Best 3D Modeling Software

3D mapping and modeling is a technology used to project a 2D or 3D object onto a display surface through spatial mapping. 3D mapping is often used by advertisers and artists to add dimension, movement, and depth to previously static objects, such as buildings or stages.

Best 3D Modeling Software 2021

  1. AUTODESK INC
  2. TRIMBLE INC
  3. BENTLEY SYSTEMS
  4. ESRI
  5. TOPCON CORPORATION
  6. Adobe Dimension
  7. Google Earth
  8. Solidworks
  9. VRICON
  10. INTERMAP TECHNOLOGIES

Market Overview

Best 3D modeling software tools are widely used across the engineering and construction vertical. However, organizations across government and defense, media and entertainment, and healthcare and life sciences verticals are also expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period. MarketsandMarkets has segmented the global 3D mapping and modeling market by component, software tool, service, 3D mapping application, 3D modeling application, deployment mode, organization size, vertical, and region. The software tools segment is further categorized into 3D mapping and 3D modeling. The application segment is further categorized for 3D mapping and modeling. The 3D mapping applications segment comprises inspection and measurement, object reconstruction, projection and navigation, reporting and virtualization, and others (disaster, infrastructure, asset, and property management). The 3D modeling application segment consists of product marketing, animation and movies, gaming and designing, architectural rendering, and others (simulation, sculpting, painting, and visualization). The deployment mode segment is categorized into on-premises and the cloud. Based on organization size, the market is divided into large enterprises and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

The overall Best 3D modeling software market is divided into five major regions: North America, APAC, Europe, MEA, and Latin America. North America has been at the forefront of the 3D mapping and modeling adoption due to the high concentration of enterprises in the region coupled with heavy spending on ICT by most of the industries. Enterprises in North America view 3D content/data as a source of competitive advantage, wherein they spend heavily on Best 3D modeling software tools to stay ahead of the competition as they enable organizations to streamline their business processes and optimize operations. Whereas, the high growth rate in APAC can be attributed to huge investments being made in infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing sectors across China, India, Indonesia, and several other Southeast Asian countries.

The Best 3D modeling software market is expected to grow from USD 3,783 million in 2020 to USD 7,601 million by 2025, at a CAGR of 15.0% during the forecast period.

COMPETITIVE LEADERSHIP MAPPING TERMINOLOGY

Top companies offering Best 3D modeling software  features were analyzed, shortlisted, and categorized on a quadrant under Visionary Leaders, Innovators, Dynamic Differentiators, and Emerging Companies to identified best 3D modeling software providers.

VISIONARY LEADERS

AUTODESK INC , Trimble Inc, ESRI, and Bentley Systems are the leading players in the best 3D modeling software market, and are recognized as Visionary Leaders.

DYNAMIC DIFFERENTIATORS

Topcon Corporation, Solidworks, VRICON, Daz Studio, Adobe Dimension, and  Google Earth are recognized as Dynamic players in the 3D modeling software.

INNOVATORS

INTERMAP TECHNOLOGIES, Pix4DModel, and Houdini are recognized as Innovators in the Best 3D modeling software market.

EMERGING COMPANIES

Flight Evolved, Modo 3D Modeling, Cinema 4D, Zbrush, CYBERCITY 3D, and ONIONLAB are recognized as Emerging players in the best 3D modeling software companies.

DRIVERS

For a better cinematic experience, 3D animation is in high demand in mobile apps, sports, and movies.

Computer tools for Best 3D modeling software are critical in the implementation of 3D animation in mobile apps, games, and movies. 3D animation creates a more immersive, realistic, and user-friendly experience for games and other mobile apps, increasing their exposure. The growing popularity of smart devices is also fueling demand for advanced 3D-supportive mobile games and apps that provide a better user experience for commercial users. It provides a full movie video methodology, which lets mobile games view action and explore virtual worlds by providing realistic graphics and representation. 3D rendering and motion capture animation technology was used by gaming platforms such as Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox, and Nintendo to create gaming worlds that can digitally mimic the users' movements. The 3D modelling programme makes an application more user-friendly, portrays the logic of the application, and grabs the user's attention. These are the primary factors driving the adoption of 3D animation technology in game and application growth.

As the development of 3D content and 3D-enabled devices increases, 3D mapping technology is gaining traction. Professionals operating in geospatial, geological, geophysical, and mining environments may use 3D imaging features to simulate and map coordinates to get the desired results. Moreover, the technology is often used to map coordinates by creating geospatial 3D image spaces from multi-view stereo imagery. For the development and manipulation of photographs, 3D views, and mapping the exact coordinates at the appropriate geographic location, 3D animation is used for geospatial analysis and geo-visualization. It has the added benefit of being able to use 3D mapping to precisely map the coordinates in the targeted geography. This feature promotes the consumer acceptance of 3D animation technology by driving the demand for accurate 3D imaging techniques using 3D animation and modelling approaches.

