Class Animation and Modeling 3D I

This curricular unit, theoretical-practical in nature, is dedicated to exploring the fundamental principles of three-dimensional object modelling, including UV mapping, texture baking, and the creation and application of textures, oriented towards the integration of 3D assets into game engines. The unit features a robust practical component, designed to consolidate the theoretical content covered in class. To this end, it is structured around guided exercises in which students apply the methodologies and techniques introduced, as well as the development of a project carried out throughout the semester.

Not applicable

3D Modelling Pipeline I: pre-production, 3D modelling, UV mapping, texture baking, textures, shading, and offline rendering. Use of polygonal modelling and texturing tools for three-dimensional objects. 3D geometry optimisation. Advanced 3D modelling techniques and methodologies applied to surface subdivision, with the aim of producing models intended for integration into game engines. Concept of 2D mapping (UV). Creation and editing of UV maps. Texture baking: normal, metalness, and roughness maps. Texture creation in Substance Painter. Creation of PBR materials from albedo, normal, metalness, and roughness textures. Texture application in Maya (Hypershade).

The course adopts innovative methodologies, such as active learning approaches, in which the instructor acts as a mediator to stimulate critical thinking. It is also integrated with two other subjects and their respective instructors. Teaching is project-oriented, emphasizing group work, peer review, and problem-solving. Student support is further complemented outside the classroom through the Discord platform. The course combines theory and practice in the development of independent projects, exercises, a practical test, and a final project, which fosters the exploration of concepts and techniques, multidisciplinary integration, and autonomous working processes. Classes, with an expository component supported by guided exercises, promote the assimilation of knowledge and the clarification of doubts, thereby creating a participatory environment between students and instructor.

Acampora, P. (2026). 3D Game Development with Blender 5 and Unity 6: Create immersive 3D games in Blender and Unity using a real-time, elegant workflow, Packt Publishing. Chopine, Ami (2011). 3D Art Essentials: The Fundamentals of 3D Modeling, Texturing, and Animation, Focal Press. Dower, J. & Langdale, P. (2022). Performing for Motion Capture: A Guide for Practitioners, Methuen Drama. Harris, D. & Wiltshire, A. (2022). Making Videogames: The Art of Creating Digital Worlds, ‎ Thames & Hudson. Kitagawa, M. (2020). MoCap for Artists: Workflow and Techniques for Motion Capture, Routledge. O'Neill, R. (2015). Digital Character Development: Theory and Practice. Boca Raton: CRC Press. Pearson, L. & Youkhana, S. (2026). Videogame Architecture: Building Virtual Spaces, Thames & Hudson. Williams, R. (2001). The Animator's Survival Kit. London - New York: Fabber and Fabber Zarins, U. and Kondrats, S. (2018). Anatomy for Scultores, Understandig the Human Figure. Printed in EU: Exonicus, LLC