This unit requires the application of 3D digital modelling skills to prepare 3D models (including character models) to a high level of finish so they are ready for use in animations, high-end games, virtual worlds or specialist digital resource materials in areas such as medicine, architecture, engineering and aeronautics.

On small-scale productions, modellers also rig, build textures and create lighting. On larger projects, they may be required to liaise with riggers, texture and lighting artists. Even though work at this level is undertaken with minimum supervision, modellers are members of a production team and close collaboration with other team members is essential, as is an ability to deliver on schedule and to work under pressure.

As they develop their skills and interests, modellers may concentrate on different areas, such as characters, objects, environments and special effects. Aspects of these skills are covered in:

CUFANM402A Create digital visual effects

CUFANM501A Create 3D digital character animation

CUFANM502A Create 3D digital environments.

CUFANM310A Create 3D digital models

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Clarify work requirements

1. With reference to production documentation, clarify requirements and purpose for 3D digital models

2. In consultation with relevant personnel, clarify work flow sequences to ensure that production schedule deadlines are met

3. Select software that best suits the type of production and delivery platform for which 3D digital models are being prepared

4. Gather and analyse reference material to help with visualisation of final models

Prepare 3D models

5. Build and modify shaders to achieve required outcome

6. Apply texture coordinates or UV mapping as required

7. Paint required texture maps

8. Use appropriate lighting techniques to light the 3D models as required

9. Rig 3D models as required, ensuring that controls are logical and easy to use, and that rigs are robust and perform to specifications

10. Set up model deformations as required

11. Use scripting language as required to enhance the functionality of rigs

12. Create morph targets or blend shapes as required

Finalise 3D digital models

13. Test models to identify faults, and adjust as required

14. Submit final models to relevant personnel by agreed deadlines

15. Make back-up copies in accordance with enterprise procedures

16. Complete workplace documentation as required

17. Render final models as required

18. Review process of constructing 3D digital models and note areas for future improvement

Required skills

communication, teamwork and literacy skills sufficient to:

interpret and clarify written or verbal instructions

work collaboratively with other team members

respond constructively to feedback received from other team members

complete workplace documentation

technical skills sufficient to:

use the full range of features of industry-current software applications to prepare 3D digital models to specifications

follow design reference accurately and work in a range of styles

manage files and directories using standard naming conventions and version control protocols

make back-up copies of files on a continuous basis and store appropriately

initiative and creativity in the context of:

visualising and modelling 3D characters, props and environments to a high level of finish

analysing and solving problems as they arise during the modelling process

self-management, learning and planning skills sufficient to:

prioritise work tasks

meet deadlines

continuously improve skills and knowledge by keeping up to date with industry developments and new software features

seek expert assistance as required

Required knowledge

industry knowledge, including:

roles and responsibilities of project team members in the relevant industry sector

sound understanding of the relationship between the technical and creative aspects and requirements of productions in which 3D digital models are used

issues and challenges that arise in the context of preparing 3D digital models

well-developed drawing skills, including use of light and shadow

good understanding of anatomy

modelling techniques with polygons and NURBS

strong sense of scale, form, weight and volume

strong understanding of light, colour, composition and mood

technical parameters of various platforms and how these impact on the process of preparing 3D digital models

OHS standards as they relate to working for periods of time on computers

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the following is essential:

3D digital models created to a high level of finish that:

are robust and perform to specifications

demonstrate attention to detail

meet design and aesthetic requirements

collaborative approach to work

ability to meet deadlines.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure:

access to a selection of industry-current software as listed in the range statement

access to simulated or real production situations that require the preparation of 3D digital models

access to appropriate learning and assessment support when required

use of culturally appropriate processes and techniques appropriate to the language and literacy capacity of learners and the work being performed.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third-party workplace reports of on-the-job performance

evaluation of a range of 3D digital models prepared by the candidate to determine ability to create models in a range of styles

written or verbal questioning to test knowledge as listed in the required skills and knowledge section of this unit.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

BSBCRT402A Collaborate in a creative process

CUFANM402A Create digital visual effects

CUFANM501A Create 3D digital character animation

CUFANM502A Create 3D digital environments.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Production documentation may include:

animatics

brief

storyboard

technical specifications.

Requirements may include:

assets for integration

collaboration with other team members

creative expectations

design specifications

output format

technical specifications

timelines.

Purpose of 3D digital models may be for:

animations

digital simulations, e.g.:

architectural models

e-learning resource

demonstration of processes and procedures.

Relevant personnel may include:

3D designer or concept artist

3D modeller

art director

director

head of department

matte painter

producer

project manager

storyboard artist

supervisor

technical director

technical/specialist personnel.

Software may include:

graphics, e.g.

Illustrator

Photoshop

3D

3D Studio Max

Maya

Softimage.

Delivery platform may include:

broadcast television

CD

DVD

film

games console

internet

kiosk

mobile phone

mobile phone or other digital devices

personal digital assistant (PDA)

video.

Reference material may include:

books

concept drawings and designs

direct observation of actions to be simulated in 3D models

maquette

real objects on which models are to be based

still images

videos.

Application of texture coordinates involves:

efficient use of texture space

logical layout to facilitate ease of painting textures

minimal texture distortion

minimal texture seams.

Texture maps may include:

bump

colour

normal

reflection

specular

transparency.

Lighting techniques may include:

global illumination

image-based lighting

radiosity

simple lighting set-ups

vertex lighting.

Model deformations may include:

corrective morph targets

muscle simulations

skinning of model to rig

weighting of vertices

wrap deformers.

Scripting languages may include:

MAX

MEL

Python.

Unit sector

Visual communication - animation and digital effects

This unit contains employability skills.