Table of Contents for What is a 3D Mesh Model:
- What is a 3D mesh model?
- How to create a 3D mesh model
- Types of 3D mesh models
- 3D mesh model creation
- Texturing and materials
- Application areas of 3D mesh models
- What are high and low poly 3D mesh models?
- Conclusion: Why Should I Use 3D Surface Renderings?
- FAQ - 3D Artist vs CGI Studio
3D visualizations are images or animations of products and scenes that are created using computer software. To make these visualizations, you first need to create a 3D model. The floor plan for this model is also called a 3D mesh model or digital surface model.
But what is a 3D mesh model exactly, and what needs to be considered when creating it? Our 3D artists from Danthree Studio will explain!
3D mesh model from Danthree Studio
What is a 3D mesh model?
A 3D mesh model is a digital surface model (DOM) that digitally represents an object in 3D. The model consists of corner points (vertices), edges and individual parts (polygons).
The corner points are used as coordinates and the edges of the model connect two neighboring corner points. The faces (polygons) enclose the edges and thus form the surface of the object.
Triangles and quadrilaterals are most commonly used as polygons. The composition of these coordinates, edges and polygons is the 3D mesh model.
How to create a 3D mesh model
Creating a mesh model requires specialist knowledge, the right software and practice. However, you can also simply commission a 3D agency with the project. The team at our CGI agency Danthree Studio can create high-quality mesh models for you and visualize any objects in the home & living industry, such as furniture or interior design.
Please contact us for a non-binding quote!
Types of 3D mesh models
- Polygon models: Polygon models consist of individual parts that are connected to each other using edges and corners. This allows a three-dimensional object to be created.
- NURBS models: Alternatively, you can also create a mesh model using mathematical calculations to make the surfaces of the model appear smoother and more flexible. This is called non-uniform rational b-spline (or short a NURBS model).
- Subdivision surface models: Subdivision surface models utilize the advantages of both options mentioned and combine both models in one.
3D mesh model creation
- Modeling: In most cases, 3D modeling is carried out to create a digital surface model. To do this, the modeller manually compiles the corner points, edges, and surfaces of the model and then visualizes them using 3D mesh software. The best-known modeling programs include Blender, Autodesk Maya, and 3ds Max.
- Sculpting: Alternatively, you can also shape the model like clay or loam, which is known as the sculpting method. However, sculpting alone is often not sufficient, which is why this method is usually combined with other modeling techniques.
- 3D scanning: If you already have a physical product that you want to create a digital mesh model of, you can also use a 3D scanner. This automatically captures the corner points of your surface and can then reproduce them as a digital 3D model.
- Procedural modeling: Last but not least, there is also the procedural modeling method. You can generate 3D mesh models using algorithms and mathematical functions and also visualize complex objects such as liquids.
3D mesh model creation - Danthree Studio
Texturing and materials
To create photorealistic 3D visualizations, you need a little more than just a floor plan. That's why the mesh model is equipped with digital textures and materials that give the whole thing a lifelike appearance.
Colors, patterns, and other details are projected onto the surfaces of the mesh model in 2D.
3D model for 3D visualization
Application areas of 3D mesh models
3D mesh models are important in many different fields and industries, including:
- Architecture and construction: Architects visualize buildings both from the inside and outside with three-dimensional mesh models, which looks more realistic than regular building plans in 2D.
- Marketing: 3D visualizations are often used in marketing to attract new customers with beautiful product images. Mesh models are particularly impressive in the real estate and furniture industry, but of course small products can also be visualized.
- Gaming and entertainment: If you play video games or watch animated movies, you probably already have encountered 3D mesh models (perhaps unknowingly). These models are also used to animate characters, objects, vehicles, or environments for games, movies, etc.
- Product design: Product developers can also use mesh models. This has the advantage that product manufacturers can recognize faulty designs before the product has actually been produced. Possible errors can therefore be rectified in good time without high losses.
- Medicine and life sciences: Last but not least, digital surface models are even finding their place in medicine and the life sciences. Biologists can thus visualize even the smallest organisms and doctors can use mesh models to better understand disease patterns and develop new treatment methods.
What are high and low poly 3D mesh models?
You may also have heard of the terms high poly and low poly . These terms indicate how many polygons a mesh model consists of.
High Poly 3D Mesh Models
High poly models have a high number of polygons. This means that the resolution and therefore the quality of the surface model is also higher.
However, this also has disadvantages: high poly models require more resources (e.g. better hardware) and reduce the loading speed of the model.
Low Poly 3D Mesh Models
Low poly models, on the other hand, have a small number of polygons. As a result, they are usually not quite as detailed and realistic as high poly models, but they are also more resource-efficient.
As they offer a faster loading speed, they are often used in the games industry or for online configurators. However, a low poly model is also sufficient for images that do not need to be quite as detailed (e.g. background scenes).
3D Mesh Model Optimization
A 3D mesh model should look good but load quickly at the same time. So how can you find a balance between high and low poly models?
There is a solution for this! To maintain both image quality and loading speed, you can first create a high poly mesh and then convert it into a low poly mesh model. This polygon reduction / mesh optimization reduces the number of polygons without affecting the quality too much.
Conclusion: Why Should I Use 3D Surface Renderings?
As you can see, 3D mesh models are almost a science in themselves. Not only are there different ways to create 3D models, there are even different types of mesh models. The digital visualization of an object also requires specialist knowledge, practice, and the right 3D mesh software.
If the whole thing is too complicated for you, you can of course also have a mesh model created by an expert. For most companies, this is not only more time-efficient but also more cost-effective.
If you need a 3D mesh model for the home & living industry, our 3D artists and modellers at Danthree Studio can help you! We create high-quality 3D renderings of furniture and interiors and give your visual marketing the final kick.
Sounds good? Feel free to contact us. Then contact us for a free consultation and a non-binding cost estimate. We look forward to hearing from you!
