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 Until recently, effectively
communicating a new design was left to the draftsman or to the artist working from blueprints. While mockups or scale models are more realistic, they are both expensive and inflexible. With any of the above methods, a fully articulated and accurate portrayal of the designer's intentions required a bit of imagination on the part of the viewer. Today, three-dimensional computer modeling methods can be used to create very complex surfaces and solids from two-dimensional data. The accuracy of computer technology allows precise
fitting of these complex forms to create a seamless design space.
Once the computer model is in place, photo-realistic views from every conceivable angle — whether it is in the form of still images, animated
walkthroughs, or panoramic views — can be generated. Such capability is valuable in answering questions from clients and others whose informed opinions are crucial to a successful design/build
process. Details can be faithfully represented in the overall context of the design before any construction is undertaken. Accurate portrayals of design options well in advance of construction help
minimize costly re-dos after the fact.
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 Precise
three-dimensional geometry is persuasive only if it looks like the real thing. Surfaces can be defined in terms of color, shininess, roughness, reflectivity, and transparency. Applying
designer-specified materials and textures properly to the geometry is as important as creating accurate geometry. Extensive libraries of materials images are available from manufacturers and third-party sources. Flexible and seamless mapping of these materials to a variety of geometric forms is made possible by sophisticated rendering software. Textural surface effects,
bumpmaps, add depth and authenticity to an image. With the help of scanning devices and digital photography, custom designed fabrics, hardware or woodwork can be represented faithfully in a computer rendering. Once the model has been constructed, changes in materials are just a few mouse clicks away. (Click on the image to the left for an example.)
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 In addition, a complete
spectrum of lighting options is available: from spotlights to area lighting, from warm incandescent to colored safety or white halogen lighting — each can be calibrated to meet
manufacturers' specifications. Though lighting effects in the real world are a very complex proposition, shadows, reflections, refraction, and even indirect lighting can be portrayed accurately
and persuasively. Solar lighting can be simulated precisely, as well; with adjustments for color, intensity, and placement according to time of day, month of the year, and location on the globe.
Animated (time- lapse) solar studies, which show light changes in real time from sunrise to sunset, can be readily undertaken without undue effort or time. (Click on the image to the right for changes in lighting.)
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 Creating still
images of a computer model is much like studio photography. There is a full range of “camera lenses”, “bellows”, and fine tuning adjustments to achieve a more natural look.
Just as in a studio, cameras can be moved and rotated. Walk-throughs of cabin interiors, as well as fly-arounds of yacht exteriors, can add immeasurably to the creation of a
real world experience. Parts and assemblies can also be put in motion. New designs involving mechanical motion can be tested as well as demonstrated with a mechanical animation. As part of the
process, interferences between parts can be checked.
Another new software feature called panoramic viewing makes possible user-controlled camera panning through a full 360°
range (up and down, as well). An entire design space can be captured by simply click/dragging the mouse. This functionality is especially useful for companies using the INTERNET to disseminate
information, since the only requirement for viewing is standard browser software.
For detailed information about our services, see Services.
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