Technological advancements in 3D scanners, 3D sensors, and other acquisition devices

In the past, capturing 3D data was a difficult task due to the lack of proper tools, technologies, or systems. With the advent of 3D technology viewing, the 3D content generation has become more popular. It has led to the discovery of various 3D mapping technologies with the help of which 3D content in the surroundings can be mapped. The technology finds its way into mobile devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and notebooks. Earlier, mapping was only limited to a 2D plane—atlas maps or online 2D maps. With the help of 2D images, it was possible to model 3D content with the available cloud points so that maps can be more realistic and users can get a more accurate view of the objects. 3D scanners, 3D sensors, and other acquisition devices that help capture 3D data have given a boost to the overall Best 3D modeling software market. The new advanced 3D laser scanning technology gives accurate 3D data in a shorter time frame. The other acquisition devices, such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and mobile mapping (including vehicle, vessel, and other moving platforms), also capture the right amount of data, which is well-known these days.

Increasing availability of 3D content

The 3D mapping and modeling market could not make significant progress in the past due to the lack of 3D content availability. With the proliferation of 3D content of the environment, 3D mapping and modeling has witnessed significant growth. The 3D image data is being used by the 3D mapping companies to develop and model their 3D maps. On 3D platforms, diverse content used by consumers, such as 3D images, 3D games, 3D videos, and 3D full-length movies, has increased the need for 3D mapping of terrain buildings and other places. With advancements in new mapping techniques in 3D, the Best 3D modeling software market has gained momentum. The other factor driving the 3D mapping and 3D modeling market is the user-generated 3D map content and its access on the consumers’ handheld devices. For instance, TraceParts, a leading provider of 3D digital content, develops and markets software solutions for CAD parts libraries, electronic catalogs, and product configurators. The company also supports customers to improve marketing efficiencies by increasing the value of their existing digital product data.

Advent of 3D-enabled display devices for a better navigation experience

Advancements in 3D maps are expected to be driven by the increasing need for an HD experience among users. The 3D viewing technology has been available in the market for many years, but the quality delivered to the consumer was not adequate. Consumers always need the best viewing experience of perceived 3D images, somewhat similar to what objects look like in reality. Innovative technologies have already started setting foot in the market, which gives users a comfortable and HD viewing experience. They provide images of the objects that look real and have adequate details. 3D mapping and 3D modeling technologies enable users to have real-life experiences of the surrounding buildings and terrain by viewing them through 3D-enabled devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and Personal Computers (PCs). The demand for 3D-enabled devices is expected to increase in the years to come. According to the statistics, the demand for all 3D-enabled devices is predicted to increase due to factors such as technological advancements, changing lifestyles, and the rising awareness among people regarding these advanced devices. Moreover, the increasing need for crisp and realistic image visualization, superior 3D effects, and an excellent mapping and navigation experience is driving the Best 3D modeling software market.

 

RESTRAINTS

Concerns about the levels of corruption and piracy

Abuse and piracy continue to be threats to the animation industry. Companies' software installations are targeted, and pirated versions are sold on the black market. As a result, the industry experiences significant financial losses. Companies have created surveillance and monitoring systems to prevent unauthorised downloads of Best 3D modeling software in order to combat piracy. As a result, consumers are more likely to use legal digital content. To combat the challenge of piracy, government norms and regulatory reforms have been introduced in recent years. However, versatile business plans are needed to build prevention strategies and to take preventive steps such as creating anti-piracy cells and raising awareness. In India, for example, states like Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have taken steps to raise public consciousness about piracy. In certain nations, however, the only enforcement policy to combat piracy is to block websites and penalise unauthorised users. Software piracy rates worldwide fell to 37 percent in 2017, down 2 percent from two years prior, according to DataProt statistics.

High technological and installation costs

With the passage of time, advancements in the field of 3D mapping technology have taken place. Along with providing HD quality 3D content to the user, an enhanced user-experience is also needed. To achieve this, additional costs are required for capturing the 3D content data from acquisition devices, such as scanners and lasers. It adds to the cost of the overall technology. According to the survey done by On Services, the average projection mapping service costs about USD 10,000 per one-minute of 3D video content. On the other hand, in addition to the cost of the video development time, there are also additional costs of the projectors, media servers, and hard drives. Consequently, the increasing cost may restrain the pace of 3D mapping technological adoption.

OPPORTUNITIES

The emergence of AI and machine learning technologies to improve the accuracy of 3D content

Artificial intelligence has the ability to explode the 3D mapping industry. The workflow of data acquisition needed to generate 3D maps can be described using AI technologies. In addition, AI is expected to improve the accuracy of 3D maps. Furthermore, AI eliminates operational downtime while creating maps from point cloud data. Furthermore, 3D models aid in better urban planning and the assessment of new building projects' possible environmental effects. Predictive modelling and AI-based big data solutions and services assist business verticals with automation and early identification of fraudulent activities that can be prevented. AI is now being used by companies like Google to introduce features like image recognition, recommendations, and prediction, as well as to improve accuracy and performance. Other businesses will use the same strategy to expand their 3D mapping opportunities.

