This simple propellor presented a problem of how to render a very basic, long and thin shape.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/10x4-dot-7-propeller
This model was a single object which had to be split up into different materials.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/475mm-fan
The components of this model were all separate .stl files but they were very high quality.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/1950s-bike-right-crank-and-chain-ring
This model would've been better if the components were separate, so that materials could be applied more easily. A lack of reference images also meant that I had to guess the appearance of the model.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/abb-robotic-arm-for-3d-print
Anatomical models are always a challenge to render due to the expected realism, which is hard to achieve as it requires textures and SSS. SSS could not be used in this model due to overlapping geometry, hence a basic material was used. Social factors also have to be considered, hence a neutral gray is used for the colour.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/adam
Like many technical models, this alternator was difficult to make interesting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/alternator--2
This was a very high poly model, but this certainly increased its quality.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/alternator-full-feature-tree
This bracelet was an opportunity to use a realistic SSS rubber material. This enables the electronic components inside the bracelet to be seen.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/amico-bracelet--18
This basic wheel was not an accurate model; and the components were a single object, which made applying different materials difficult, but I am happy with the end result.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/audi-s3-wheel
These chairs were a very basic model with little freedom, and there was no texture to apply to them as a fabric pattern.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/automobile-seats
This was a very basic bearing with simple reflective materials, which are always difficult to render effectively.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/bearing-skf-mod-re1c-6306-2z-slash-rolamento-skf-mod-re1c-6306-2z
This model had a lower than perfect polygon density, and it is unusual to render an object typically found outside in a studio environment, but I'm happy with the end result.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/bench--21
This chandelier model had to have lights added manually, this combined with a reflective material made the render very long, but using Multilight and keeping the Maxwell file means that many combinations can be made in the future.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/ceiling-lamp-concept-led
This centrifugal clutch was a unique object with many reflective surfaces. The model was well constructed and resulted in an easy render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/centrifugal-clutch
The board was a simple cuboid with bevelled corners. A checkerboard texture was not supplied, so a beech wood was substituted. The chess pieces were very high-poly but a simple material resulted in a normal render time.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/chess-board-and-pieces
Not many models on GrabCAD were automotive, and this chopper model was a pleasure to work with. Although most components were bare metal, a pearlescent material was used on painted surfaces to give a dark blue paint with a black falloff.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/chopper--4
Like many industrial models, this tank was very basic and restricted creative freedom.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/condensate-tank
Another very simple object that restricted the creativeness of the render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/damper--4
This was an adventurous model, but quite low-poly, and windows were not modelled. Being a concept aircraft, there was also little indication of which materials to apply.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/delta--1
This was a complex model, and my lack of knowledge of the workings of diesel engines did not help when setting up the components. A lack of reference images also meant that the materials applied may be incorrect.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/diesel-engine
This model showed that even basic geometry and materials can result in an attractive render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/differential-mechanism
A lack of texture for the main beam of these digital callipers was a disappointment, but I am very happy with the rest of the model.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/digital-verniers
This simple dragon outline was an excellent use of a SSS material to show varying thickness and backlighting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/dragon--4
This pylon was a challenge as it necessitated the use of physical sky due to its scale, and the very thin sections of metal were difficult to show effectively.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/electric-tower
This image shows how even complex objects such as internal combustion engines can be modelled simply and tricky to render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/engine-cat-c6--1
This basic propellor motor uses transparent components to better show the inner workings.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/engine-kometa-md-5
This model was a challenge to set up but very rewarding.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/engine-v-twin1
This model is an example of a relatively basic model with few materials producing an attractive render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/exhaust-system--2
This was an unusual model which had unique rendering requirements, but these were met without difficulty.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/fanuc-m-1ia-0-5s
This was another relatively simple model, with which I added textured materials to add interest.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/flame-eater-engine
Another industrial model with which interest was added with highlighted components with painted materials.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/fora-model-engine-for-f2d-combat
Another model which required transparent materials to show the more complex components under the more basic exterior.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/forrest-edwards-radial-5-engine-pro-slash-e
Another relatively basic object, with interest added with coloured lighting and painted highlights on the bare metal components.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/front-fork-for-harley-davidson-xl120r-sportster1200
Various different types of metal and an off-centre model angle make an otherwise industrial object more interesting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/full-gear-differential
