MBI Graduate program: ME:120.722

Introduction to 3D Modeling & Animation

Offered: Fall Term, First Year
Instructors: David Rini, Professor, Lead Instructor
Credits: 3 credit hours

summary

This course introduces Cinema 4D as a tool for creating 3D assets for illustration and animation. Essential topics include user interface, setting up reference images, modeling techniques, materials and textures, lighting, rendering, camera placement and movement, dynamic simulations, and animation. Students will develop skills to create and animate 3D models of organic and non-organic structures gaining a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of 3D content creation. Outcomes include a proficiency in C4D and Redshift and the establishment of a 3D asset library for future projects.

Course Description

Objectives

Import and set up drawings and photos as references for modeling.
Model a variety of objects, both organic and non-organic, using appropriate techniques such as polygonal, Sub-D, NURBS, and Volume modeling.
Utilize Deformers and MoGraph Generators, including Cloners and Effectors, to enhance creativity and efficiency.
Create and assign materials and textures to realistically mimic real-world appearances.
Design impactful lighting setups to accurately convey form and scale.
Animate objects with techniques such as Keyframing and Dynamic Simulations.

Resources

Instructional Materials:

In-class and pre-recorded video demonstrations.
Online tutorials via Cineversity (Maxon) and LinkedIn Learning (Johns Hopkins Enterprise account)

Tools and Software:

Mac Studio Pro computers with dual monitors, including Apple Cinema Display.
MaxonOne licenses with Cinema 4D and Redshift render software
Stylus-based input devices (e.g., Wacom tablets).

Assignments

Students will develop their skills through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, tutorials, in-class exercises, and independent assignments. Examples of assignments include:

Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, and Rendering:

- Neuro suction tube (class demonstration).
- Surgical retractors.
- Electrocautery/Bovie.
- Bard Parker scalpel handle with #15 blade.
- Red and white blood cells.
- Neurosurgical hemostatic clips (Raney).
- Animated lipid bilayer.
- A cell with pseudopodia or dendrites (keyframed).
- Various cellular processes (e.g., apoptosis, extravasation, phagocytosis).
- Vessel with animated blood flow.

3D Asset Library

Students will be tasked with creating a 3D Asset Library to store Cinema 4D scenes and models developed during this class. They will be encouraged to expand their library throughout the program and beyond, ensuring quick access to reusable resources for future projects.

Student Evaluations

Students will be evaluated and graded based on class attendance/participation, effort, and effective problem solving, as well as the successful completion and quality of the assignments. Students are expected to dedicate class time to working in 3D, additional out of class work time will be required for assignments and tutorials.

Schedule

Refer to 1st year calendars and syllabi.

Student Artwork

Gallery of 3D Modeling & Beginning Animation

The health and wellness of students are of utmost importance to us here at Johns Hopkins. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or other wellbeing-related concerns, please consider contacting Mental Health Services at 410-955-1892 or one of the other wellness resources within Student Health and Well-Being. If you are concerned about a friend, please encourage that person to seek out support. If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance for a mental health concern, please call the Behavioral Health Crisis Support Team at 410-516-9355.

Students who would like to request disability-based accommodations should contact the Disabilities Service Coordinator, Ellen Kaplan, at [email protected] or complete the online accommodations application. Documentation guidelines are provided on the application.