HD 3D viewing customer experience

After the evolution of 3D technology, developments can be witnessed in terms of enhancing the content quality and improving user-viewing experiences. 3D technology has now started providing HD content to enhance the viewing experience. With this improvement, various companies have started examining their products in detail so that they can make further changes to them, thereby making them more attractive to their existing as well as potential customers.

CHALLENGES

Government controls are strict, and there are few investments

The demand for Best 3D modeling software is hampered by a lack of capital investment. R&D operations, manpower recruitment, and the purchase of new technology are all hampered by a lack of funds. Investing in the new technology ensures the reliability of the job environment and expands the amount of resources available to the industry. The animation industry's slow Return on Investment (ROI) is one of the main reasons for low investor interest. As a result, private investors are wary of entering the market for 3D mapping and modelling.

Countries such as the United States, China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Japan are providing substantial development assistance to help the business expand. For example, China's Ministry of Culture partnered with Disney and TenCent Holding Ltd. in 2012 to develop animation products for Chinese and international markets. Local talent has been encouraged, and investments in animation and visual effects firms have been made as a result of the initiative. However, governments in developing countries such as India, the Philippines, Brazil, Vietnam, and Mexico must have more support in order to build new 3D mapping and modelling projects. Helping laws under the intellectual property policy, tax benefits (reimbursements and rebates), or regulatory legislation may all be used by the government.

Lack of expertise and skilled workforce

Gaining expertise in developing 3D mapping or 3D modeling projects is a challenging task. It is a long-term process to gain technical expertise as an animator. A 3D animator is expected to have the necessary creative, artistic skills, and experience to develop a 3D project. As per the Media Education Skill Council (MESC), several animators lack the required skills, because various training institutions do not require trainees to have an arts background. It results in skill gaps among animators, due to which animation companies should invest more in training their workforce, which, in turn, affects the companies’ profitability.

Similarly, it is essential to bring more investments to improve workforce skills and meet the animation industry standards. Governments and industry regulatory bodies have started taking major initiatives, with consideration to investing time and resources in enhancing the skills of the animators. For instance, the Animation Council of the Philippines (ACPI) partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and other government bodies to launch a training work program for 3D animators, designers, and application creators to enhance their skills.

 

3D MAPPING AND MODELING TECHNIQUES

3D MAPPING TECHNIQUES

Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is a technique of making measurements from photographs, especially for recovering the exact positions of surface points. The technique is used to find the distance between two points that lie on a plane parallel to the photographic image plane. Photogrammetry is one of the most important methods used to create 3D maps. Providers of 3D maps use photogrammetric cameras for consistent, high quality, and large scale images at a low cost. They use tuned algorithms to leverage known camera ephemeris as well as cope with very little metadata from consumer imagery on the web.

LiDAR

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a technology that is based on laser beams. It shoots out a laser and measures the time it takes for the light to return. These light pulses combined with other data recorded by the airborne system generate precise, 3D information about the shape of the object and its surface characteristics, which further can be used for creating maps of objects and environments.

RADAR

Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) is a detection system that uses radio waves to determine the range, angle, or velocity of objects. A RADAR system consists of a transmitter, producing electromagnetic waves in the radio or microwaves domain, a transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, and a receiver, along with a processor to determine the properties of the object. Radio waves (pulsed or continuous) from the transmitter reflect off the object and return to the receiver, giving information about the object's location and speed. Further, developers use signal processing methods for the development of 3D images and maps with the aid of radar.

SONAR

Sound Navigation Ranging (SONAR) is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with, or detect objects on or under the surface of the water. The inspection of underwater infrastructure is currently a costly, time-consuming, and dangerous task performed manually by human divers. As autonomous underwater vehicles become more sophisticated, it will be increasingly feasible and desirable to automate these inspection tasks. However, there are many technical challenges that must still be overcome, particularly in the domain of localization and navigation in complex 3D environments. SONAR system is conveniently used for generating underwater 3D maps.

 

3D MODELING TECHNIQUES

Wireframe modeling

Wireframe modeling is the development of a visual exhibition of a 3D or physical object used in 3D computer graphics. It is an abstract edge or skeletal representation of a real-world 3D object using lines and curves. Every object that makes up a wireframe model should be drawn and positioned independently, hence this type of modeling can be extremely time-consuming. A wireframe model is a skeletal description of a 3D object. It consists only of points, lines, and curves that describe the edges of the object. A user can create wireframe models by positioning 2D (planar) objects anywhere in the 3D space. In 3D modeling, the software provides 3D wireframe objects, such as 3D polylines (that can only have a continuous line type) and splines.

