Phase One: Identifying 3D modelling apps for consideration
We identified thirty-two modelling apps for testing on iPhone, Google Pixel phone (Android), iPad, iPadPro, Samsung Galaxy Tablet, PC and Mac Desktop, and web. Not all modelling apps were compatible with all devices or platforms; however, our list included apps that provide a range of access options across devices. In some cases, the modelling apps were part of a scalable package of applications designed to offer different levels of complexity and functionality for novice to experienced users. ‘Scalable’ apps are included in the list as individual modelling apps for testing because subscription to each level of the app is separate. The modelling apps were created for consumers, designers, educators, industry professionals, and for commercial applications. They include apps for vector-based building with individual vertices/edges/faces or ready-made geometric forms, what we will hereto refer to as “geometric”; “clay sculpting” or modeling from a simple starting shape; the manipulation of meshes of imported or scanned 3D objects; and parametric design or building/manipulation through use of modifiers.
When selecting and testing the modelling apps additional considerations became apparent that would enable us to cater to individuals with different levels of experience, and simultaneously expand options for the types of projects we could workshop, support, and develop. As a result, the criteria for our selection of modelling apps for further testing included the following:
- a range of modelling apps to accommodate beginner, intermediate and advanced users but with a primary focus on users at a novice level for our purposes
- scalable options so work created in a beginner-level app can be exported and imported into more advanced applications for further development
- a range of modelling apps so several devices and platforms can be accommodated (for example, some modeling apps are browser-based meaning that they work best on a laptop or tablet and require a network connection to access; while others are exclusively mobile applications or downloadable software for Mac or PC but that can be used without a connection)
- a range of modelling apps to accommodate various types of projects including:
- geometric and clay sculpting from scratch
- geometric and clay sculpting using an imported scanned object
- conversion of 2D images into 3D objects
- development of scenes that use multiple objects
- basic animation of objects
- free or low-fee subscriptions, as well as free or subsidized options for students
Selected apps for review
Our search generated a list of 33 modelling apps and software for review.
Table 1: 3D modelling apps and software
After completing preliminary research and testing of each app or program, we identified the following prohibitive factors for use by the shARed spaces project:
- a paywall in the form of high monthly or yearly subscription fees, and/or in-app purchases at each stage of importing, modelling, exporting
- functionality and user interface too complex or not intuitive
- apps in Alpha or Beta testing phase, which means long-term accessibility and cost uncertain
- proprietary functionality, meaning the applications are designed to work in tandem with other applications offered (sold) by the same company in order to access full functionality
- limitations associated with importing and/or exporting files, which limits functionality
- the app required knowledge of coding rather than having a simple UI
Phase Two: Shortlisted apps and programs for testing
As a result of this first phase of testing, we shortlisted nine apps for deeper testing: 3D Modelling App: Design My Model Premium, 3D Modelling App: Sculpt and Draw, Blender, Mudbox, Nomad Sculpt, SculptGL, ZBrush Core, Womp, and ZBrush CoreMini.
In the case of Womp and ZBrush CoreMini, users cannot import files so we did not include these apps in further testing. However, it was noted that they are great sculpting apps for beginners to get a feel for digital sculpting tools. Objects can be exported from each of these apps and imported into another app, enabling the user to scaffold up to more complex applications. ZBrush CoreMini is specifically designed with this intention as it has two additional levels available - ZBrush Core and ZBrush - for intermediate and advanced users respectively.
During the second phase of testing, we prioritized no cost/low cost apps and programs, we focused on a range of apps to accommodate various devices and platforms, we considered functionality and level of difficulty, as well as compatibility for the scanning-to-modelling pathway.
Table 2: Shortlist of 3D modelling apps for further testing
The PDF document below provides a more detailed overview of the 3D modelling tests we conducted including: compatibility issues between selected 3D scanning apps and 3D modelling apps and software; the way object type and lighting conditions influenced compatibility; a comparison of the 3D modelling apps and software selected with attention to file formats, import/export pathways and associated issues, image files and mesh details, sculpting and painting options; and challenges when creating a production pathway.
