Software Blender Research Articles

Applying 3D Models of Giant Salamanders to Explore Form-Function Relationships in Early Digit-Bearing Tetrapods.

Extant salamanders are used as modern analogs of early digit-bearing tetrapods due to general similarities in morphology and ecology, but the study species have been primarily terrestrial and relatively smaller when the earliest digit-bearing tetrapods were aquatic and an order of magnitude larger. Thus, we created a 3D computational model of underwater walking in extant Japanese giant salamanders (Andrias japonicus) using 3D photogrammetry and open-access graphics software (Blender) to broaden the range of testable hypotheses about the incipient stages of terrestrial locomotion. Our 3D model and software protocol represent the initial stages of an open-access pipeline that could serve as a "one-stop-shop" for studying locomotor function, from creating 3D models to analyzing the mechanics of locomotor gaits. While other pipelines generally require multiple software programs to accomplish the different steps in creating and analyzing computational models of locomotion, our protocol is built entirely within Blender and fully customizable with its Python scripting so users can devote more time to creating and analyzing models instead of navigating the learning curves of several software programs. The main value of our approach is that key kinematic variables (e.g. speed, stride length, and elbow flexion) can be easily altered on the 3D model, allowing scientists to test hypotheses about locomotor function and conduct manipulative experiments (e.g. lengthening bones) that are difficult to perform in vivo. The accurate 3D meshes (and animations) generated through photogrammetry also provide exciting opportunities to expand the abundance and diversity of 3D digital animals available for researchers, educators, artists, conservation biologists, etc. to maximize societal impacts.

A simple and free software-based inferior alveolar nerve protector surgical guide in bilateral sagittal split osteotomy

ObjectivesThis technical note introduces a novel concept of a alveolar inferior nerve protector guide during orthognathic surgery based on a free-software creation and printing. Technical NoteOrthognathic surgery using Virtual Surgical Planning software like Dolphin Imaging ® v 11.9 facilitated a bimaxillary procedure with mandible advancement and occlusal plane correction, later followed by 3D printing of splints. The process involved importing a composite skull with osteotomies into Blender ® software, where solids were added and edited to match Dolphin's osteotomies, ensuring bone contact without distortion. The guide creation was performed adhering to bilateral sagittal split osteotomy principles, maintaining precision, resulting in preserved inferior alveolar nerve and faster operation times compared to non-guided procedures, as demonstrated by postoperative CT scans. ConclusionsIntegrating advanced tools like Blender software into maxillofacial surgery represents a significant advancement. Despite challenges like the absence of specific manuals for this purpose in Blender, using such software offers innovative and cost-effective solutions. Developing user-friendly resources tailored to surgical applications such as a protector guide within Blender can enhance its usability and improve surgical outcomes and patient care, leading to groundbreaking advancements in maxillofacial surgery.

Virtual reality applied as a teaching tool: 3D virtual tour at IFMT Tangará da Serra

This work aims to develop a virtual tour of the IFMT Tangará da Serra campus facilities using 3D modeling and Virtual Reality (VR) to be applied in the discipline of introduction to Computer Graphics of the technical course of Maintenance and Support in Informatics integrated to High School. VR allows the interaction and navigation of users in 3D environments maintained by computer, using mapping channels and analysis of user behavior, enabling the exchange of information between the virtual environment and the user, affecting one or more human senses. It is an interaction and entertainment technology that can be successfully applied to assist in teaching strategies in high school subjects. With the evolution of education, that is, the improvement of the processes of exploration, discovery, observation and construction of knowledge, new teaching tools have been emerging, among which virtual learning environments stand out because they allow people to conduct experiments or perform tasks in a new and different way that they could not do in the physical/real world, such as flying, visiting places that do not exist or are difficult to access through the manipulation and analysis of the object of study itself. Thus, VR will be fundamental in this process of educational evolution, where the use of digital tools such as ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) is increasingly sought for the successful application of active teaching methodologies in the classroom. Therefore, the objective of this project refers to the development of an interactive VR system to be used with 3D VR glasses, designed, modeled and rendered using the free software Blender, to present a virtual tour of the facilities of the IFMT Tangará da Serra campus. This tool will be very useful for demonstrating computer graphics concepts to students, as well as to the external community, as a form of institutional promotion and marketing.

The Evaluation of the Trueness of Dental Mastercasts Obtained through Different 3D Printing Technologies.

