Real Time 3D

Real time has two meanings in the 3D game. it relates to the instant interaction with the viewer and the ability of an interface to generate views from a 3D model instantly. Both concepts are relatively new and in development.

Real time interaction comes in a few forms and all normally struggle with the user interface. While the interface itself can be almost limitless the person controlling it must have the ability to use it, which is the biggest hurdle. When coupled with a real-time 3D model, such as modern computer games, there is often a small learning curve involved as the user comes to understand and comfortably interact – something that is unacceptable in a sales situation (online or offline) but fine for a computer game.

Real Time 3D is created by combining a highly optimized 3D scene with the ability of a powerful video card. Each frame of video is generated instantly and the the speed of the graphics card combined with the complexity of the scene determines just how fast it can be played back. Unfortunately quality is lost due to the need for such fast frame generation and the 3D scene cant be too complex or it will exceed the available memory of the video card.

Archiform 3D came up with Meander™ to provide a hybrid real-time solution. The user interaction is stripped back to simplistic buttons and the hard work of processing the scene is done on a powerful render farm before the viewer sees it, simplifying the user experience and putting no limit on the quality of the presentation.

< Back to glossary