Innovation and collaborative, synchronized program management for new programs
Aerospace & Defense
Innovation and collaborative, synchronized program management for new programs
Explore IndustryAutomotive & Transportation
Integration of mechanical, software and electronic systems technologies for vehicle systems
Explore IndustryConsumer Products & Retail
Product innovation through effective management of integrated formulations, packaging and manufacturing processes
Explore IndustryElectronics & Semiconductors
New product development leverages data to improve quality and profitability and reduce time-to-market and costs
Explore IndustryEnergy & Utilities
Supply chain collaboration in design, construction, maintenance and retirement of mission-critical assets
Explore IndustryHeavy Equipment
Construction, mining, and agricultural heavy equipment manufacturers striving for superior performance
Explore IndustryIndustrial Machinery
Integration of manufacturing process planning with design and engineering for today’s machine complexity
Explore IndustryInsurance & Financial
Visibility, compliance and accountability for insurance and financial industries
Explore IndustryMarine
Shipbuilding innovation to sustainably reduce the cost of developing future fleets
Explore IndustryMedia & Telecommunications
Siemens PLM Software, a leader in media and telecommunications software, delivers digital solutions for cutting-edge technology supporting complex products in a rapidly changing market.
Explore IndustryMedical Devices & Pharmaceuticals
“Personalized product innovation” through digitalization to meet market demands and reduce costs
Explore IndustrySmall & Medium Business
Remove barriers and grow while maintaining your bottom line. We’re democratizing the most robust digital twins for your small and medium businesses.
Explore IndustrySiemens Digital Industries Software What is 3D Modeling? | Siemens PLM
Siemens Digital Industries Software What is 3D Modeling? | Siemens PLM
3D modeling describes the use of software tools, such as computer-aided design (CAD) programs, to create 3D digital representations of objects. Professions that use 3D modeling include consumer product development, automotive design, industrial equipment manufacturing, architecture, design, engineering, entertainment and gaming, as well as healthcare.
Although complex mathematical formulas are at the foundation of 3D modeling software, the programs automate computation for users and have tool-based user interfaces. 3D models are an output of 3D modeling and are based on a variety of digital representations. Boundary representation (B-rep) uses mathematically defined surfaces such as cones, spheres and NURBS (non-uniform rational basis spline) which are connected by topology to accurately represent objects as water-tight volumes. B-rep models are the preferred solution for engineering, and many 3D modeling applications for the design, simulation and manufacture of consumer and industrial products are B-rep based. Facet models approximate surfaces using connected planar polygons and are the preferred solution for less precise, high speed, shape representations used in gaming, animation, and digital mock-up.
Virtual 3D models can be turned into physical objects through 3D printing or traditional manufacturing processes. Models can also be converted into a static image through 3D rendering, commonly used to create photo-realistic representation for sales, marketing and eCommerce applications. 3D models can be created by the process of reverse engineering, in which 3D scanning technology is used to create digital replicas of real-world objects, including manufactured parts and assemblies, free-form models designed in clay and human anatomy. Modern applications of 3D modeling create and interact with a “digital twin”, which is used to develop, test, simulate and manufacture its real world counterpart as part of the product lifecycle.
3D models or digital representations of objects help to get innovative products to market faster.
30-day free trial. Start designing in minutes.
Start designing with your free trial of NX Scan to Part, the software that utilizes reverse engineering tools to leverage imported scanned 3D data in your design process. In just minutes, you will be exploring how Scan to Part reduces design time with reverse engineering capabilities. Learn how Scan to Part allows designers to combine facets, surfaces and solids in a single 3D model, without requiring data translation.