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3D Character Creation
Class 06: Topology

Topics

  • Dynotopo & Remesh
  • Polygons
  • Topology
  • Retopology
  • Topology Reference
  • Class 06 Lab

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Dynotopo & Remesh

Dynotopo & Remesh:

Dynotopo
Dynotopo is a modeling mode whereby you sculpt on a model and geometry will dynamically tesselate to support the brush. this is very similar to Zbrush’s Sculptris Pro mode.
Remesh
Remesh allows the user to produce an even amount of geometry over a model with the click of a button. Often detail is loss in this mode but it tends to run smoother. This is similar to Zbrush’s Dynamesh.

Polygons

Polygons:

Polygons are straight-sided shapes (3 or more sides), defined by three-dimensional points, vertices, and the straight lines that connect them, edges. The interior region of the polygon is called the face. Vertices, edges, and faces are the basic components of polygons. You select and modify polygons using these basic components. (Autodesk)

Polygons are made of:

  • Vertices (1D)
  • Edges (2D)
  • Faces (3D)

Polygon Types:

We typically define the polygons into three categories; tri (3-sides), quad (4-sides), and n-gon (5-or-more-sides).
Avoid tri’s. Attempt quads. Never n-gons.

Polycount:

The number of polygons needed to create a smooth model is dependent on the distance from the camera.

When viewing a model during a close up more polygons are necessary to avoid faceting (seeing individual polygons).

Topology

Topology refers to the geometric surface characteristics of a 3D object, characterized by polygon distribution and edge-flow.

Click on the button with three slashes third from the top left. Then click in the topology section to see the wireframe of the model.

Edge Loops (and Edge Rings):

The model should have edges that flow parallel along the surface (edge loops) and edges that wrap around the form (edge rings). Beyond the look of the model and lack of errors this is the primary focus of how well the model has been produced.

Gridflow:

The collection of edge loops and edge rings that form the “grid” that forms the surface of the model.

Deformation:

You need to include more geometry at points of articulation. This means adding more edge loops at shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers, for example.

Some areas of articulation are more broad such as in the back or in a tail.

Stars/Poles

Wherever more or less than four edges meet is considered a star or pole. This is inevitable and unavoidable. When you have an edge flow terminate you will see a three star pole. When you have an edge flow run into another you will end up with a five or more star pole. A five pointed star is acceptable but you do not want more than that and you do not want an excessive number of poles if possible.

practical example in a hand.

Retopology

Retopology:

Topology refers the polygonal characteristics of the surface of a 3D model. Retopology is simply the process of redefining the topology. Traditionally this is done by drawing on top of the model.

Mudbox has an algorithm to automatically retopologize a model. Although this a great tool to quickly remake the model it lacks control. Therefore, it is still better to utilize Maya for this task.

Topology Reference

Head Box:

You can see in the reference below that you can break a head down into a box. It is easiest to model a head this way. Complete one panel at a time.

In the image to the right you can see how the proportions compare to a final model, skeleton, and low poly proxy.

In the image above you can see the important edge loops highlighted in red and edge rings highlighted in blue.

The image on the left highlights the importance of the facial features while modeling. You should model the most important features first (eyes & mouth) and work your way out.

You can navigate in the viewer above to see examples from the hand and head I have been modeling in class.

Class 06 Lab

Quadruped Sculpt Lab

In this lab you will sculpt the model. You will first finish any missing elements. Then you must UV the results. Then using the various sculpting tools and modifiers you will add detail to your model.

You will be graded on the following:
  • Lab Requirements
    • Techniques and processes covered in the instructional material is followed and implemented.
  • Creativity & Craftsmanship
    • Excellent design choices, novel & appealing, and solid clean caliber work.
Resources:
Assignment Video Tutorials
You may watch the tutorial videos below to help you complete your assignment.

Assignment Video Tutorials

Wait! Before you go!

Did you remember to?

  • Read through this webpage
  • Submit Class 06: Quadruped Sculpt Lab  on Blackboard