3D modeling

Draft

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Introduction

According to Wikipedia, “In 3D computer graphics, 3D modeling is the process of developing a mathematical representation of any three-dimensional surface of object (either inanimate or living) via specialized software. The product is called a 3D model. It can be displayed as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering or used in a computer simulation of physical phenomena. The model can also be physically created using 3D Printing devices” like the RapMan.

This page will include overview information plus some useful links.

See also: Computer-aided design and manufacturing

File formats

See 3D file formats

Free Software

Types of modeling software (first attempt)

CAD software for programmers

• See Computer-aided design and manufacturing if you are rather interested in building printable 3D objects (but 3D modelers also can do)

Free modeling software

Questions:

• Which is the easiest one to learn and that is "good enough" for producing X3D/VRML and/or STL objects (solid freeform fabrication)

• Blender (does more than modeling)
  • Wikipedia

• Wings 3D is a subdivision modeler inspired by Nendo and Mirai from Izwar

• Art of Illusion is a free, open source 3D modelling and rendering studio.

• Geist3D is a free software program for real time modelling and rendering three-dimensional graphics and animations.

• K-3D is free-as-in-freedom 3D modeling and animation software.

• Seamless3D is open source 3D modeling software for the web (VRML, X3D). Seamless3d can be used as a mesh editor and an animator, however its key feature is its build node technology.

• TopMod3D is a free, open source, portable, platform independent topological mesh modeling system that allows users to create high genus 2-manifold (watertight) meshes. (dead project ?)

• 3D Plus. Quote: “3D design software that enables you to create stunning 3D graphics for your home, school or business – no experience required!”. A commercial version named ImpactPlus costs $10.

• TrueSpace High end free 3D Modeler like Blender. (if you understand right, bought by MS, but then became abandonware).

Commercial 3D modelers

• Maya product page (Autodesk). Expensive high end.
• DAZ/Carrara (???)
• Modo ($1000)

See also: X3D (for modelers specifically made to create X3D objects and scenes)

Easy low-end 3D modeling tools

• Sketchup (Google). A simple version is free.

• AutoQ3D CAD 3D Editor. Commercial and a free pen Source community version. Advertized as easy to use.

• Eay Toy Quote: “is a 3D modeling software. It uses a sketch-based modeling method and a 3D painting method. The user interface is very friendly and operations are very simple”
  • Exports: .obj
  • 60 $USD, demo version available

Mesh manipulation

• MeshMixer The goal of meshmixer is to make it dead easy to compose new 3D models from existing meshes. (free for the moment - 16:10, 5 March 2010 (UTC))

• MeshLab is an open source, portable, and extensible system for the processing and editing of unstructured 3D triangular meshes. Can import/export STL (for 3D printers like the RapMan))

Models

• Thingyverse (Printable 3D models)
• the3DStudio (some free)

See also

• Fab lab and RapMan (for printable objects)

Links

• 3 modeling (Wikipedia)
• 3D computer graphics software (Wikipedia)
• 25 (Free) 3D Modeling Applications You Should Not Miss (Hongkiat.com, 2008)