Surface modeling

Surface modeling is a method of providing design applications for displaying solid-appearing objects. Surface modeling makes it possible for users to look at specific objects at specific angles with solid surfaces. Surface modeling is a popular technique for architectural designs and renderings. The technique has a wide range of applications, such as in consumer products, marine vehicles, body panels of automobiles, and aircraft structures. Surface modeling is also considered a more complex technique for displaying objects than wireframe modeling. It has much less ambiguous display functionalities compared to wireframe modeling, but not as much or sophisticated as solid modeling. The process of surface modeling starts with combining the 3D surfaces and solids, followed by the conversion of the model to procedural surfaces. The next steps are to validate the imperfections with surface analysis tools and then rebuilding surfaces of objects to apply smoothness to the object.

Solid modeling

Solid modeling is the method of geographic modeling wherein a user can represent the solid parts of an object on a computer. The geometric model is made up of wireframes that can be 2D, 2.5D, or 3D. Providing surface representation to the wire 3D views of geometric models makes the object appear solid on the computer screen and is known as solid modeling. Solid modeling is one of the most important applications of the Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and has been increasingly popular. The solid modeling CAD software helps the designer to see the designed object as if it were the real manufactured product. It can be seen in various directions and in various views. It helps the designer to be sure that the object looks exactly as the required outcome. It also gives an additional vision to the designer as to what more changes can be done in the object.

 

3D MAPPING AND MODELING MARKET, BY COMPONENT

3D mapping technology is one of the fastest ways to build 3D environments. 3D mapping solutions swiftly build 3D maps of objects with supreme accuracy and clarity, ready to plug into professional visualization systems. 3D modeling is the process of developing a 3D representation of an object via specialized software. 3D models created from 3D objects are a collection of data points that can be collected via scanners with intelligent data models and tools for integrating data, which is used for modeling smart cities and legacy cities, terrain modeling, 3D site designing, and a model-based infrastructure planning and management.

The global 3D mapping and modeling market by component has been segmented into software tools and services. Best 3D modeling software tools comprise 3D mapping software and 3D modeling software. Services are sub-segmented into professional services and managed services. The professional services segment is further broken down into consulting, support and maintenance, and deployment and integration.

SOFTWARE TOOLS

3D mapping and modeling software tools comprise 3D mapping software and 3D modeling software. The demand for 3D mapping and modeling software tools is increasing globally to cope with machine vision applications across the medical, media, and construction verticals. These software tools are changing the way of working and analyzing information across various segments. 3D imaging renders a 360-degree view of any image it creates using binocular vision and provides two offset images separately for the right and the left eye of the viewer. The growing use of 3D mapping and modeling software tools in products, such as smartphones, cameras, and televisions are expected to drive the 3D mapping and modeling software tools market. Additionally, the use of 3D mapping and modeling software tools in the automation industry is also expected to fuel market demand. The emergence of 4D technology is expected to provide growth opportunities for the Best 3D modeling software tools market. The growing use of various 3D imaging technologies, such as AI, blockchain, and IoT for video games and theatrical films is expected to fuel the 3D mapping and modeling market.

3D mapping and modeling software tools are implemented across several consumer electronics, such as cameras, camera modules, and other devices. Companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft incorporate 3D imaging sensors into smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices. Most of the enterprises leverage 3D mapping and modeling software tools to significantly increase operational flexibility. Moreover, the increasing demand for CAD specialized visual applications to fuel the growth of the 3D modeling market. Similarly, increasing demand for urban development and surveying to upsurge the need for 3D mapping would drive the overall market growth.

3D MAPPING

Over the past few years, 3D mapping technology has been growing and is being incorporated into various devices. 3D mapping is the technique used to project 2D or 3D objects on a surface with the use of geospatial mapping. The technique not only plots an image into 3D, but also depicts the size and depth of the given surface or object shown on the 3D map. The 3D map is often combined with other information, such as thermographic data or industry-specific data, to make the map an actionable tool. Furthermore, an additional requirement for urban development (smart cities) and surveying (inspection, measurement, and reconstruction) would drive the growth of 3D mapping technologies.

3D MODELING

3D modeling is the process of developing a 3D replica of an object via specialized software and the product formed is a 3D model. It can be displayed through a computer simulation method. 3D models created from 3D objects are a collection of data points that can be collected via scanners. 3D models can demonstrate proposed buildings and landscapes through software architectural models. 3D solid models are created for non-visual simulations used in medical and engineering. It is also used for CAD applications.

 

SERVICES

The services segment has been further divided into professional services and managed services. These services play a vital role in the functioning of Best 3D modeling software tools. The 3D mapping and modeling software tools vendors require technical support services and consulting services to manage the deployment of software tools in the market. These services ensure faster and smoother implementation that can maximize the value of enterprise investments. These services are an integral step in deploying technology solutions and are taken care of by the solution and service providers. These services ensure end-to-end deployment and maintenance of the 3D mapping and modeling software tools and address pre- and post-deployment queries.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Professional services are mostly post-sales services that are delivered to customers after the purchase of the product. The customized, knowledge-based services offered to clients are considered within the ambit of professional services. Services play a major role in processes, such as solutions deployment, onboarding, training, and software handling, and maintenance. Professional services include designing, planning, upgradation, and a host of consulting services that are offered to clients. Companies are offering these services to engage consultants, solutions experts, and dedicated project management teams to specialize in the design and delivery of critical decision-support solutions and services. The professional service team ensures smooth project management and precise on-site installation for 3D mapping and modeling software tools and services. The growth of the professional services segment is governed by the complexity of understanding new business models and process efficiencies in the face of new imperatives, such as increasing demand, new technological interventions, and changing regulatory policies.

