Generate images from 3D models to provide
a compelling visual experience
RealThings are created for today's two-and-a-half dimension
desktops but to achieve realism we use bitmap images generated
from 3D models. Three-dimensional modeling tools typically
provide the ability to control camera orientation, to capture
bitmaps from different angles, and can provide impressive
lighting effects with reflections and shading accurately
rendered. The best part is that rendering isn't real-time, it's
done during development so you can spend as much time as you want
creating a truly compelling image.
The bitmaps should be taken with a camera nearly perpendicular to the surface you want to render so that controls such as buttons, sliders, and entry fields will look natural when mapped onto the surfaces. For the RealPhone we used an angle of about ten degrees so the user can clearly see the edges of the tray that slides out from the front of the phone.
As processor speed and our ability to render 3D objects in real time increases we will be able to render the 3D models in real-time and permit alternate viewing points.