Have you ever wanted to create augmented reality with 3D models, but had problems finding one that fits all requirements? We sure have! To help, Overlyapp has integrated a handy automatic tool that can take off the stress of 3D model optimization.
First things first, let’s cover what 3D model optimization is. Generally speaking, 3D model optimization is the process of reducing a 3D model’s file size. The file size can be reduced by optimizing the geometry and textures of the object. 3D model optimization can improve the performance and make the 3D model more AR-friendly.
Further we’ll cover the two main optimization techniques we have integrated in our software — Polygon Reduction and Texture Optimization.
Polygon Reduction
Polygons in computer graphics are elements that are used to construct surfaces of 3D objects. Typically polygons are made up of a series of connected vertices, which are points in three-dimensional space that define the shape of the polygon. The more polygons used in a 3D model, the higher level of detail the model has. These types of 3D models can be called High Poly 3D Models.
High Poly 3D Models have very high quality visual elements and look realistic. The main drawback for using a High Poly 3D Model for AR is that they need a lot of resources to be viewed. Most mobile devices can’t handle real-time rendering for 3D models with that high level of details. As a result, the 3D model can have problems loading and cause an unpleasant experience for the viewer.
A solution for this problem would be polygon reduction. Polygon reduction is the process of reducing the number of polygons in a 3D model. Fewer polygons will reduce the resources needed on a device to view the 3D model, since there will be less details to render. Reducing the number of polygons will also lower the 3D model’s file size and decrease download time. 3D models with lower polygon count can be called Low Poly 3D Models.
Polygon reduction will help with the performance issues, but will have an impact on the visual quality of the 3D model. The Lower Poly 3D Model can lack the details and impressive visuals the High Poly 3D Model had. Automatic optimization on complex and detailed 3D models can also break the model and/or its animation.
Texture Optimization
A texture is a bitmap image that is projected on the 3D model to give it more details and characteristics. Higher quality textures enhance the details of the 3D model and make the object look more realistic. To achieve this effect, each 3D model can have more than one texture file. But the downside is that multiple texture files can take up more space and make the 3D model heavier and in result — lack performance. So sometimes, in addition to the main color texture, 3D models may require the optimization of additional textures such as normal maps, specular maps, displacement maps, and ambient occlusion maps, among others, for better quality and more realistic effects.
Texture optimization is the process of reducing the size and dimensions of the textures used in a 3D model. As a result we get a smaller file size, which can improve the performance of the 3D model. The cons of texture optimization are that in the process the texture image’s resolution is lowered, which can result in a loss of quality of the 3D model’s visuals.
In conclusion, each 3D model optimization technique has its advantages and disadvantages. Before choosing a solution, you have to consider the pros and cons of each of them. Our automatic integrated 3D model optimization service will get the job done and keep your 3D model in the best shape possible. But quality loss, less details and broken animations are drawbacks you might want to be prepared for.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, please Contact us for help getting the best result out of your 3D model. But if this post has inspired you to create your own 3D model, our How to create 3D content in Blender post could be a good place to start.
