KRISTOPHER TEOH
ARCHITECTURE LIFE
Computer Applications (ARC 2723)
Week 1
For the first class of Computer Applications, we were given a brief on the subject and the project we were about to receive. After that, we were given an introduction on one of the programs that we had to use for digital modelling. There are two programs. Our lecturer started teaching us how to use the Rhinocerous program and said that he would teach us how to use the 3ds Max program later on. No modelling activity was done on the first week and we ended class after the brief and short introduction to the rhinocerous program.
For the second class, we jumped right into learning how to create basic lines and shapes. Rhino program allows for easy creation of shapes such as spheres, cubes, rectangles and many more. After that, our lecturer taught us how to use the Boolean Difference tool which allows us to create holes in objects for unique forms of shapes to be created. Finally, we started out with a simple floor plan using the modelling techniques we had learnt for the first class.
We started learning some other new tools such as the revolve tool that allows you to revolve a line around an object to create a new form. We also learnt how to use the extrude tool. Besides that, we were taught ways to create a more fluid and organic form. Finally, we were shown a certain type of method that allows u to cover and object with a plane to form a type of contour.
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
During the fourth class, we learnt how to use the sweep rail along an object and also how to attach words onto a surface. Besides that, we also learnt how to alter the axis to allow us to extrude a surface towars the direction we want. Finally, we were introduced for the first time to the 3ds Max program. We learnt how to import files in to the new program and how to create certain perspective views using 3ds Max.
Week 6
Week 5 class was replaced during this week. We started learning how to create a floor plan and then extruding it using the 3ds Max program. After that, like what we learnt in the Rhino program, we were taught how to create more types of shapes and also how to morph them into more organic forms. For the last part, we learnt how to create a simple contour using a plane.
Project 1: Modelling of an Architectural Design
For the first project, I had to use everything that i had learnt from my computer application classes to create a simple 3D model of an architectural design of my choosing. The building that I decided to do was my Design Studio 2 building. Mainly, I decided to use the Rhinocerous program to do most of my 3D modelling because I felt that the program was easier to use and much quicker in constructing models as compared to the 3ds Max program. I used everything I had learnt from class to create my model and then gave it some basic color and rendering. I created a simple contour of the site my building sits on which is suppose to be a beach at Pantai Kerachut in Penang.
Week 7
During week 7, we were taught how to add textures to our objects to make it more realistic looking.textures could be obtained from the internet and then added on the surface of the object. The textures could also be edited. After that, were shown how to add lighting to the area around the object using either the day lighting tool or the spot light.
Week 8
For week 8, we were given a tutorial on how to add a background using the bitmap and downloading photos from the internet as well. Some 3D models like the car in the picture could be downloaded to be used as well. Using the camera, we could position the car in the proper position to get the right perspective. An extra tool was also taught to us which is useful in making grass.
Project 2a: Exterior Renderings
For the second project, I applied the skills we had learnt in the following weeks after first submission. I added textures of materials and also for the ground and sea to create a more convincing looking environment and model. Once it was rendered, the building and the surrounding environment looked excellent. Lighting was also added to create shadow. The background could be photo shopped with the model and the surrounding environment.
Week 9
During week 9, we were taught a few ways to create lighting for the interior environment of a building. We could either use the target type of lighting or the free light. The lecturer also showed us how to improve the lighting for the final render.
Project 2b: Interior Renderings
For part 2b, I had to furnish the interior of the building with various furnitures to make it look better. Besides that, I also had to add the materials to the walls, ceiling, and flooring of the building. Using what I learnt from the week 9, I had to create interior lighting for the building as well.
Week 12
During week 12, I was taught how to create a simple animation using the 3ds Max. This skill would later be helpful in producing the video for the final project. I learnt how to use the autokey to create motion using any created objects on screen. Besides that, I also discovered how to create a moving camera view by creating a camera and then attaching it to a create path using path constraint.
Replacement class
For the replacement class, extra tips were given on how to produce forces such as wind and rain for the animation process. An interesting tool called the super spray could be used to create sprinklers. The pf source menu could be used to better improve the rain and wind effect, making it more realistic. I also discovered how to make a curtain sway from a wind effect.
Project 3: A maximum 90 seconds animation of the completed 3D scene
A complete video animation is created using the 3DS max program and Windows Live Movie Maker. I rendered the house frame by frame from the extrerior into the interior of the house by creating a proper camera path from the outside leading to the inside. The main theme of the video walkthrough is horror. I used dark environments, creepy noises, rain and thunder to create a spooky environment. However, in order to speed up the process of rendering 1800 frames to create the video, I had to lower the quality of the render. This had to be done in order to finish in time. I had used everything that my tutor has taught me in all my classes to create this video. I divided the scenes into seperate parts to reduce the number of frames needed to render per scene.
