3D computer graphics are graphic effects using three-dimensional representation of geometric data stored in the computer for purposes of performing calculations and producing 3D images. These images are stored for future use. They are often referred to as 3D models. Aside from the rendered graphic, the model is limited within the graphical data file. There are difference of a 3D model to the rendered and manipulated model. First, a 3D model is the mathematical representation of any three-dimensional image. A 3D model is technically called graphic when it is already displayed. 3D model can be displayed visually as a two dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering.
Basic Phases of 3D Computer Graphics Creation
- 3D Modeling is the process of forming a computer model of the shape of an object. The model describes the process of forming the object’s shape. The most common sources of 3D models are those that an artist creates on the computer with some kind of 3D modeling tool and models scanned into a computer from a real object. A 3D model is formed from points referred to as vertices that define the shape and form polygons. The overall veracity of the model and its suitability to use in animation depends on the structure of the polygon.
- Layout and animation is the motion and placement of objects within a scene. Objects need to be laid out in a scene. This gives spatial relationships between objects, location and size. Animation is the temporal description of an object like how it moves and deforms after some time. Animation uses methods such as key-framing, motion capture and inverse kinematics. They are usually used together or in combination. Physical simulation also specifies motion in relation to animation
- 3D rendering is the computer calculations based on light placement, surface types and other qualities to generate the image. 3D rendering converts a model into an image by simulating light transport to a more realistic photo image or by applying an art style. The two basic operations in realistic rendering are transport and scattering. Transport means the amount of light it gets from one place to another. Scattering on the other hand means how the surface interacts with the light. This step can be attained using a 3D computer graphics software or a 3D graphics API. Changing the scene into a suitable form for rendering involves 3D projection that displays a 3D image in two dimensions.