3D product modeling harnesses the power of scientific concepts and mathematical formulas to develop a 3D model of almost anything (i.e., the desired object, shape, animation, building, product). 3D designers and animators use numerous tools to manipulate objects and develop hyper-realistic depictions that can be seen and observed at 360-degree angles. If you want to master 3D product modeling, this article examines company techniques and tips for stunning product visuals.
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3D modeling applications in different industries
3D modeling is prevalent thanks to its extensive applications, uses, and functions across various industries and fields. 3D modeling design services come in handy for product development and adding photorealistic details that look real, not a mere digital 3D model. Take a look at the different applications and industries where 3D modeling has become irreplaceable:
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3D product modeling for apparel
The fashion and design industry exemplifies how 3D product modeling can be revolutionary. 3D product modeling for apparel enables designers to explore and unleash their creativity and develop structured and bold designs quickly and conveniently. Aside from designing apparel, 3D models of clothing can also be seen on different websites and used as try-on tools for optimizing the online shopping experience of your target audience. The 3D models can come in handy to create various molds or more complex elements for special effects on films.
Interior design and architecture
3D product modeling is the ultimate choice if you’re developing a new product design concept for furniture. You can use 3D furniture rendering services and software to turn the product design concept into reality and carefully plan every stage of the process before the production of manufacturing starts. Aside from being cost-effective and convenient, this is also the best chance to predict, anticipate, and pinpoint possible miscalculations, errors, and mistakes before production. If 3D modeling technology didn’t exist, you’d only discover product design flaws during production. Making any changes at this point will be costly.
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3D modeling for medical devices design and healthcare
3D product modeling services also play a significant role in the healthcare field. Doctors use 3D product modeling to develop artificial models of human organs and skeletons. It is also specifically handy in medical education, where the 3D models allow students to explore and study the human body. Another advantage of using 3D product modeling for healthcare is that doctors can explain and discuss various procedures with their parents more deeply. 3D product modeling can also be used in science to create models of different schemes, molecules, and other chemical structures.
Product design
3D modeling has endless applications in the field of product design. For as long as new products need to be developed and manufactured, 3D product modeling will continue to be the best way to do it. The best thing about 3D product modeling is that it allows manufacturing companies to test various parts and elements before proceeding with production. It also guarantees that the finished product design won’t have flaws, uncertainties, or mistakes, which can be especially handy when presenting to clients.
When designing a product, you must undergo several stages until you reach the final result. 3D product modeling and design will help simplify the entire process and shorten the sale cycle. You can use 3D product models in advertising to create immersive and fun 3D product animations and commercials.
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How to make stunning and realistic visuals for 3D product models
How do you make stunning photorealistic 3D product models? Before anything else, you should determine if you will hire someone to do the job or if you will create the 3D product models independently. After you have reached a decision, follow the techniques and tips below to create hyper-realistic 3D product models:
Take advantage of detailed maps
For a top-quality detailed map, one of the things you can do is overlay several maps, such as image, contour, and other surface maps. Modern 3D modeling software allows 3D artists to apply different map formats. 3D modelers, for example, refer to non-lossy and lossy bitmaps (.bmp). They also import maps to guarantee a more realistic effect.
Aside from this, 3D product modelers also create the illusion of natural textures, such as fiber, using detailed maps. You must also pay close attention to the specific material you will work with. This is dependent on whether the 3D model will be matte or glossy in real life. The most realistic models are those that follow natural patterns.
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Use the right 3D product modeling software
Unlike most software, developing 3D product models has a high learning curve. This is why you must look for and use the right program that meets and caters to your needs. Remember that the best solutions are not single-use; you should not be limited to 3D product modeling software. The best 3D modeling programs allow you to 3D model virtually anything from the ground up.
Try techniques for hard surface modeling
Hard surface modeling is used to 3D model almost anything, from high-tech gadgets to vehicles you see in sci-fi movies and games. Modeling hard surfaces is far from modeling organic people, animals, and objects.
Take inspiration from references in the real world
3D artists will tell you that using real-world references is critical during the early phases of the design process. Whether you want to develop a mood board that influences your distinct design or use real-world products as examples to help you hone your 3D modeling techniques, you can look forward to creating better 3D designs if you take the time to study various products.
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Benefits of 3D product modeling
3D visualization services undoubtedly provide one of the best tools that simplifies product design and development. While this technology seems to have an endless list of benefits, the following are the ones that are most relevant and important when it comes to product design:
Create top-of-the-line product prototypes
Today’s 3D designers can use 3D product modeling technology to craft realistic models of different types of products that exude a lifelike appearance compared to traditional photographs. The thing about photographs is that they cannot be used in the 3D realm. Alternatively, 3D modeling allows you to design product prototypes with more stunning details, including various lighting conditions, textures, and visual elements. You can print these prototypes in 3D or use them for marketing campaigns.
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Speed up time to market
This next benefit of 3D product modeling is evident and straightforward to understand. When you go to market faster than average with high-quality products, you will have higher chances of success and claim the top spot in your industry. With things happening all too fast, you will instantly lose your top spot if you fall behind your competitors by just a week. 3D product rendering firms allow you to design and manufacture your product faster than other methods. This will speed up your time to market, enabling you to rise above your competitors quickly.
Display the physical properties of the product
The best thing about 3D product models is that they look very realistic with the power of depicting items like no other method. 3D product modeling perfectly showcases your products in various settings and environments. You can reposition, twist, and turn the 3D model to see how it fits in multiple places and angles.
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Many major companies, such as IKEA, use 3D product modeling technology to help customers choose furniture pieces. IKEA has 3D models posted on their website that customers can use to decide if the furniture will look and feel right at home in their space. You can view the 3D product models in different virtual areas and rooms to make shopping convenient.
Identify the best materials and technologies for your needs
Since 3D modeling technologies are versatile and flexible, you can experiment to identify the best elements that suit your product. You can view the product from a 360-degree angle and apply different textures, finishes, and other changes. This will allow you to pick the best materials immediately before proceeding to the production stage.
How Cad Crowd can help
If you need help with your 3D product models, Cad Crowd can help you find the right 3D product modeling designer to turn your vision into reality.