A MULTI-USER VIRTUAL CAMPUS OF COR JESU COLLEGE, DIGOS CITY (Thesis S.Y 2014)
Creating 3D models
In creating the 3D models the study used four 3D modelling software programs: Sketchup, 3DS Max, iClone and Unity 3D. Sketchup is a 3D modelling software used in creating mesh models. Originally used in architecture and building modelling, Sketchup specializes in creating 3D models for buildings through mesh modelling. The advantage of Sketchup models is that these models are simpler to make than all the other programs. The second modelling software the study used was 3DS Max. Autodesk 3DS Max is a 3D computer graphics program for making 3D animations, models, and images. It is developed and produced by Autodesk Media and Entertainment. Frequently used by video game developers, many TV commercial studios and architectural visualization studios it is also used for movie effects and movie pre-visualization. 3DS Max is used for more complex models either through box modelling and spline modelling.
Development
In creating the multi-user virtual environment of Cor Jesu College, the study first gathered base data from various buildings and uniforms. The study then converted these base data into 3D models using the game engine and other 3D models using computers and laptops. After exporting all the models into the game engine, the program then attached the codes and procedures to create a multi-user functionality including the chat. Afterwards the MUVE was treated with optimization techniques to reduce the computational burden on the graphics and connection.
This is the default Cor Jesu's uniform Male and Female
Pre-Production
In recording visual data and topography, the study took pictures of Cor Jesu College Campus. The pictures were taken from a camera with a 1024 X 1024 pixel resolution. The pictures taken were those of the campus architecture and colors of the building. The study also took pictures of the uniforms in order to create appropriate character skins based on the existing divisions and courses. These included the uniforms of the Divisions of Business and Accountancy (DBA), the Teachers Education Division (TED), Computer Studies Division (CSD) and the nursing uniforms as well as the regular uniforms worn by the students. In creating the models, the study utilized computers and laptops with a minimum of 1GB RAM and Dual Core Processor, 1GB Graphics Card and a monitor/screen. In taking the pictures, a Canon PowerShot A2300 Digital Camera was used in taking the pictures of the building.
Production
The study utilized three different modelling software tools as well as the Game Engine Unity 3D - itself. The study used Sketchup to model the Cor Jesu College Canteen. The other parts and buildings were modelled with 3DS Max. The avatars were modelled with iClone’s Clone Cloth feature.
Here are some quick screenshots about multi user virtual campus
The four main objectives of the study were accomplished by digitally modelling the urban topography and design of Cor Jesu College’s Sacred Heart Avenue Campus using various modelling software, predesigning moving avatars controllable and selected by users, integrated the models in the game engine and installed a chat interface that can allow the users to communicate.
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