The wide-angle view required to show the entire model do not reveal the high detail of the individual components.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/gantry-crane--1
Another example of metal variety and angles being used to make a more interesting render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/gear-combination
Large, thin objects were always difficult to visualise. In this example, the model has been duplicated to enable an overview and detail to be shown in the same image.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/generic-direct-drive-wind-turbine-with-77-dot-5-meter-conventional-tower
This wheel was a basic model with a low polycount. Basic materials further simplify the scene. Lighting and a reflective floor serve to add interest to the image.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/goodyear-offroad-tire
This was an excellent model, with all components optimised appropriately. Appropriate materials were used to ensure inner components were visible. An angled floor was used to match the setup of the mount.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/gopro-sports-cam
This was one of the more industrial models from GrabCAD. Poor reference images resulted in probably inaccurate materials.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/heavy-machinery
This single-material model was complemented with a textured material.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/horse-woodcraft
This model was difficult to setup, and the geometry was conflicted. I tried to conceal the basic automotive modelling.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/hot-rod-550
This was an accurate and high quality model, but still very limited in possibilities. A basic render was all that was possible.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/how-to-create-a-rim-of-an-audi-r8
This basic model was highlighted by using coloured lighting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/hydrant
A number of components was made more interesting by using dynamics to simulate a large pile.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/imperial-pipe-fittings
This basic phone holder had a low polycount, and geometry which was easily concealed by other geometry. To show it effectively it was necessary to use a transparent material, and duplicate the object to show all aspects of the geometry.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/iphone-dock--12
Another basic model which was highlighted by using backlighting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/iphone-dock-03
This was a very difficult model to render, the geometry was basic and low density. A single reflective material only made the render more difficult. An emissive sphere was used to simulate a bulb.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/lamp-shade--2
A warm lighting style complemented the warm leather.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/lounge-chair--1
SSS was used on this simple model to help add interest, but this created very long render times.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/meca-gorilla
The individual buttons on this model were difficult to set up, but the model overall was very relevant and good practise.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/mfc-j410-printer
This phone holder had basic geometry and a low polygon count. Combined with an unusual shape, it was difficult to render effectively.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/minolta-iphone-holder
The geometry of this model was very low poly, which necessitated the use of a dark render style to minimise reflections.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/mixing-tab
This model contained high and low detail components. A variety of materials helped to differentiate the engines pieces.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/model-engine--1
This mouse does not contain any inner components, but the use of SSS on the middle section was very suitable.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/mouse--43
The size of this model disguises the basic components. The number of components made setting up the model difficult.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/my-lathe
This very industrial model was difficult to set up, because of the sheer number of components, but the final result was rewarding.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/package-skid-ammonia
This was a complex model but previous experience with similar models made the process easier.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/plastic-injection-mold--2
This model was already in an exploded state, which made the resulting render more interesting, but setting up the many individual components took time.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/plastic-lid-injection-mold
The accurate modelling of this object made rendering easier, enabling the use of a SSS material on the handle, although some overlapping geometry presented problems.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/pliers--7
Another object with simple materials. A texture was used on larger components to show scale and variety.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/pliers--8
Coloured lighting and materials on certain components serve to highlight an otherwise industrial object.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/press-with-rotating-nut-presa-cu-piulita-rotitoare-model-3d
A low resolution mesh prevented creative render techniques, and resulted in a basic view of the subject.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/radial-engine--5
To reveal the detailed inner components which would otherwise be obscured except in an exploded view, a transparent material was applied to the outer casing of the object.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/reduction-gear--1
A creative model gave the opportunity for a creative render, with colour used for extra effect.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/reduction-gears--1
Experience with similar models made working with this model easier.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/redutor--4
Another very basic and small model was made more attractive by using dynamic simulation to create a pile.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/rivet-din-7337-913-configurations
This very basic, minimilist model presented unique problems, such as a lack of components and restrictive materials.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/rocking-chair
This model was clearly missing essential components (certain parts were floating), which required a certain camera angle to ensure that this wasn't visible.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/roller-conveyor--3
Another model which was focussed on industry. Materials and lighting effects are used to create a more interesting render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/root-blower