In contemporary dentistry, several 3D printing techniques, including a stereolithography apparatus (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), liquid crystal display (LCD), and PolyJet 3D inkjet printing technology (PolyJet), are employed for model production. Despite their widespread use, there remains a paucity of the literature regarding the trueness and precision of these devices in dental applications. Existing studies comparing the accuracy of dental models manufactured by different printing technologies yield disparate conclusions regarding dental prosthesis manufacturing. This study aimed to test two null hypotheses: first, that the trueness of various new-generation 3D printers is equivalent, and second, that the trueness of printing by these printers is sufficient for achieving high-precision mastercasts in dental prosthodontics manufacturing. The research focuses on evaluating the trueness of five contemporary dental 3D printers: Anycubic Mono X 6Ks (Hongkong Anycubic Technology Co., Hongkong, China), Asiga Max (Asiga, Sydney, Australia), Creo C5 (Planmeca Oy, Helsinki, Finland), Form 3B (Formlabs, Boston, MA, USA), and J5 Dentajet (Stratasys Ltd., Eden Prairie, MN, USA). The methodology employed involved the creation of a digital test object using Blender software, adhering meticulously to the dimensions outlined in ISO standard 20896-1. These dimensions were chosen to be both relevant for this study and representative of clinical scenarios. Subsequently, the test object was printed and precise measurements were conducted utilizing a metrology-type Nikon XTH225 ST Reflection target in conjunction with VGStudio MAX analysis software. The results of our investigation revealed clinically negligible deviations in ball dimensions across all printers, with the maximum observed deviations ranging between 1.17% and 2.03% (notably observed in the Creo C5 printer). Transversal distortion exhibited variance based on the linear accuracy of each printer, with Stratasys21 and Formlabs 3B demonstrating superior accuracy among the evaluated printers. Distortions in the analyzed dimensions (specifically, anterior b-c, posterior a-d, and oblique a-c) were found to be uniform. In conclusion, while the first null hypothesis was rejected, indicating variations in trueness among the 3D printers assessed, our findings affirm the suitability of all five analyzed 3D printers for clinical applications. Consequently, these printers can be utilized for the fabrication of high-precision mastercasts in dental prosthodontics manufacturing.

Mapping and animating Star Wars Millennium Falcon hyperspace jumping base on Blender

Science fiction movies are fictional, which means that most of the elements portrayed are not real but rather imaginative. For most space operas, writers often devise creative solutions to overcome the limitations imposed by the speed of light, such as the concept of hyperspace in "Star Wars" to bypass speed restrictions. This study aimed to celebrate the 47th Force Day in 2024 by using the non-commercial software Blender to recreate the iconic Disney version of hyperspace jumping visual effects. The research effort included reproducing both the hyperspace flyby scene and the scene of a spaceship jumping out of hyperspace, showcasing stunning visual effects achieved through Blender's rendering and special effects capabilities. In the context of the Disney version of hyperspace jumping featuring a swirling blue tunnel, the research team meticulously modeled and rendered the spaceship's traversal through hyperspace within Blender. Additionally, the paper employed special effects techniques to recreate the spectacular moment of the spaceship emerging from hyperspace, capturing the visual allure of Disney's interpretation of hyperspace jumping. The results demonstrate the feasibility of this endeavor, albeit with potential technical flaws.

3D technologies in STEAM education

The article presents the application of 3D technologies in STEAM education through a conducted scientific research, highlighting the role of 3D modeling and 3D printing as an innovative approach in achieving an interdisciplinary learning model. The research included the following stages: preparation for designing a detailed 3D steam locomotive model; analysis of process difficulties; giving students and lecturers the opportunity to perform a specific modeling task, using basic primitives from solid geometry, as well as a questionnaire to analyze and evaluate the skills and knowledge of the participants in the 3D modeling field. In this context, the preparation process of a 3D steam locomotive model for educational purposes, using Autodesk 3ds Max software, is presented, and the 3D printing technology FDM is examined. We issued a challenge to the participants in the research to design a non-complex 3D model, using unfamiliar 3D modeling software Blender, within a limited time. The questionnaire covered topics in education, science, art, STEAM, and 3D modeling. The goal is to showcase the role of the integration of 3D technologies in educational environments with the idea of developing key skills and knowledge in learners.

Modeling of Resident Space Object Light Curves with Blender Software

Modeling of Resident Space Object Light Curves with Blender Software

3D facial reconstruction and 3D printing of women skull from Bronze age, Slovakia

Facial reconstruction of individuals from historical periods can provide more information about them. The main aim of this study was to create an anthropological facial reconstruction of a Bronze Age skull based on a new soft tissue thickness database created from a sample of the Slovak female population. Using ultrasound, we evaluated 27 facial landmarks on 50 Slovak women, aged 18–30 years with Slovak genealogical history. The Bronze Age skull was anthropologically estimated as a Caucasoid female aged 24–30 years at the time of death. The ultrasound results were analysed and compared with nine European populations. Statistical analysis showed that there is no statistical difference between these populations in the values of facial soft tissue thicknesses. Using CT and Blender software with add-ons, we created a facial approximation of the skull. We 3D printed the virtual model, which can be used for educational and scientific purposes.

