What is a 3D Model?
3D means three-dimensional which simply refers to something that exhibits the three aspects of measurements which are depth, width, and height. A 3D model presents a display of an item that may be flat to be perceived as having the three aspects of measurements. Such models are highly being incorporated in the modern technology in various industries to portray real-world concepts from mere representations.
The World of Technology and Inventions
Scientists are always coming up with 3D models that are taking technological inventions a notch higher. Almost all techno-based industries ranging from medicine, art, manufacturing, entertainment and other socio-cultural centers have found 3D modelling important in enhancing commercial activities.
Industries are coming up with the finest 3D application models to promote their activities. Everything is shifting to visual nature where concepts are perceived from the real world situation and not the usual theoretical flat concepts in the printed versions. The following are some of the wide industrial application of 3D models.
Rapid Manufacturing Industries (RMI)
Rapid manufacturing utilizes the technology of direct manufacture of products by skipping all other cumbersome stages of processing. 3D model is being used in this sector to slash the production costs by small numbers. Some of the technology it has boosted includes the selective laser sintering (SLS) which is a very improved prototyping method.
Research Centers
Most research centers are now relying on 3D models. Laboratories are utilizing 3D printing to produce chemical compounds. 3D enables them to make specialized geometrical shapes that are concrete to create better visuals when being handled. Labs successfully produce water and air-tight objects that can be relied on for a long time in research processes.
Medical Field
This is one area where 3D effects have played a significant role. Several areas in the field of medicine utilize 3-dimensional structures. During medical training, students are exposed to 3D models to practice their skills. Surgeons are taken through surgical processes using 3-dimensional structures before they get to the practical situation. Body structures such as the heart, bones and other solid organs are first presented in 3D shapes to enable students to learn medical concepts while in the medical schools.
Medical check-ups such as X-rays present the images in 3D forms. These enable doctors to detect fractures and other damages that might have occurred in body parts. 3D effects have been used to exclusively print implant devices in patient's body structures to enhance medical examinations and necessary treatment.
Medical devices have also been manufactured using 3D technology. Patients with disabilities such as impaired knees and arms have received artificial parts to replace the impaired ones. These elements are built using 3D prints.
Automotive Engineering Industry
Industrial 3D made robots have enhanced manufacture of classic cars. 3D cars that use environmentally friendly materials have been manufactured in the automotive industry. These cars are produced through a 3D enhanced environment where the first step is 3D printing before the actual assembling.
Airplane spare manufacturers are also utilizing the three dimensional technology. Planes with 3D printed spare parts have successfully been flown in the past. Several countries have shown the interest of acquiring 3D printers to enable them to manufacture plane air parts.
Building and Construction Industries
Architects and engineers usually rely on drawings and models for their work. However, 2D models lack the speed and accuracy needed by these professionals to finish projects or get solutions to challenges. 3D modelling, therefore, has been used by the professionals across the world to improve the efficiency and aesthetic of their designs.
Some of the major benefits the 3D models offer to architects and engineers are;
Space exploration
Zero gravity 3D printers have enabled astronauts to print important tools while on board. This has made exploration much easier as no rockets are needed to navigate between the earth and the areas being explored. The 3D technology has also promoted projects meant to establish human colonies beyond the earth.
Textile and cloth manufacturing industries
The fashion and design industry is also utilizing the 3D printing technology. 3D printed outfits are used to determine the fit of attires. Printed structures imitate the size and height of human body making it possible to manufacture clothes and shoes that will easily fit several people. Famous world clothes manufacturing companies are utilizing the 3D printing to meet the wide range of consumer demands.
3D is also being used in jewellery industries to print personalized gifts for loved ones.
Entertainment Industry
Virtual reality in the entertainment uses 3D modelling to produce graphics and animations. These animations are largely used for entertainment purposes. The production of films and shooting of movies uses the three-dimensional technology. 3D models aid visuals such as televisions and cinemas and other motion pictures.
The modern video gaming experiences are 3D enhanced as developing such games requires 3D modelling.
3D models have wide application in the modern world. Most industries depend on 3D models for efficient and effective operations. The applications of 3D models are expected to increase more in the coming years.
