3D MODELLING AND ACQUISITION

The goal of this module is to guide the students to learn the basics of 3D modelling, starting from the knowledge of the basic primitives to the understanding of the basic techniques that permit to design a 3D object starting from simple shapes or surfaces or to obtain complex models using Boolean opera-tions. Further, the course aims at the creation of theoretical and practical competences regarding the usage of 3D measurement tools within the Cultural Heritage domain.
The students will learn the differences between the two main families of 3D entities, the polygonal meshes and the NURBS, understanding the differences in terms of precision of representation and use. The student will learn also how the model complexity, the presence of lights for illuminating the scene and the use of textures may affect the speed of rendering and the user experience, in the case of interactive 3D environments. On the reconstruction front, the student will learn about modern contactless reconstruction techniques, including structured light scanning and image-based photogrammetry. The knowledge will include both the common basic working principles and the state-of-the art in software.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
• learn the fundamental concept of 3D modelling;
• model simple 3D objects;
• convert accurate NURBS objects to meshes for interactive visualization;
• evaluate the correct approach to be used for an acquisition task
• practically design the reconstruction process using off-the-shelf software.