3D simulation technology: a magical power to change the world

When we explore the unknown world, we sometimes encounter phenomena that are difficult to directly observe or experience, such as the internal structure of the earth, the working principle of aircraft engines, etc. However, with the help of 3D simulation technology, we can present these complex phenomena in a realistic way, allowing people to understand them more intuitively. This article will take you into the world of 3D simulation technology and explore its definition, principles, application scenarios and development trends.

1. Overview of 3D simulation technology

3D simulation technology is a comprehensive technology based on computer graphics, physics and artificial intelligence. It imitates real-world objects and phenomena by building 3D models, scenes and parameters, and simulates and predicts them. This technology is characterized by high realism and immersion, while providing powerful data processing and visualization capabilities. 3D simulation technology has a wide range of applications, covering science, engineering, medicine, entertainment and other fields.

2. Principle of 3D simulation technology

The principle of 3D simulation technology mainly includes three steps: data acquisition, model building and simulation calculation. First, the geometric, physical and other data of real objects are obtained through data acquisition equipment; second, the 3D model is established using computer graphics technology, and fine modeling and texture mapping are performed based on the collected data; finally, the model is dynamically simulated and rendered through the physical engine and simulation algorithm to realistically reproduce the objects and phenomena in the real world.

3. Application scenarios of 3D simulation technology

Mechanical manufacturing: In the field of mechanical manufacturing, 3D simulation technology can be used to simulate product design and manufacturing processes. By simulating the performance of products under various working conditions, problems and deficiencies in the design can be discovered in advance, thereby reducing the cost of trial production and testing.

Application of 3D simulation technology in mechanical manufacturing

Architectural planning: In the field of architectural planning, 3D simulation technology can be used to build 3D models of cities or buildings, helping planners to more intuitively understand the spatial layout, sunlight analysis, and other aspects of the design plan, thereby improving planning quality and efficiency.

Education and scientific research: In the field of education and scientific research, 3D simulation technology can be used to simulate scientific experiments, engineering design and other processes to improve students' practical ability and understanding. At the same time, it can also provide researchers with a virtual experimental environment and data support to accelerate the scientific research process.

Fixed bed reaction virtual experiment

Game development: In the field of game development, 3D simulation technology can build a highly realistic and credible 3D environment, provide interactive and immersive gaming experience, enable players to get a more realistic gaming experience, and also create more exciting CG special effects.

Figure 4 The character is more agile under 3D simulation technology

Military exercises: In the military field, 3D simulation technology can provide a realistic and safe environment for military training, provide more realistic visual and sound experience for military training and actual combat, and improve soldiers' training level and actual combat capability.

4. Development trend of 3D simulation technology

First, from a technical perspective, 3D simulation technology will continue to develop and progress. Future 3D simulation systems will likely use more advanced algorithms and more powerful computing power to achieve higher realism and richer interactivity. Using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies, 3D simulation models can self-learn and adjust according to actual conditions, improving the accuracy and efficiency of simulation. For example, we may see 3D simulation systems use more advanced rendering technologies such as ray tracing and global illumination to achieve more realistic and vivid visual effects. At the same time, by using more powerful physics engines and artificial intelligence technologies, future 3D simulation systems will be able to simulate more complex phenomena and behaviors.

Secondly, 3D simulation technology will be more widely used in various fields and provide more help for social development. For example, in the medical field, 3D simulation technology can be used

Schematic diagram of human body structure made using 3D simulation technology

To simulate the development of the disease, help doctors better understand the condition and develop more effective treatment plans. In the field of architecture, by using 3D simulation technology, designers can more accurately predict the effect of the design, thereby optimizing the design and reducing the subsequent modification work. In addition, 3D simulation technology can also be used for education and training, allowing students or trainees to improve their skills or understand complex phenomena through simulation practice.

Finally, as technology advances and applications expand, the business model of 3D simulation systems will also change. Currently, most companies and institutions use 3D simulation technology mainly for research and development, but future business models may be more diversified. For example, we may see some companies profit from selling or leasing 3D simulation software or services. In addition, with the development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, 3D simulation technology may be combined with these technologies to form new business models.

Visitors use AR glasses to see the exhibition, combining the real street with the game interface

For example, by using VR and AR devices, users can interact with virtual objects in the real world, achieve more realistic three-dimensional rendering, and narrow the gap between virtual reality and the real world, thereby obtaining a richer experience.

5. Notes

Although 3D simulation technology has many advantages, there are also some issues that need to be paid attention to during use. First, we must protect our visual health and avoid watching high-brightness and high-contrast screens for a long time to prevent eye fatigue and visual damage. Secondly, we must abide by the regulations and use simulation equipment and software reasonably to avoid accidents or data loss caused by improper operation. In addition, we must pay attention to intellectual property and privacy issues and not disclose confidential or personal privacy information to irrelevant personnel.

In general, 3D simulation technology will continue to develop and progress in the future and will be applied in more fields. At the same time, as technology advances and its application scope expands, its business model will also change. Although the future is full of uncertainty, we can foresee that 3D simulation technology will play an increasingly important role in future development and make more contributions to the development and progress of human society.

This article is a work of Science Popularization China-Starry Sky Project

Produced by: Science Popularization Department of China Association for Science and Technology

Producer｜China Science and Technology Press Co., Ltd., Beijing Zhongke Xinghe Culture Media Co., Ltd.

Author: Zhao Jingyi and Chen Yidan, popular science creators

Review | Wang Wei, Researcher at Beijing Institute of General Artificial Intelligence