Metal Barrels – ShareCG. This model comes with a set of colour textures to provide lots of different looks, as well as four bump maps.
Jun 212011
Archive3D is a site with a large collection of 3D models in 3DS or GSM format (GSkinMesh format, a proprietary format created by Sierra). There is a large selection of themes. The models are normally low poly and are free to use and modify without restrictions (read the terms and conditions). No registration is required.
Dynamics and Particle Effects is a two part article on creating particle systems on Maya. Smoke and rain are two of the effects that are taught in this tutorial by Audri Phillips from Intel.
From their very inception, 3D programs have been used to imitate natural phenomena, creating realistic, stylized, or artistic effects. A greater range of effects is now possible than in the past, before the advent of computer technology. The dynamics/particle effects component of 3D software combined with compositing programs-many of which also have particle capabilities-have primarily been used to create these effects, which have become a mainstay in film, commercial, and game production.
Apr 192011
ShareCG is a site with a huge amount of modelling tutorials, 3D models for download, and textures.
3D Millennium – Free Plans, Drawings and Blueprints for 3D Modellers.
The site includes architectural plans, sailing ship masting and rigging, and ship’s plans.
Assimp is a Cross-Platform Open Source Library to load 3D modes. Currently, as of version 2.0, it can import an impressive list of formats and it also exports to Collada and 3DS MAX. Once loaded, all the models attributes are easily accessible through the API.
The library also performs some post processing tasks on the imported models. These range from the common triangulation and conversion to left handed systems (Direct3D is an example), to mesh performance tunning and improve vertex cache locality.
Assimp is tailored at typical game scenarios by supporting a node hierarchy, static or skinned meshes, materials, bone animations and potential texture data.
It is fairly easy to use Assimp in an OpenGL context, and a few demos are provided in the release package.
Apr 062011
Free3DModelZ.com – Several models in many categories. Formats: 3DS and MAX. All models are free for personal and non-commercial use and for learning purpose.
Blender and Gimp Tutorials. On the Blender side it focus on precision modelling. GIMP is then used to create a texture for a machined metal gear.
Continuum3D Models, free 3D Models. - Free Models of fish, trees, plants, and flowers. Mostly in 3DS, Max and LWS formats.
Mar 172011
Textures library – A very large set of free textures. The collection includes many categories including bump maps.