Integrating Data from Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with LiDAR for BIM Developing

Abstract. The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in building construction and management is becoming increasingly common. Nevertheless, the generation of BIM models for already existing buildings is still an operation requiring a significant human effort. The generation of a geometrically reliable and complete BIM model requires geometric information on all the building parts. Since acquiring such information with a unique acquisition tool is quite hard, integration of data acquired with different acquisition tools and platforms is strongly recommended in order to obtain a geometrically complete 3D description of the building. This work presents a procedure for integrating data acquired with Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and Smartphone with LiDAR, showing the obtained results on two case studies, two buildings in the campus of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn. Finally, a BIM model have been successfully generated in both the case studies by using the Blender software.

Analysis of the effect of porosity on thermal conductivity with consideration of the internal structure of arbolite

A theoretical study of the effect of porosity and internal structure of the exterior envelope in the ANSYS and BLENDER software systems has been carried out in the paper. As an example of exterior enclosure structure, an arbolite block with porosity up to 20% and fiber structure in the direction along and across the heat flux, as well as randomly and at an angle of 45° was studied. As a result of the study, it was found that the significant effect of the heat flux dependence on the porosity of the material is the porosity of the block over 10%, which reached up to 5.92%, and with porosity up to 5% showed a difference of 1.3%. At the same time, the fiber structure also showed a significant difference from 8.16% to 15.33% depending on the fiber direction. At the same time, the analysis of the effect of porosity on the thermal conductive value also showed a difference of up to 15.33% for the same value of heat flux. At the same time, the influence of fiber structure shows an additional difference of up to 5.9%. The results of the study showed that the most thermally conductive arbolite blocks are, those in which the direction of fibers are located along (along the X axis) and at 45 ° relative to the structure of fibers across (along the Y axis) and random, the difference of which was up to 1.6%. The obtained results of this study, further excluding the costly experiments to determine the coefficient of thermal conductivity can be used to accurately estimate the coefficient of thermal conductivity of external envelopes made of arbolite blocks, considering porosity and fiber structure in the design of residential buildings.

Prompt determination of predictive parameters for mining-technogenic landscape objects

The presented research is aimed at developing tools for quickly determining the geometric parameters of mining-technogenic landscape objects to solve various geotechnical and engineering problems, such as reclamation of lands disturbed by mining operations, as well as accumulated industrial waste utilization. The task of quickly determining the geometric parameters of the mining-technogenic landscape forms is proposed to be performed using the Blender software product for 3D-modeling and the Blender GIS Addon. The 3D models for mining-technogenic landscape objects have been constructed. In addition, the volumes of mined-out space at the granite quarry, the earth’s surface failure zone at the iron-ore mine and the mine waste rock dump have been determined. As a result, the values obtained were compared with actual data. It has been found that with the correct display of mining-technogenic landscape objects in the Google geospatial system, the proposed tools based on the Blender GIS Addon achieve high accuracy in determining parameters. The proposed method is predictive and cannot be independent, and it must be used in synthesis with surveying measurements of the parameters for mining-technogenic landscape objects and is a kind of a certain addition. However, it allows solving large-scale strategic problems in geoengineering.

Visualization of Solar Radiation Using Three-Dimensional Computer Graphics Technologies

Currently, the prediction, calculation and rationing of solar radiation is a serious problem that has a wide impact on the spheres of human activity. Creating and maintaining a comfortable living environment, as well as solving the world's energy problems, are the fundamental criteria that determine its relevance. This article discusses the possibility of using three-dimensional graphics technologies to calculate insolation. The paper considers an algorithm for calculating the four main components of the visualization of global solar radiation: direct beam radiation, diffuse radiation, reflected beam radiation and reflected diffuse radiation. The freely distributed open source software Blender 3D is used as a tool for working with computer graphics. In the course of the study, calculations based on the principle of bidirectional path tracing, which is used in the visualization algorithms of the Cycles graphics engine, are presented. The use of the technology of transferring complex data to the raster image format allows you to create a separate texture map for each component of the simulated lighting. Based on the obtained texture maps, it is possible to calculate the global solar radiation for all created or imported 3D models in the three-dimensional space of Blender 3D.

