For better knowledge understand What is 3D animation? Its benefits and uses, objects appear to rotate, and move as if they were real-world objects, providing a full 360-degree view. This form of animation was initially used in video games and television, as well as in film. One of the earliest examples of 3D animation is Pixar’s “Toy Story”.3D animation involves the creation of moving, 3D images in a digital environment. These images are created using 3D software. 3D software allows animators to animate computer objects that appear to be 3D even when they’re only 2D. Visual effects and accurate timing allow animators to create anything from a 3D character in a video game to a moving car in an advertisement.

Define 3D animation and its Uses of 3D Animation in Real World 

At first, 3D animation was mainly used in video games, television shows, and motion pictures. However, over the years, 3D animation has grown to be used in many different industries and for many different purposes. From corporate advertising campaigns to architectural modeling to medical research, here are some of the most common uses for 3D animation today.

1. Television and movies

2. Gaming

3. Company presentations

4. Marketing

5. Medicine

6. Simulation 

7. Architecture and design

8. Prototype

1. Television and movies

Character animation is one of the most common uses of 3D animation in television and film. 3D animation can make characters look more realistic, which helps to strengthen the emotional connection that viewers form with the characters. An animated character in 3D is more lively and fun to play with, making 3D animation extremely useful for children’s entertainment.

● For example, in the movies, the main character, Elsa, can transform objects into ice in 3D, making the story more magical. 

● Similarly, scenes involving the character singing, dancing, and twirling become more impactful in 3D, and facial expressions become more meaningful.

2. Gaming

3D animation also adds a sense of realism to video games. It makes the action more exciting for the player, whether it’s fighting an enemy or running through a challenging obstacle course. 3D animations can also be combined with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) special effects, allowing the player to feel as if they are actually inside the world.

● For example, Horizon Zero Dawn is a prime example of a video game that can benefit from 3D animation. It’s an action game that relies heavily on physicality, such as avoiding traps, solving puzzles, and fighting enemies.

● In 3D, the combatant robots are much more intimidating, making the game more exciting.

3. Company presentations

Let’s face it, PowerPoint isn’t as interesting as it used to be. 

● Presentations using 3D animated elements help to capture the audience’s attention and keep them engaged for the entire duration of the presentation.

● There are various methods to fly a drone in 3D.

4. Marketing

3D animation is also useful in marketing. A marketer can use it to show all the features of the product as they would look in the real world. Audiences will get a better idea of what the products look like. 

● Brands can also use it to show products in a tutorial or demo format.

● Lastly, 3D animation can help create more engaging content.

 In today’s world where people’s attention spans are becoming shorter, a great video ad using 3D techniques will keep consumers engaged. 

5. Medicine 

Medical animation can be used for educational purposes, to display anatomically correct images, and even to digitally demonstrate medical procedures. This can be especially useful in areas that are difficult to experiment with, such as surgery. Additionally, medical animation can be used to interact with patients. 

● For example, medical animation can help patients understand what to expect during a procedure.

● In addition to 3D animation, VR tools can also be used in conjunction with 3D animation to help reduce anxiety during some medical procedures. An example of this is the use of MRI scans.

 Many people find it difficult to relax in a confined environment. Providing them with a realistic 3D animation of a beach or forest can help calm them down and improve patient care.

6. Simulations

You can also use 3D animation in simulations across a wide range of areas. 

● For instance, you can use a 3D animated video to improve employee training. Employees can access a single 3D-animated training video whenever they need it. This eliminates the need for expensive and disorganized mass training sessions. 

● For example, car brands like Audi combine 3D animation with VR tools to deliver training to their employees.

7. Architecture and design

3D animation can also be used to create life-like 3D renderings of homes and buildings before they are built. By combining 3D animation with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools, architects can step inside their designs and walk through them. 

● This technology can also be used for interior decorating purposes, allowing designers to get a clear idea of what a space will look like. 

● Here are some 3D rendering examples compiled by LCP360.

8. Prototype 

In addition to 3D animation, 3D printing can also be used as a cutting-edge tool to create low-cost product prototypes.

Engineering firms, medical technology companies, and other businesses can save on raw materials, time, and labor by visualizing and creating low-cost prototypes. They can then modify their goods based on these prototypes before developing a final product.

● In the tech and machinery industries, prototyping with 3D tools is one of the most popular activities.

● The prototypes range from bridges and eyewear to furniture and robotic arms. 

● Even race car companies use prototypes to find new ways to accelerate their wheel-change process.

Procedure 

3D techniques take an animated character that appears on the 2D screen, and not only do they make that character look 3D, but they can make that character look like it is moving through a 3D space. An experienced animator will have you reach out and think you are touching 3D objects, only to find that you are facing a flat screen. How does 3D animation work? Let’s take a look at how to do 3D animation for beginners.

1. Modeling

2. Layout and animation

3. Rendering

1. Modeling

In the modeling stage, animators build 3D objects that are used as the foundation for animation. This type of animation is done with a modeling tool.

● A 3D mesh is created from a basic object, which is called a primitive. The mesh is then formed and shaped to the desired shape.

● The 3D models are given details such as color and texture.

● Rigging is the process of setting up a skeleton for an animation character that will enable it to move.

2. Layout and animation

It is only after all of these steps have been completed that the 3D animator progresses to the actual animation stage. 

● At this stage, the animator can animate a 3D object. 

There are several ways to animate an object, ranging from using keyframes (moving the object frame by frame) to using motion capture data.

3. Rendering

Once the animation, lighting, and camera angles are fine-tuned, it’s time for the animator to render. 

● Rendering is where the graphic images you’ve designed are made and exported. 

● Your 3D character’s final render will be adjusted based on light and shadow, reflection, transparency, etc.

Benefits of 3d animation

1. Looks Real: 3D animation makes things on screens look super real, like in movies or games.

2. Cool Stories: It helps tell stories more awesomely, creating amazing characters and scenes.

3. Learn Better: In school or online, 3D animation makes learning easier by showing complicated stuff in a fun and clear way.

4. Show Stuff Off: Businesses use it to make their products look cool in ads or presentations.

5. Fun Entertainment: Cartoons, movies, and games become more fun and exciting with 3D animation.

6. Saves Money and Time: Once you make the 3D stuff, you can use it again and again, saving money and time.

7. Practice-Without Risk: Doctors, pilots, and others practice their skills using 3D simulations without any real danger.

8. Work Together Anywhere: People from different places can work together on projects using 3D animation.

9. See Buildings Before They’re Built: Architects use it to show how buildings will look before they’re even constructed.

10. Create Awesome Things: Artists and designers use 3D animation to make cool and imaginative stuff.

Differences between 2D and 3D animation

· In 2D animation, all the images look flat because they only span one side of the x-axis (the horizontal side) and the other side (the vertical side).

· In 3D animation, there’s a third axis called the z-axis that adds depth.