Consulting

Consulting services are needed in the initial phases of implementing the 3D mapping and modeling software tools or when organizations are looking for customized solutions based on their business needs and market trends. These services help in reducing the complexities while operating and upgrading 3D mapping and modeling software tools and raising the Return on Investment (RoI), as they can be easily customized and applicable and can deliver maximum product assurance. Consulting services mainly steer around the critical issues and opportunities related to strategy, marketing, operations, technology, M&A, and corporate finance, and handhold enterprises for increasing their efficiency, boosting their performance, reducing their expenses, and enhancing their resilience. The developing demand of organizations to agree to various labor laws and regulations across the globe is expected to have boosted the need for consulting services.

System Integration and Implementation

3D mapping and modeling services help face the challenges related to data integration. System integration and implementation is one of the major services, as Best 3D modeling software tools must be integrated with the existing systems, which requires the right level of connectors and back-end integration capabilities. System integration and implementation services begin with collecting customers’ requirements, and taking care of deploying, integrating, testing, and rolling out the solutions. Many organizations have already deployed various IT solutions to manage their workflows and provide ease to their customers and employees.

Support and Maintenance

Support and maintenance services are adopted by organizations that use the on-premises deployment model for deploying speech analytics solutions. Support and maintenance services comprise functional and technical support rendered by companies to their end-customers with the help of 3D mapping and modeling vendors. These services are fundamentally accommodated for software support, which can be offered from remote spots by means of web conferencing, phones, onsite help, and ticketing frameworks. Comprehensive training helps incorporate all the requisites of theory and practicals that guide the workforce in the proper implementation of the software.

MANAGED SERVICES

Managed services specifically deal with client experiences. Enterprises cannot bargain on this variable, as it helps them maintain their market position. Sometimes, it becomes troublesome for companies to concentrate on their core business procedures and simultaneously handle these services. This leads to companies relying on third parties to offer managed services. Every technological domain requires well-delivered managed services. Technical expertise, service consistency, and flexibility must be provided by vendors, regardless of the geographical location of the client. Managed services provide all the required skillsets to maintain and upgrade the solutions, which is of utmost importance in the 3D mapping and modeling environment. All pre- and post-deployment questions and needs for clients are taken care of through the managed services unit. Organizations mostly outsource such services to offer clients on-time delivery and an enhanced experience. Services being offered must fit perfectly into the client’s environment.

 

3D MAPPING AND MODELING MARKET, BY 3D MAPPING APPLICATION

3D mapping technology is evolving in several industries that have numerous applications. The 3D mapping and modeling market is segmented by application into inspection and measurement, object reconstruction, projection and navigation, virtualization, and others. Other applications include disaster, infrastructure, asset, and property management. One of the main applications of 3D mapping is projection and navigation, which is an emerging technology that maps 3D points to a 2D plane, thereby adding animation to stationary objects and architectures. The projection and navigation market is expected to dominate the 3D mapping application market, as major players, such as Google, Apple, and Autodesk are competing to provide innovative mapping and navigation solutions.

INSPECTION AND MEASUREMENT

Land surveying comprises inspection, measurement, and mapping of the surrounding environment using mathematics, specialized technology, and equipment. Distance, area, and volume are the properties measured by 3D mapping of any particular object, including buildings, land, construction sites, mining sites, and agricultural lands. It is essential to plan and design the land subdivisions to finalize the construction of roads, utilities, and landscaping. Field surveyors use the latest technologies, such as high order Global Positioning System (GPS), 3D modeling, 3D mapping, and 3D scanning to map an area. Once the inspection is done, measurements are taken through aerial imaging and scanning. Furthermore, 3D maps are created of the specific object for several purposes, including avoiding accidents, identifying and differentiating lands, and more.

OBJECT RECONSTRUCTION

3D object reconstruction is the process via which shapes and appearances of real-time objects are captured. Data collection is an important phase of the object reconstruction process. In this phase, data is collected through aerial mapping and imaging, site inspections, and measurements to develop an interactive map for reconstructing an object accurately. Reconstruction enables to gain insights into the qualitative features of the object, which cannot be inferred from a single plane of sights, such as volume and the relative position of the object to other objects in the scene. Qualitative features can be achieved through the creation of 3D maps. In the object reconstruction process, a depth-map is reproduced with the help of a sequence of images as input. 3D maps help gain minute and accurate insights of objects that need to be reconstructed.

