When the 3D model is completed using Hard difficulty all 10 Display Effects are unlocked.

These Display Effects allow the 3D model to be examined in depth, revealing 8 fundamental learning outcomes as described below.

1 of 8 - Points

All 3D models have points. For example, a triangle has 3 points... the following model has hundreds of points.

2 of 8 - Triangles

All 3D models are made from triangles. All 3D Models, no matter what shape, are made using triangles, which are the fundamental building block for any 3D object or shape. For example, a square is made using 4 points and 2 triangles, a cube is made using 8 points and 12 triangles.

3 of 8 - Normals

Normals are necessary to simulate lighting and shading. A 3D model with white coloured triangles would look like a flat shape without shading. Surface Normals indicate the direction light bounces off a surface. For example, a table top would have a Surface Normal pointing straight up. In our example, the Normals are shown as yellow lines or hairs sticking out from the 3D model.

Note the big difference between the shaded 3D model (below) and the flat coloured 3D model (above). A new shading calculation is performed every time the 3D model is drawn to the screen or the viewing position changes.

4 of 8 - Paint

Paint on a 3D model is called a "Texture".

5 of 8 - Transparency

Some triangles can be made transparent... this can be used to simulate glass and other materials such as water.

6 of 8 - Lines

Lines add fine detail to a 3D model and enhance edges.

7 of 8 - Mirroring

We do not have to model all 3D surfaces. If a surface is the same on both sides (symmetrical) we only need to build one side and specify that the other side is mirrored. This saves a lot of time.

8 of 8 - Reflections

Reflections add a final high quality to the 3D model. It is an additional calculation similar to shading.

3D Kit Builder

Students who use this software will gain a taste of what a career in 3D would be like, and learn the fundamentals of 3D modelling and artwork in a fun, easy-to-use, interactive environment.

3D Model Builder

A follow up product, 3D Model Builder (coming soon) will be created for higher 3D skills development, allowing students to apply the fundamentals to build their own 3D shapes, objects and complex models.

3D Game Builder

In 2007, we anticipate being able to offer students the ability to develop their own video games using our 3D technology.