FAA 3D Weather System Animation
IDEAS2IMAGE worked with AvMet and the FAA to create a 3D animation that conveyed the information density of the NextGen weather System.
Project Synopsis
In support of AvMet Applications Incorporated’s (AvMet) contract with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), IDEAS2IMAGE created a 3D animation to explain the the density of information that will be available in the next generation of weather forecasting. The animation had to deal with large disparities of scale—from a view of the earth to a square meter. IDEAS2IMAGE helped to conceptualize this visualization to effectively communicate the sequence.
We worked with AvMet to develop the initial subject matter and visual approach to the sequence. IDEAS2IMAGE delivered step-by-step storyboards to detail the visual flow of the animation, created models, and arranged the animation. Using high resolution images, we created a realistic model of the Earth, which included light that automatically came on as the surface rotated into shadow. We modeled a number of weather sensors, and integrated the renders into a complete animation to tell the story of NextGen Weather.
Process: Learn–Solve–Deliver
3D graphics provide spectacular images that can capture realism or worlds of whimsy. Despite the artistic results, the process of creating 3D graphics is one of discipline and planning. A 3D model must be built from a virtual mesh, then undergo a lengthy rendering stage to generate an image. Because post-render changes are very time consuming, IDEAS2IMAGE spends time to thoroughly articulate the communication and stylistic goals of an image before a model is built. We employ visual tools to identify a precise visual treatment of the final graphic, and develop a shared understanding of how an image should look.
We solve the communication problem be creating models that are efficiently built to reduce render time, and textured with surfaces that match the goals of the project. We look for ways to cut down on production overhead, by using image compositing for elements that are not close to the virtual camera.
Before IDEAS2IMAGE renders a final image, we provide draft samples to ensure that the composition or animation matches your expectation for the piece. We reference our planning tools throughout the modeling stage to keep the 3D production in line with the vision. The renders that we provide are as precise as they are beautiful.
