three-dimensional or stereoscopic displays, (3D displays, 3D screens) - displays, through stereoscopic or any other effect, creating the illusion of real volume in the displayed images.

Currently, the vast majority of 3D images are shown using the stereoscopic effect, which is the easiest to implement, although the use of stereoscopy alone cannot be called sufficient for three-dimensional perception. The human eye, both in pairs and alone, equally well distinguishes three-dimensional objects from flat images [ ] .

3D graphics is the process of creating a three-dimensional model using special computer programs. This type of computer graphics has absorbed a lot of vector, as well as 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, is object-oriented, which allows you to change both all elements of a three-dimensional scene, and each object individually. This type of computer graphics has great potential to support technical drawing. With the help of graphic editors of three-dimensional computer graphics, you can make visual images of parts and products of mechanical engineering, as well as make layouts 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, because principles for 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 a simplified form. 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, refraction of light, and so on). Of course, this seriously affects the cost of the finished 3D model, but it allows you to expand the use of the 3D model.

Where is 3D graphics used?

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

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

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 a long time ago. Three-dimensional modeling is not only the future, but also the past and the present.

Benefits of 3D Modeling

There are quite a few advantages of 3D modeling over other visualization methods. Three-dimensional modeling gives a very accurate model, as close as possible to reality. Modern programs help to achieve high detail. This significantly increases the visibility of the project. Expressing a three-dimensional object in a two-dimensional plane is not easy, while 3D visualization allows you to carefully work out and, most importantly, see all the details. This is a more natural way of rendering.

It is very easy to make almost any changes in a three-dimensional model. You can change the project, remove some details and add new ones. Your imagination is practically unlimited, and you can quickly choose the option that suits you best.

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

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

Programs for three-dimensional modeling

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

The Maya editor is named after a Sanskrit word that means illusion. Maya was developed by Alias ​​Systems. Alias ​​merged with Autodesk in October 2005. Maya is more commonly used to create animation and 3D effects in films.

Three-dimensional graphics today have firmly entered our lives, that sometimes we do not even pay attention to its manifestations.

Looking at a billboard depicting the interior of a room or an ice cream commercial, watching the frames of an action-packed film, we don’t even realize that the painstaking work of a 3d graphics master is behind all this.

3D graphics is

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

A 3D image is not difficult to distinguish from a two-dimensional one, since it involves the creation of a geometric projection of a 3D scene model onto a plane using specialized software products. The resulting model can be an object from reality, such as a model of a house, a car, a comet, or it can be completely abstract. The process of building such a three-dimensional model is called and is aimed primarily at creating a visual three-dimensional 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, bring to life the most unrealistic design ideas.

3d graphics technologies and 3d printing technologies have penetrated many areas of human activity, and bring huge profits.

3D images are bombarding us daily on television, in movies, when working with computers and in 3D games, from billboards, illustrating the full 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 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-white shirt or delicious popsicles with chocolate chips, etc. At the same time, in a real advertised product, there may be many shortcomings that are easily hidden behind beautiful and high-quality images.
3. Interior design- Design and development of interior design also cannot do today without three-dimensional graphics. 3d technologies make it possible to create realistic 3d models of furniture (sofa, armchair, chair, chest of drawers, etc.), exactly 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 the designed building, which may not even have begun to be built.

Stages of creating a three-dimensional image

In order to get a 3D image of an object, you must perform the following steps

1. Modeling- building a mathematical 3D model of the general scene and its objects.
2. Texturing includes overlaying textures on created models, adjusting materials and making models realistic.
3. Lighting setup.
4. (moving objects).
5. rendering- the process of creating an image of an object according to a previously created model.
6. Compositing or layout- post-processing of the received image.

Modeling- creation of virtual space and objects inside 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, which 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 (omnidirectional light), directional light (parallel rays), etc. Some editors allow you to create a volumetric glow source (Sphere light).

As mentioned above, computer graphics can be divided into three main categories according to the ways in which images are described: raster, vector, and three-dimensional graphics. Among two-dimensional graphics, pixel and fractal graphics stand out in a special way. 3D, CGI and infographics also require separate consideration.

Pixel graphics

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

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

Pixel graphics use only the simplest tools of raster graphics editors, such as Pencil, Line (line) or Fill (color fill). 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 formed from irregular separate parts that are similar to the whole object. Since a more detailed description of elements of a smaller scale occurs according to a simple algorithm, such an object can be described with just a few mathematical equations.

Rice. 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, for a detailed description of which requires relatively little memory (Fig. 8.5). On the other hand, fractals are poorly applicable to images outside of these classes.

3D graphics

Three-dimensional graphics (3D - from English. 3 Dimensions - three dimensions) - three dimensions of the image) - a section of computer graphics, a set of techniques and tools (both software and hardware) designed to depict three-dimensional objects (Fig. 8.6).