Reliability and Agreement of Free Web-Based 3D Software for Computing Facial Area and Volume Measurements

Background: Facial surgeries require meticulous planning and outcome assessments, where facial analysis plays a critical role. This study introduces a new approach by utilizing three-dimensional (3D) imaging techniques, which are known for their ability to measure facial areas and volumes accurately. The purpose of this study is to introduce and evaluate a free web-based software application designed to take area and volume measurements on 3D models of patient faces. Methods: This study employed the online facial analysis software to conduct ten measurements on 3D models of subjects, including five measurements of area and five measurements of volume. These measurements were then compared with those obtained from the established 3D modeling software called Blender (version 3.2) using the Bland–Altman plot. To ensure accuracy, the intra-rater and inter-rater reliabilities of the web-based software were evaluated using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) method. Additionally, statistical assumptions such as normality and homoscedasticity were rigorously verified before analysis. Results: This study found that the web-based facial analysis software showed high agreement with the 3D software Blender within 95% confidence limits. Moreover, the online application demonstrated excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability in most analyses, as indicated by the ICC test. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the free online 3D software is reliable for facial analysis, particularly in measuring areas and volumes. This indicates its potential utility in enhancing surgical planning and evaluation in facial surgeries. This study underscores the software’s capability to improve surgical outcomes by integrating precise area and volume measurements into facial surgery planning and assessment processes.

Environmental uses of sculpture at the University of Basrah

The current study is concerned with highlighting the importance of sculptural work in terms of its environmental use within the spaces of the University of Basra and the aesthetic and environmental treatments it creates within those spaces. Therefore, in this thesis, the researcher sought to present proposed sculptural designs. Implemented by computer through the Blender program, which specializes in creating three-dimensional models. The study included four chapters:Chapter One: Research Framework This chapter presents the research problem, which is summarized in the question: "How can the environmental utilization of sculptural work address the spaces of the University of Basrah?" The significance of the research is discussed, emphasizing the need to shed light on the important aspects that motivated this study. The research's objective is to develop proposed sculptural designs for environmentally addressing the University of Basrah's spaces and utilizing the environmental elements of the university environment.Chapter Two: Theoretical Framework and Previous Studies. This chapter is divided into two sections: Section one: Concept of the Environment and Its Types, Section two: Functions of the sculptural work, and the Chapter three (research procedures): This chapter explains the research methodology and the research sample, It also covers the analysis of the research sample. Chapter four: (Results and Conclusions) This chapter presents the key findings and conclusions of the study, including: Empty spaces are creatively and environmentally utilized through artistic treatment methods using Blender software for 3D modeling, resulting in sculptural designs that reflect the social or historical characteristics of the place.

CRAFTING AND MODIFYING RHINE CASTLE MODELS WITH PARAMETRIC MODELING IN BLENDER

Abstract. In the domain of architectural heritage conservation, the recent advancements in 3D modeling have significantly improved the reconstruction fidelity of historical edifices, particularly medieval castles of the Rhine region. The existing traditional 3D modeling methodologies, though precise, are laborious and exceedingly time-consuming, requiring a detailed focus on intricate architectural nuances. Advancements in Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology have played a key role in simplifying this process, offering an adaptable and parametric approach to architectural modeling. Nonetheless, the domain of Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) faces the distinctive challenge of scarce parametric object libraries that are suitably representative of historical heritage, compounded by the architectural heterogeneity inherent in these ancient structures.This paper presents a novel methodology utilizing the Blender software suite, with an emphasis on exploiting ”Geometry Nodes” and ”Modifiers” for parametric modeling. We introduce a technique that significantly enhances the efficiency of modeling Rhine castles. This method supports rapid alterations and precise customization, catering to the specific analytical needs of archaeologists and heritage researchers. The proposed approach aims to bridge the gap in HBIM by providing a flexible, dynamic toolset for the accurate digital preservation of historical architecture.

Intrahepatic and anterior course of the inferior vena cava: CT image and 3D reconstruction of a rare anatomical variation.

The widespread use of computed tomography (CT) for diagnosing and screening abdominal conditions often reveals rare, asymptomatic anomalies. There is a wide range of documented congenital variations in the anatomy of the inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic veins. In this report, we detail an exceptionally unusual variant of the IVC that follows a frontward and intraliver course, terminating at the anterior section of the right atrium. To gain a deeper insight into this anomaly, we employed 3D reconstruction techniques using the software Slicer and Blender.

Synthetic Training Data in AI-Driven Quality Inspection: The Significance of Camera, Lighting, and Noise Parameters.