These goggles presented the unique problem of having a large portion of the model transparent. Reflections are used on the transparent section to ensure that it can still be seen. A single solid model made setup difficult.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/safety-glasses--3
Although this model appears to be constructed out of many different components, there were only 3 separate components in the model file. This, combined with a low res mesh, made setup very difficult.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/scissor-lift--5
Another very basic model where bare metal featured prominently in the design. Component highlights and lighting are used to increase interest.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/scissor-lift-assembly
Another single material model, made more interesting by adding a texture. The setup of this model was impeded by the design: the claws of the scorpion touch the ground before the front feet.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/scorpion-scorpion-puzzle-3d-model-puzzle-sheetmetal-woodcraft
Another industrial model made more interesting by using coloured lights and materials on certain highlighted components.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/shield-support-suspension-section
Another model with a very low profile. The model came as one single component, which did not aid setup.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/shopping-cart--2
Another bracelet using a relevant SSS material, also enabling the components underneath the surface to be visible.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/silicon-bracelet
This sink was a very basic (and purely aesthetic) model. Effective materials and lighting conditions were key for a pleasing render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/sink--1
The larger components of this model obscured most of the smaller ones, hence a transparent material was used to alleviate this problem.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/sistema-de-rodagem
Textured materials were used to add interest to an otherwise basic chair. Warm lighting emphasises the colours in the materials used.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/sofy-renders
The use of a SSS material to approximate bone made this an extremely long render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/solid-part-skull
A TV would more commonly be shown from the front, but a rear view shows the various connectors.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/sony-tv
This was another thin and reflective object which was difficult to show effectively.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/spiral-lamp
The use of various metals and painted metal give this engine a classic appearance.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/stirling-engine-model
Another basic industrial object which was helped by creative lighting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/stop-valve--5
The customisable nature of this table, combined with basic geometry made it difficult to work with, but I'm happy with the end result.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/table-aluminium-profiles
This steam engine was very complicated and took a long time to setup, but was very rewarding when rendered.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/tangye-horizontal-twin-cylinder-steam-engine
Another large reflective object with a thin profile. Showing accurate scale was an issue that I tried to overcome.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/tesla-tower
Another industrial object made more interesting with various metals.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/torque-convertor
The many components in this model had little variety, and close attention was paid to lighting and materials to make an effective render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/torsen-differential-mechanism
This was a very interesting and unusual model to work with. My lack of knowledge in this area was overcome by high quality reference images.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/tourbillon
This was a very high poly model, which despite appearances did not have rotational symmetry. A lot of time was spent on setup.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/tracked-omniwheel
This jet engine came in separate components which greatly reduced setup time.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/trent-1000-high-bypass-turbofan
This object was modelled precisely, which enabled materials to create an accurate render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/triangle--1
Another industrial model with basic geometry, which was not helped by a low density mesh.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/trike-skeleton-body
Transparent materials were used on this highly accurate model to try and show all components. The model being a cross section certainly helped.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/triple-spool-high-bypass-turbofan-engine
This model came in an exploded view, which helped when visualising the components.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/turbina-turbine-turbo-compressor
This model came with a cross section, which helped when it came to visualise the otherwise hidden important interior components.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/turbocharger--1
Unlike other similar models, this object is not exploded not does it have a cross-section, but it does show the object as it would appear in real life.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/turbocharger--4
Despite the overall complex appearance of the model, the individual components were simple.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/twin-cylinder-steam-engine--1
This otherwise basic model with a thin profile was made more interesting by use of carefully optimised materials and coloured lighting.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/vintage-dirt-bike-rear-wheel
One of the most basic objects possible showing that lack of components or materials does not mean a boring render.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/water-closet
Another large scale object with a thin profile, necessitating the use of two models, one to show overall appearance and one for close up detail.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/wind-turbine--8
This simple model was made more attractive by duplicating the object so that various sizes were shown.
Model courtesy of: http://grabcad.com/library/wrench--16
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GrabCAD Examples
These images were made to practise making renders from files from other sources. All images seen here were made within 3 weeks, at an average of nearly 9 renders per day. All images were made with Maxwell Render. All models used are from the popular CAD model sharing site www.grabcad.com. Reference to the source model is given in each image.
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