What Is 3D Modeling? Understanding the Basics | Coursera

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Learn about three-dimensional (3D) modeling and how it can help you in various applications.
3D modeling involves using specialized software to create three-dimensional representations of objects or scenes, turning ideas into tangible products.
Unity 3D modeling software, widely used for gaming and film production, is a good option for beginners to get started in 3D.
Blender and SketchUp are among the free 3D modeling software you can explore for creating animations and product prototypes.
3D models can be used to build lifelike characters, develop anatomical models, visualize new product designs, and more. Explore the fundamentals of 3D modeling, popular types, common modeling software, and how artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping potential future uses in this article.
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This valuable tool allows you to create three-dimensional representations of objects or scenes using specialized 3D modeling software. Using 3D modeling, you can create a digital representation based on an existing or imagined object that conveys the physical or planned object’s size, shape, and texture. Unlike 2D models, you can view 3D models from any angle, including modified, scaled, and rotated, within the specialized 3D modeling software.
The three dimensions of 3D objects refer to an object’s height, width, and depth. The basic building blocks of 3D models typically include vertices, edges, and polygons:
Vertices: Points that define your model’s shape
Edges: Straight lines that connect the vertices
Polygons: Surfaces created by connecting the edges of your model or where two polygonal faces meet
Read more: What Is 3D Design? And How to Get Started
Many types of 3D modeling have various applications and uses. The kind you choose depends on the software type, available tools, and your overall goal of creating a 3D model.
Solid modeling is a computer-aided design (CAD) technique used to create 3D solid objects. It allows you to create detailed 3D digital objects from simple 2D sketches or basic geometric shapes. This method involves taking a rough 2D sketch with dimensions, materials, and composition and turning it into a 3D digital model that shows volume, surfaces, holes, and voids. You can then assess how the object responds to real-world stimuli by manipulating it from different angles.
This is a technique used in computer graphics where you use rules and algorithms to generate 3D models. Procedural modeling can save you time when building more detailed 3D models. Instead of manually building models, procedural rules allow you to streamline the process, resulting in an efficient method for creating plants, buildings, or landscape models. Procedural modeling requires automatic generation, the repetition of processes, and randomization when necessary, making for a more efficient technique for artists and animators to create 3D models.
This model type is a skeleton of a 3D object created with points, lines, and curves that outline (like a wireframe) an object's edges. Wireframe models have no surfaces. These models help generate previews of models to assess and save time compared to rendering other models.
This process involves converting 3D objects to show smooth surfaces so you can check for imperfections more easily. Since surface modeling allows you to represent the exterior and surfaces of your object visually, it’s a very useful technique for creating mechanical parts or more intricate shapes.
This model type allows you to create smooth 3D surfaces using curves. Splines have anchor and control points that enable you to create these smooth, curved lines. Engineers and automotive designers often use NURBS surfaces because they provide more exact mathematical precision, which is necessary in some industry applications.
This 3D modeling type allows you to create highly detailed and intricate 3D models ideal for applications in animation, video games, film, and more. When creating polygon models, you have direct control of the mesh, vertices, and faces of the model, allowing for the creation of these more intricately designed models.
Examples of 3D models you might find across industries include props for films to create lifelike characters, mockups of buildings to help architects visualize final designs, and detailed anatomical models to help surgeons build operating plans before working directly on patients. Professionals often use this type of modeling technique to create detailed representations of larger objects, test new plans or ideas, or refine the design process before product launches.
You’ll find a wide variety of 3D modeling software programs, each with unique features and applications. When choosing a 3D modeling software program, consider factors like versatility, ease of use, features, cost, and operating system compatibility. Some popular 3D modeling software programs include the following:
Blender is a free, open-source software for creating 3D graphics and animations. Blender is particularly popular among individuals and small studios due to its flexible workflow and regular updates. It is compatible with Mac, Linux, and Windows and has a consistent OpenGL interface. Being community-driven under the GNU General Public License, anyone can contribute to its development.
SketchUp is one of the simpler 3D modeling software programs that allows you to create a range of objects for various purposes, from buildings to product prototypes. SketchUp Free is available to anyone interested in modeling, featuring cloud storage, access to the SketchUp Viewer app, and a 3D warehouse with other user-generated content. SketchUp Go, SketchUp Pro, and SketchUp Stu