Industrial-quality inspections, particularly those leveraging AI, require significant amounts of training data. In fields like injection molding, producing a multitude of defective parts for such data poses environmental and financial challenges. Synthetic training data emerge as a potential solution to address these concerns. Although the creation of realistic synthetic 2D images from 3D models of injection-molded parts involves numerous rendering parameters, the current literature on the generation and application of synthetic data in industrial-quality inspection scarcely addresses the impact of these parameters on AI efficacy. In this study, we delve into some of these key parameters, such as camera position, lighting, and computational noise, to gauge their effect on AI performance. By utilizing Blender software, we procedurally introduced the "flash" defect on a 3D model sourced from a CAD file of an injection-molded part. Subsequently, with Blender's Cycles rendering engine, we produced datasets for each parameter variation. These datasets were then used to train a pre-trained EfficientNet-V2 for the binary classification of the "flash" defect. Our results indicate that while noise is less critical, using a range of noise levels in training can benefit model adaptability and efficiency. Variability in camera positioning and lighting conditions was found to be more significant, enhancing model performance even when real-world conditions mirror the controlled synthetic environment. These findings suggest that incorporating diverse lighting and camera dynamics is beneficial for AI applications, regardless of the consistency in real-world operational settings.

Technical note: A volumetric method for measuring the longitudinal arch of human tracks and feet.

Fossil footprints (i.e., tracks) were believed to document arch anatomical evolution, although our recent work has shown that track arches record foot kinematics instead. Analyses of track arches can thereby inform the evolution of human locomotion, although quantifying this 3-D aspect of track morphology is difficult. Here, we present a volumetric method for measuring the arches of 3-D models of human tracks and feet, using both Autodesk Maya and Blender software. The method involves generation of a 3-D object that represents the space beneath the longitudinal arch, and measurement of that arch object's geometry and spatial orientation. We provide relevant tools and guidance for users to apply this technique to their own data. We present three case studies to demonstrate potential applications. These include, (1) measuring the arches of static and dynamic human feet, (2) comparing the arches of human tracks with the arches of the feet that made them, and (3) direct comparisons of human track and foot arch morphology throughout simulated track formation. The volumetric measurement tool proved robust for measuring 3-D models of human tracks and feet, in static and dynamic contexts. This tool enables researchers to quantitatively compare arches of fossil hominin tracks, in order to derive biomechanical interpretations from them, and/or offers a different approach for quantifying foot morphology in living humans.

Virtual reconstruction of stone tool refittings by using 3D modelling and the Blender Engine: The application of the "ReViBE" protocol to the archaeological record.

Visual representation of material culture plays a crucial role in prehistoric archaeology, from academic research to public outreach and communication. Scientific illustration is a valuable tool for visualising lithic artefacts and refittings, where technical attributes must be drawn to enhance our understanding of their significance. However, the representation of lithic refittings, which involve dynamic and sequential transformations of a volume, requires an alternative approach to traditional two-dimensional models such as photography or illustration. Advances in imaging technologies have improved our ability to capture and communicate the multifaceted nature of archaeological artefacts. In this context, we present the ReViBE protocol (Refitting Visualisation using Blender Engine), which integrates photogrammetry, 3D modelling and the animation software Blender© for the virtual representation of lithic refittings. This protocol allows the sequential study of core reduction phases and their associated flakes, as well as other aspects related to knapping decision making (core rotations, surface modifications, and direction and position of impact points). Thus, this method allows the visualisation of techno-cognitive aspects involved in core reduction through a step-by-step animation process. In addition, the 3D models and virtual reconstructions generated by ReViBE can be accessed through open repositories, in line with the principles of open science and FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data. This accessibility ensures that data on lithic technology and human behaviour are widely available, promoting transparency and knowledge sharing, and enabling remote lithic analysis. This in turn breaks down geographical barriers and encourages scientific collaboration.

Student learning of engineering systems through simulation-based design using Onshape and Blender

This study examines how the introductory engineering course can engage students in learning Industry 4.0 concepts and enhance their digital technology skills through simulation-based design activities. The students used cloud-based design and simulation tools to resolve a system operation problem. They examined the motion of a digital model of a satellite under micro-gravity conditions and detected its instability (Dzhanibekov effect). Then, they redesigned the model and verified its motion stability through simulation. The experimental setup combined the cloud-based CAD platform Onshape and the simulation software Blender. The students’ performances, understanding, and perceptions were evaluated using conventional research tools and the data analytics tools of Onshape. Findings showed that the students successfully performed the workshop assignment, correctly answered the questions about the factors that cause motion instability and appreciated the contribution of the workshop. The study demonstrated the potential of online simulation-based design practices for educating novice engineering students.