Different 3D Modeling Techniques

3d techniques

We all have special adherence towards the sci-fi genre of movies, and the most intriguing part is the section where they show a 3D model of a building, floating in the air and with a hand movement various parts of the building can be moved around, laying down the most elaborate plot for the movie.

This fantasy has been converted to reality, decades ago by researchers and engineers to give you a firsthand experience of the structure even before constructing it.

3D Modeling has emerged as a strong solution to the issue of lack of visibility in the field of Architecture. Earlier the Architect relied on their strong drawing techniques and 2D software to help the clients to understand their vision and provide inputs. However, with a new software offering, 3D Visualization, life has become easy for both the architects and the clients.

How is 3D Modeling used in Architecture?

Initially, it was believed 3D Visualization is a feature appealing to only the gaming and entertainment industry but as it garnered more and more audience, its utilities also got modified and brushed to meet the need of professionals like Architects. It led to a boom in 3D rendering services, thereby creating a multimillion market.

When we talk about Architects, we need to remember that realism in visualization is a key code in their profession, and with 3D Modeling, this is very easily achieved. Moreover, 3D visualizations provide ease of achieving accuracy and compliance with construction standards and the set goals. The architects find 3D rendering services simpler as it creates a working prototype for them on which they can have trial and error work. It is a timesaving way to study and analyze the building structure rather than first visualizing then making a 2D drawing on paper.

3D modelings are attracting interest in the market because they are providing accessibility to the entire interior of a building with the freedom to choose the décor and colors .while testing the convenience of the layout. This way it saves time and money both for the client and the Architect.

Types of 3D Modeling for Architect

3D rendering services are using various types of 3D Modeling to enhance the user interface and improve the usability of the software. Some of them are listed below.

Edge Modeling or Wireframe Modeling 

It generally refers to outlining or highlighting the outer boundaries of a 3D object. This provides scope for the modeler to fill up the spaces between the surfaces. It is a simple and time-saving modeling technique that makes 3D Visualization very effective and user-friendly.

This technique has its constraints for example it can be used only for buildings and homes. Even though complex models can be created on this technique, they are very time-consuming and tend to generate certain inaccuracies, which are difficult to catch for new users.

3D Computer-Aided Design Modeling 

This modeling uses a very complex algorithm to convert a 2D design to 3D. It is used mainly for skyscrapers and simple houses to create 3D blueprints. The accuracy of this modeling is commendable and quite competitive as compared to its contemporary. It provides the flexibility to the architect to experiment with the color palette and work on additional features, their placement, and feasibility during the project.

Building information model (BIM): It is one of the most intelligent 3D modeling and is very helpful for Architects, Construction professionals, and Engineers. In this modeling technique, the user can create a 3d model which shows not only the functional features of the building but also the physical features. It is multi-user modeling where each professional can see the upgraded model live, irrespective of who made the changes.

3D Interior Modeling

The unique selling point for any architectural design is its interior, 3D interior modeling helps the designers to provide a 3D Visualization to the client about the interiors and the decor of every nook and corner of the house. It provides an ease to the designer to make changes to the decorations, furniture pieces, colors, surface finishes, lighting, and much more.

Computer-generated Imagery (CGI) Visuals

Any Architect needs to provide an effective and accurate visualization of their design to the client hence comes the need for Computer Generated Images (CGI) which is becoming exponentially popular amongst designers. It is a 3D rendering that can create the highest quality 3D images of both interior and exterior of a building or a house by digitally processing the information.

Benefits of 3D modeling for architects & construction industry

The advantages of 3D modeling in the construction industry are manifold and hence they easily overcome the factors like cost. Here are listed some of the advantages of 3D Modeling.

1. Realistic representation of design

For a professional like an Architect or a designer, it is easy to visualize a design based on the experience they have but it is not the same with the client, they need something more realistic and closer to their sensory vision. A 3D model bridges this skill gap and enables both the client and the designer to understand each other’s vision.

It also equips the client with an effective way of monitoring their requirements or making amendments during the project. The design enables both the parties not only to inspect the exteriors but also the details and finish in the interior along with the colors, patterns, and designs allocated to various zones of the construction.

2. More Effective Project submission and Marketing

What more can add a zing to your design other than the 3D model, it gives a clear understanding of the designer’s idea to the client so that they can evaluate multiple designs at the same time in less time and a cost-efficient manner. The quality of designs generated through 3D Visualization is at par with the realistic model.

3. Identify Error

3D models make it very simple for designers to catch any error or risk associated with the design to mitigate the issue at the primary level. This helps in saving the money as more expenses may occur in correcting an error at later stages of the project.

4. Other Benefits

3D modeling offers integration of several designs into a single prototype resulting in the most cost-efficient and high-quality prototype.

Commonly Used Programs & Processes

A lot of software is available in the market to create 3D Models some of them are

1. ArchiCAD: 

Graphisoft developed this CAD software. It utilizes BIM 3D Modeling and is a very popular software amongst architects. It allows you to explore multiple functions like data visualization, building modeling, and 2D drafting. It offers photorealistic 3D rendering.

2. Revit: 

It is a software developed by Autodesk utilizing BIM 3D modeling. It offers a collaborative working style as all the designers can access the model at the same time and work on different parts thereby saving time and cost.

3. Cedreo: 

It is web-based 3D software that finds its application in designing houses and drawing floor plans.

4. AutoCAD Civil 3D: 

It is another software developed by Autodesk, it can be connected to Revit to rework and add finesse to the model.

5. Chief Architect: 

It is CAD software that is used by architects to achieve 2D and 3D rendering. It is very easy to use software that provides a good understanding of the basics of 3D modeling to the new designers

3D modeling came as a boon in disguise to the construction industry. This industry was never considered to be sophisticated enough to utilize any of the software for a very long time and was run mainly on the skills and expertise of people working on the construction site.

There are few things to keep in mind before starting to work with the 3D model

Know your software

For an architect, it is important to choose the correct software, which could meet all the design requirements and at the same time provide additional features to compensate for any of the futuristic needs.

Get Familiar

It is important to know your tool and get familiar with different commands and features. It allows one to use the software to its maximum potential.

Get hold of Tutorials

There are plenty of free tutorials available for free to get hands-on experience with this software.

Start from simple

It is always a good idea to start with a simple model to develop confidence and enhance familiarity with various software.

How to choose a 3D modeling service 

There are lots of firms in the market which offer 3D modeling services, but it is important to keep in mind certain essential requirements before choosing them

1. Company selection

It is very important to go through all the information available online before choosing a service. It is advisable to check the company’s portfolio and profile to have clarity on the kind of projects it had handled in the past.

2. Modeling tools used

It is good to have the knowledge of the latest software available in the market and the kind of software best suited for one’s project. It always helps to make an informed decision before assigning the project. A Good 3D modeling company will use the best and latest 3D modeling programs.

3. Experience of the company

It is essential to understand the expertise of the company before giving it work.

4. Give a Test Assignment

If you are willing to pay and take the risk then a test assignment is not a bad idea. It gives you a very detailed insight into the company’s profile.

Conclusion

3D modeling is the new reality of the construction industry and the way it has established itself amongst Architects and designers, it is only going to get revamped from time to time.

Queppelin essentially stands out as a pioneer in the field of 3D modeling. It is one such 3D rendering organization that integrates Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) to create a realistic experience for its clients. It provides virtual reality-based training solutions to various manufacturing industries. It follows a consultative approach rather than a vendor approach, which is its unique selling point in the market.

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