Why your screen displays 3D objects that technically do not exist in three dimensions
In short: 3D computer graphics are a mathematical illusion. While we perceive them as having depth, they are typically rendered as two-dimensional images on flat screens. These models exist as geometric data in virtual space, only becoming visual graphics when the computer calculates how to project that data onto your display.
At its core, a 3D model is a mathematical representation of an object, whether living or inanimate. These models are constructed from vertices—points in space—that define shapes and form polygons. A polygon requires at least three vertices, typically forming a triangle. The structural integrity of these polygons is critical, as it determines how well the model will hold up during animation or simulation. Unlike a final graphic, a model is purely data, stored in a file until it is processed.
The production workflow generally follows three phases: modeling, layout, and rendering. Modeling involves creating the object's shape, often through tools used by artists or by scanning real-world objects. Once modeled, objects are placed in a 3D scene to define their spatial relationships. Animation then adds a temporal layer, describing how these objects move or deform over time using techniques like keyframing or motion capture. Finally, rendering converts this data into an image by simulating light transport and surface interaction, or by applying specific artistic styles.
While 3D graphics are often displayed on two-dimensional screens, the field is evolving. Virtual reality systems now offer immersive 3D displays, and 3D printing has moved these models out of virtual space entirely, creating physical representations. Interestingly, the distinction between 2D and 3D software is often blurred; 2D applications may borrow 3D lighting techniques, while 3D software relies on algorithms similar to 2D vector and raster graphics for its final output. This interplay between mathematical representation and visual display remains the foundation of modern digital imagery.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 3D computer graphics
- Also: 3D computer graphics
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