PROJECTION AND NAVIGATION

3D-based projection is gaining popularity rapidly. It is an audio-visual mapping, wherein videos and audios are projected on real surfaces, such as buildings, cars, and concert stages. It is an evolving technology that maps 3D points to a 2D plane and adds animation to stationary objects and architectures. This technique is used by video artists to match videos to buildings that they are projecting on and creating interesting 3D effects. At present, 3D projection has emerged as an attractive form of advertising, as it enables the creation of 3D effects of various products for marketing campaigns.

3D navigation is specially designed for mobile devices to provide a 3D view of urban, semi-urban, or sometimes rural environments. A model of user-interaction of a 3D map is then presented to match the physical position. With major companies such as Apple and Alphabet competing with each other to provide top-of-the-class 3D navigation solutions, this application has been gaining huge traction for the past three years. Nokia also provides advanced 3D navigation options.

REPORTING AND VIRTUALIZATION

Virtualization is the process by which graphical content is created using 3D software. The technology is being adopted by organizations to produce high-quality digital content. It helps 3D artists create spectacular visualizations that can be used in any industry. 3D mapping technology is used to map 3D objects and 3D content properly on the surface. Real-time vitalization achieved via 3D mapping enables customers to better understand the designs and models. Virtualization technology is becoming popular as it is helping architects and engineers to convey their designs to customers. It also helps designers, animators, sculptors, and other digital artists to map their models on the surface.

OTHER APPLICATIONS

Other applications of 3D mapping comprise disaster, infrastructure, asset, and property management. 3D maps are very useful in handling disasters as they help provide critical information for disaster relief. With the help of 3D maps, 3D components such as hills, buildings, and more can be easily seen and tracked. 3D maps help in integrating data and spatial information into a database and make data available throughout the organization to improve quality, productivity, and asset management. Different photogrammetry powered drone-based solutions for property management help survey and monitor, and inspect real estate projects and historical places.

3D MAPPING AND MODELING MARKET, BY 3D MODELING APPLICATION

The demand for 3D modeling technology is augmented with the increasing need for developing a mathematical representation of any surface of an object in 3D. 3D models created from 3D objects are a collection of data points that can be collected via scanners. The technology has evolved with numerous applications in major industry verticals, including healthcare, energy and utilities, media and entertainment, construction and real estate, video games, virtual reality, 3D printing, TV and motion pictures, and marketing. The use of 3D modeling has augmented with the development of smart cities. The technique is now being used for terrain modeling, 3D site design, and model-based infrastructure planning and management.

PRODUCT MARKETING

Cutting-edge technologies, including 3D designing and 3D modeling, are helping organizations to brand and showcase their products powerfully in the market. 3D modeling is increasingly being used by businesses because of the visual impact it creates in the customers’ eyes. 3D modeling helps in effectively conveying the marketing messages to the target groups, present products creatively, develop customized themes, and showcase less photogenic products. 3D models of products bring the actual look and feel to the customers, which is more impactful than 2D images of the products. Customers get a comprehensive idea about the products through advertising created using 3D modeling and 3D animation.

ANIMATION AND MOVIES

The demand for 3D modeling technology is augmented in the film industry, as it makes a noticeable impression on the industry by providing the finest animation practices. 3D full-length movies have increased the need for 3D modeling, which helps artists and animators develop detailed models of objects, including characters, landscapes, buildings, and more, to be used in animated films. There are many 3D modeling products and solutions available in the market that help create realistic 3D models and special effects for animation and movies.

GAMING AND DESIGNING

Computer consoles and games are continuously evolving in terms of features and graphics. 3D modeling enables game developers to make 3D models that can simulate the real world with perfect visuals. The latest 3D model solutions help couple those models with VR and AR to get Matrix-like simulation. 3D modeling also helps game developers and animators measure objects, create characters, and texture those objects and characters to give them a realistic look. 3D modeling enhances the quality of visual graphics through texturing. 3D modeling technology further helps the gaming and designing industry to grow rapidly.

ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING

Architects need complete tools powered by the latest technologies to deliver the proposed design ideas for potential clients. 3D rendering helps clients to get a complete view of the finished project and suggest necessary recommendations. The architects understand that clients cannot visualize how a project is going to look like with hand-drawn designs on paper. 3D models enable architects to effectively present their projects to the clients and support communication. 3D architecture models look realistic, as if the building already existed in real life. The use of 3D modeling has increased in architectural operations, as it requires little effort from architects and renders detailed 3D models of projects.

OTHER 3D MODELING APPLICATIONS

Other applications of 3D modeling include sculpting, painting, visualization, and simulation. 3D models and simulation help provide a real sense of the outcomes of design planning. They also offer new possibilities for designing and planning solutions. 3D modeling helps digital sculptors to sculpt complex objects with minute detailing that would not be possible with traditional modeling techniques. The technology makes visualizations better with detailed 3D models and helps architects, engineers, and animators to convey their design ideas to their customers.

Best 3D Modeling Software

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Autodesk is one of the global leaders in designing software and services and offering productive business solutions to customers through powerful technology products and services. It serves customers in architecture, engineering, and construction; product design and manufacturing; and digital media and entertainment industries.