Rice. 8.6.

3D image on a plane differs from a two-dimensional one in that it involves the construction of a geometric projection of a three-dimensional scene model onto a plane (for example, a computer screen) using specialized programs (however, with the creation and implementation of 3D -displays and 3D -3D graphics printers do not necessarily include projection onto a plane). In this case, the model can either correspond to objects from the real world (cars, buildings, a hurricane, an asteroid), or be completely abstract (a 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 three-dimensional image of the desired object. With the help of three-dimensional graphics, you can create an exact copy of a particular object, and develop a new, even unrealistic representation of an object that never existed.

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

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

3D graphics usually deals 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 image, 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 ourselves create the space. Thus, visualization of graphics can be only raster and vector, and the visualization method is only a raster (a set of pixels), the way the image is specified depends on the number of these pixels.

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

-graphic arts

The term "CGI graphics" computer generated imagery stands for computer generated images) stands for still and moving images generated by 3D computer graphics and used in the visual arts, printing, cinematic special effects, television and simulations. Computer games typically use real-time computer graphics, but CGI-based in-game videos are also periodically added.

Moving images are created by computer animation, which is a narrower area of ​​​​CGI graphics, which is 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. information- awareness, clarification, presentation; and others - Greek. graphics - written, from grapho - I write) denote a graphical way of presenting information, data and knowledge.

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

Infographics can be called any combination of text and graphics created with the intention of telling a particular story, conveying a particular 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.

An infographic is a visual representation 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 body of a person, animal or other objects.

Many different applications are used to create computer graphics. Conventionally, they can be divided into the following groups:

• Programs for digital sculpting (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.).

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

Universal 3D editors, as a rule, contain everything you need for CG: modeling, animation and visualization tools.

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

• program functionality;
• 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.

The most popular 3D packages:

3 Ds Max

3D Max- "pioneer" among 3D editors, a very popular tool, # 1 choice of many beginners and advanced professionals. Occupies a leading position in the field of design and architectural visualization. Often used in the gaming industry.

Capabilities:

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

And much more.

Pros: huge functionality, a lot of plugins and training information.

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

Autodesk Maya

Maya- 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 gaming industry. The package is ideal for creating animations.

Capabilities:

• a complete set of tools for NURBS- and polygonal modeling;
• powerful general and character animation tools;
• advanced system of particles;
• 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: great functionality and possibilities.

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 understandable and user-friendly interface than 3Ds Max and Maya. Widely used in motion design, film industry and advertising.

Capabilities:

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

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

Minuses: bad system of transition between versions.

Modo

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

Capabilities:

• polygonal and SDS modeling;
• modern animation tools;
• dynamics of rigid and soft bodies;
• drawing system;
• Fur material (fur) for creating hair, grass and fur;
• modeling 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, it is based on a procedural, node system. Houdini is ideal for creating complex dynamics, simulations: particles, fluids, smoke, fire, natural phenomena, etc. It is also a great tool for creating impressive visual effects. Houdini's main area of ​​application is the film industry.

Capabilities:

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

Pros: high quality special effects and animation.

Minuses: little information, high price.

soft image

soft image(Autodesk Softimage, formerly Softimage/XSI) is a 3D animation and visual effects software 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 visual programming platform based on nodes), the package offered wide functionality, flexibility, high performance and quality.

Capabilities:

• powerful polygonal and procedural modeling in the ICE environment;
• physics and dynamics of particles and geometry;
• non-linear animation;
• Autodesk Face Robot facial animation tools;
• built-in MentalRay.

In 2008, Autodesk bought Softimage from Avid for $35 million. In 2015, Autodesk announced that it was no longer selling licenses for Softimage 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 3D animation and visual effects tool from NewNek. It has long been the industry standard in film and television.

From dynamic modeling, character animation, visual effects to game development and architectural visualization, the new and enhanced LightWave 2015 package offers a wealth of possibilities.

Capabilities:

• 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

The only free 3D package on the list, which is almost as functional as paid applications. Blender includes tools for 3D modeling, animation, and a range of options for creating games, visual effects, and sculpting. A great alternative to "monsters" 3D animation. Thanks to the support of the Blender Foundation, the program is developing very quickly and steadily.

Capabilities:

• polygonal modeling, splines, NURBS curves and surfaces;
• sculpting mode;
• particle system;
• dynamics of rigid 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: accessibility, 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:

• 3D 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 movies.
• Houdini- visual programming, special effects in cinema.
• soft image- animation and special effects in cinema, television, games.
• LightWave- special effects in film and 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 to the full, it will not be difficult to study others.

Good luck with your studies and work!