hardsurfaced

Hardsurfaced, or hard-surfaced, is a term used in 3D computer graphics and related fields to describe a design and modeling approach that emphasizes rigid, mechanical shapes with flat or sharply defined edges. The term is often written as hard-surface or hard-surfaced, and it contrasts with soft or organic modeling that seeks to capture natural, flowing forms. In practice, hardsurfaced modeling focuses on precise geometry, crisp silhouettes, and the clear separation of components similar to manufactured parts.

Origins and usage: The concept emerged with polygonal modeling and CAD-style workflows in the late 20th and early 21st centuries and has since become prominent in film, video games, and industrial design visualization. It is used to create vehicles, robots, weapons, machinery, and architectural facades where mechanical readability and manufacturability are important considerations.

Techniques: The workflow typically starts with a polygonal base mesh built from quads or triangles, followed by operations such as Boolean constructs, edge looping, and beveling to create sharp corners. Creasing or the use of subdivision surfaces allows smoothing while preserving hard edges. Normal maps or sharp-edge shading can simulate fine detail without increasing geometry. In industrial contexts, non-destructive parametric methods mirror CAD workflows, while artist-driven pipelines may employ sculpting for hard-surface detail and bake details into textures.

Software: Popular tools include Blender and Autodesk Maya or 3ds Max for general hard-surface work, ZBrush for hard-surface sculpting, and CAD packages such as Fusion 360 or SolidWorks for precise components. Game engines apply materials and shading strategies to maintain perceived crispness.

Applications and scope: Hardsurfaced modeling is widely used for vehicles, weapons, robots, machinery, and architectural facades in games, film, and visualization. Related topics include hard-surface modeling, polygonal modeling, subdivision surfaces, and creasing.