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Trimble is one of the leading providers of positioning technologies for the 3D modeling and 3D mapping market. It offers products and services for advanced 3D modeling and 3D mapping. It leverages technologies, such as integrated sensors, field applications, real-time communications, and office software, for processing, modeling, mapping, and data analytics.

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It primarily focuses on providing engineers, architects, geospatial professionals, constructors, and owner-operators with comprehensive software solutions for advancing the design, construction, and operations of infrastructure. Bentley Systems delivers solutions for the entire infrastructure life cycle, tailored to the needs of various professions – engineers, architects, planners, contractors, fabricators, IT managers, operators, and maintenance engineers.

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3.2

The company offers ArcGIS 3D Analyst, a mapping software that connects people with maps, data, and apps through GIS. It provides capabilities such as spatial analytics, imagery, and remote sensing, mapping and visualization, real-time GIS, 3D GIS, and data collection and management. ArcGIS 3D Analyst enables users to apply location-based analytics to their business practices. It provides expertise, including spatial analytics, imagery, and remote sensing, mapping and visualization, real-time GIS, 3D GIS, and data collection and management.

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Topcon offers a diverse portfolio of solutions, such as 3D Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and 3D-MC, in the 3D mapping and modeling market. Topcon enables its customers to build several systems and solutions for civil engineering by providing enhanced support for training. Furthermore, the company is introducing 3D modeling solutions, thereby opening gates for Topcon in the Building Information Modeling (BIM) market space.

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Adobe Dimension is the fastest way to bring your creative designs to life in 3D. It enables graphic designers to create high-quality, photorealistic 3D images. Adobe Dimension composites 2D and 3D assets to build product shots, scene visualizations, and abstract art. Dimension is a great product for simple 3D. It makes them realistic and presents them in a more professional way.

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In the 3D mapping and modeling space, Alphabet offers Google Earth, which is a computer program that renders a 3D demonstration of the earth based on satellite imagery. The program maps the earth by superimposing satellite images, aerial photography, and GIS data onto a 3D globe, facilitating user the view of cities and landscapes from various angles. Google Earth provides a series of other tools through the desktop application and covers more than 98 percent of the world through satellite images.

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SolidWorks software is much helpful on global grounds for collaborating with consistency for boosting production. The software helps the managers or users in handling different portfolios with increased efficiency and also allows them with AutoCAD drawings, Submitting BOMs, and much more. SolidWorks Intuitive 3D design and product development solutions help you to create, communicate, manage and transform your innovative ideas into great product designs.

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2.5

In the field of 3D mapping and modeling, the company offers Vricon Data Suite, Vricon Software, and Vricon Telco Suite. The company caters to the entire professional geospatial market, with an initial focus on defense, security, and infrastructure. Its technology offers imagery content to accurately represent all visible objects on the earth in 3D, and the products provide customers greater coverage relative to aerial-derived elevation models, and superior fidelity and availability relative to other satellite-derived models.

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The company is one of the leading providers of geospatial solutions. Intermap Technologies offers terrain mapping, which enables commercial enterprises and government agencies to build a wide variety of innovative geospatial applications and efficiently perform analyses. It also provides geospatial services, which include 3D mapping services, data fusion, and online GIS tools, to provide terrain-based answers.

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Daz 3D is a flexible and comprehensive software that comes equipped with 3D figure posing, animation, and rendering applications that have been created specifically for 3D animators, designers, and illustrators. The software also helps with graphic design software solutions, platforms, and add-ons that allow users to create proper 3D human models and spectacular digital graphics, animations, and environments.

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Also famous by the name Pix4Dmapper, it is a software that helps in the conversion of images to high definition 2D or 3D maps and models. The photos the software converts can be taken by hand, plane, or even by the drone. Again, the images are also timely and customizable through various software and applications.

With the help of Pix4D, the user can quickly have complete management and control over the project.
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Flight evolved is a robust data providing a company that provides actionable data that facilitates decision making by businesses and government.The company works with businesses around the world in projects that range from small scale analysis to multi-year risk-mitigation projects. Flight Evolved has worked with a range of organizations from small public sectors to Fortune 500 energy provider companies.They help in LiDAR scanning and mapping and provides UAV and mobile mapping platforms to surveying and engineering companies to help them increase their data collection efficiency and accuracy.
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1.9

Maxon has produced some excellent resources for 3D mapping and modelling in Cinema 4D. It has been designed to be very powerful with amazing effects and is also very easy to learn. Results can be acquired instantly without any hassle, even for beginners in the field. There are a wide range of tools and features to choose from, all of which makes Cinema 4D very reliable for perfect 3D productions. Multiple functions can be selected as per your specific need and style.

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Mitsubishi Electric is a company dedicated to developing high-end electronic products. They produce electronics for a wide variety of needs- from home-based personal needs to large scale industrial needs. Mitsubishi Electric is famous for building long-lasting air conditioners. Over time Mitsubishi Electric has become more and more sophisticated, bringing us 3D mapping and modelling services. These services allow you to convert a 2D equation into a 3D model which can be analyzed in all aspects.

