Study Guide

Objectives (course unit)

This course aims to provide architecture students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to apply and optimize CAD models for use in game development 3D models. Upon completing the course, students will be able to:
• Understand the basics of 3D modeling for games and how it differs from architectural CAD modeling.
• Apply CAD models to game engines such as Unity and Unreal.
• Optimize 3D models for efficient use in games.
• Identify and solve common issues related to importing CAD models into game engines.

Content (course unit)

1. Fundamentals of a 3D Program Like Blender:
• Introduction to the Blender interface.
• Basic navigation, tools, and features of Blender used for 3D modeling.
2. Basics of 3D Game Graphics:
• Understanding core concepts of 3D graphics in games.
• Discussion of graphics pipelines and how 3D assets are used in games.
3. Modeling:
• Techniques for creating 3D models in Blender.
• Best practices for modeling structures or characters that are optimized for games.
4. UV Mapping:
• Explaining the process of UV mapping in Blender.
• Techniques for unwrapping models efficiently to maximize texture usage.
5. Textures:
• Creating and applying textures to models.
• Introduction to different types of textures such as diffuse, specular, and bump maps.
6. Model Optimization:
• Strategies for reducing polygon count without significantly affecting visual quality.
• Use of modifiers and tools in Blender to optimize models for real-time rendering.
7. Export and Testing in a Game Engine:
• Exporting models from Blender to game engines like Unity or Unreal.
• Testing models in the game engine to ensure they look and perform as expected.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2) (course unit)

• The student has participated in the course and demonstrated a basic understanding of elementary aspects of 3D modeling. While technical execution and detail are lacking, the student can create simple models and apply basic UV mapping techniques.
• Task completion has been sporadic and partially meets course requirements. The student has managed to export models to a game engine, but the process requires further development and attention to detail

Assessment criteria, good (3-4) (course unit)

• The student has shown a good understanding of the course content and has been able to apply learned skills diversely. Modeling, UV mapping, and texturing have been performed properly, although minor errors may occur.
• The student has been an active participant in the course, submitted assignments on time, and demonstrated the ability to use learned skills in practice. Model optimization and export to game engines have been carried out correctly, and the student has made clear progress throughout the course.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)

• The student has demonstrated excellent proficiency in all areas of the course. Work has been innovative and creative, particularly evident in the creation of complex and intricately optimized models.
• Assignments have been completed exceptionally well, including challenging UV mappings and diverse texturing. Model exporting to game engines has been skillfully done, and the student has actively sought ways to improve and enhance their work, exceeding basic course requirements.

Assessment methods and criteria

Exercises in sessions
Activity and participation in teaching
Assignments
Independent final assignment

Assessment scale

0-5