Optimising 3D Models
When preparing objects for Designer there are a number of processes to consider.
- Objects should be divided into Screens and Props.
- Screens should only include the surfaces necessary to display video content and may require re-modelling by detaching or deleting unnecessary polygons.
- Detached objects can be used in Designer as props, which are helpful for simulating a show in the Stage visualiser to present to the client.
- Objects should not exceed 150,000-200,000 vertices and may require remodelling by welding unnecessary vertices.
Dividing 3D models into screens and props
In a 3D application an object can be detached into multiple sub-objects. This is necessary when dividing a 3D model into screens and props for Designer. Screens are video displays such as LED panels, projection surfaces and DMX fixtures, and props are scenographic elements such as audience seating, stage floors and truss pieces.
Screens
A new Disguise project contains the following .obj files to be used as screens:
- rectangle.obj
- cylinder.obj
- concave.obj
- dome.obj
Complex screens, for example a building or a car, require 3D modelling and UV mapping tools available in 3D applications. For further information see the LED screen examples and the Projection screen examples.
Props
Parts of an object which are not required to display video content can be used in Designer as props. The image below shows the Ralph Lauren London Flagship Store divided into two sub-objects: a screen to display video content and a prop to simulate the building’s top and bottom. In Designer a prop can be customised to simulate the object more realistically including the ability to map paint textures to it. For further information see the Editing Props page.
The Ralph Lauren Flagship Store divided into a screen and a prop in Disguise.
Deleting overlapping faces
Delete all overlapping faces from the object. It is important to understand when video content is mapped to the screen in Designer, any surfaces with overlapping faces will display overlapping content. To test this, map a Radar layer to the screen.
Reducing the number of vertices
In the Designer, the Stage should not exceed 150,000-200,000 vertices. It is recommended to reduce the total number of vertices by welding them together, which should be done in a 3D application. Be careful not to delete too many vertices because this may lower playback quality, but on the other hand too many vertices may lower playback performance. A balance between quality and performance is necessary.
Please note: during a live show it is recommended to remove props from the Stage in order to optimise playback performance. For further information see the Creating and removing props page.