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The software by Foundry Vision Mongers Ltd provides the users with an advanced level of art and technology that helps in creating computer graphics in a professional style. With the help of Nuke, a popular compositing application based on the node, the company provides advanced tools like 3D tracking, easy compositing, perfect pixel, etc.

The software comes with a proper blend for enhancing control and resolution over various formats.
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It is a 3D geospatial modeling company that specializes in creating 3D building content for 3D building and city models, GIS, and visualization solutions. The company deploys sophisticated modeling methods with photogrammetry to create highly detailed 3D buildings and offer complete city area data sets. CyberCity 3D is one of the global leaders in modeling and 3D content streaming for smart cities. The company offers its patented 3D modeling software for commercial real estate, AEC, urban planning and analysis, visualization, defense, and sustainability.
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1.3

Onionlab is a famous multi-purpose studio produce stunning audiovisuals and VR for festivals and exhibitions. They provide interactive products like motion design movies and various audiovisuals. They finely blend art with present-day technology and play with optical illusion. Scripting and music are the studio's prioritized areas. They build their products from scratch beginning from graphic concentration, work on aesthetics, and are famous for their attention to details. Their team comprises of professionals who dedicate their time to research before every project properly. They try to develop new concepts and work on each project with a new approach to push the envelope of 3D mappings and graphic techniques.

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1.1
Pixologic is one of the digital platforms for painting and sculpting. One of the revolutionized platforms in the 3D industry, the software offers the users with a wide range of advanced tools beneficial to digital artists.

The software allows the users to create paints and sculpts that come with powerful processing along with various polygons. With similar tools and brushes, the software helps in overcoming all the technical sprints and curves with steep learning.
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2.4

Houdini by SideFX, is an extensively used software in the VFX industry. The software helps in creating a range of 3D imagery. Houdini's node-based technical approach facilitates digital artists with an unparalleled level of power, flexibility and control. Along with this workflow, Houdini also offers more traditional tools for unswervingly interacting with polygons on screen.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The global 3D mapping and modeling market size is expected to grow from USD 2.8 billion in 2018 to USD 6.5 billion by 2023, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.0% during 2018–2023. The market will se an exponential growth after the complete adoption of 3D and VFX technology. North America is the most matured region in using these technologies and APAC region is adopting to the 3D viewing experiences to grow at a faster pace.
By 3D Mapping Application, the 3D Mapping Application Market has been segmented as follows: Inspection and Measurement, Object Reconstruction, 3D Projection and Navigation, Virtualization, disaster, infrastructure, asset, and property management. By 3D Modeling Application, the 3D Modeling Application Market has been segmented as follows: Product Marketing, Animation and Movies, Game and Object Design, Architectural Rendering, simulation, sculpting, painting, and visualization.
Increasing need for VFX technology in movies, 3D applications in games, and use of 3D imaging in mapping are major growth factors for the 3D mapping and modeling market. Increased availability of 3D content, superior 3D viewing experience and increased return on marketing spend will further drive the market.
China is the largest economy whose major economic activity is based on manufacturing. Large-scale construction and infrastructure activities are key to the rising adoption of 3D mapping and modeling. Japan is one of the leading manufacturing countries in the world. It is adopting advanced technologies such as robotics and 3D printing to improve productivity and efficiency. Australia and New Zealand are key countries in this region with developed economies. They have large industrial groups related to mining and manufacturing. Some of the emerging economies in APAC are also adopting 3D mapping and modeling technologies on a large scale which is evident from the fact that one of the leading universities in Malaysia developed a 3D software model to enable utility, telecommunications, and pipeline companies to accurately retrieve information, such as pipeline depth, intersection, and distances.
By application, animation, and movies segment to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period in the 3D mapping and modeling market. The demand for 3D modeling technology is augmented in the film industry, as it makes a noticeable impression on the industry by providing the finest animation practices. 3D full-length movies have increased the need for 3D modeling, which helps artists and animators develop detailed models of objects, including characters, landscapes, buildings, and more, to be used in animated films. There are many 3D modeling products and solutions available in the market that help create realistic 3D models and special effects for animation and movies.
Construction and engineering segment to hold a significant market share during the forecast period. The 3D mapping and modeling technology helps computer-generated buildings to be created along with landscapes. CAD and 3D modeling techniques are time-saving and help get a succinct view of the project, landscape, or construction site. The final output to be constructed can be seen in terms of its length, breadth, and height using the 3D technology, and with realistic 3D virtualization, simulations with extensive details of the building can be observed to measure its feasibility. A typical 3D architectural model comprises images and documents that help an architect concoct about its requirements in terms of materials, thereby estimating an approximate cost of the building. 3D visualization also helps to find potential flaws and loopholes in the building well in advance before its construction, thereby helping save funds, time, and most importantly human lives.