Office Chair Model Modeling

There are different implementation methods for office chair model modeling in various software. Here are some common methods and key points:

SketchUp Modeling

• Component Splitting and Basic Shape Construction: Modeling can start with different components, such as constructing the backrest model first. The armrests and legs can be regarded as a bent large H. First, create the large H shape, and then use software tools to bend the armrest part to form a shape that meets the design requirements.
• Detail Processing: When creating the recess at the connection between the front leg and the armrest, first insert a loop edge to form a hard edge along the upper edge of the armrest. Then, stretch it a certain distance to form a hexagonal cross-section. After subdivision, a cylindrical effect can be achieved, making the connection more realistic. For the connection part of the seat cushion, first determine the height dimension, complete the preliminary construction through operations such as mirroring and bridging. At the same time, eliminate redundant loop edges to reduce the number of faces after subdivision and improve the model's running efficiency.

3Ds Max Modeling

• Pre-modeling Preparation:
  • Unit Settings: Confirm the system units. Set both the 'Display Unit Scale' and the 'System Unit Scale' to 'millimeters' to ensure uniform units for office chair modeling.
  • Reference Image Placement: Arrange the three-view reference images. Create a plane object in the viewport with the same length and width as the actual dimensions of the reference images. You can drag the reference images into the material editor and assign them as diffuse maps to the plane, or present them as environment background images. It is recommended to place the reference images with the 'side view as the main view and the front view as the auxiliary view'. Since office chairs have a symmetrical structure, you can build only one side and then use the 'Symmetry' modifier to complete the other half.
• Modeling Approach: First, construct a low-poly framework, and then gradually add edges, create hard edges, and perform smoothing operations. Avoid pulling points and lines directly according to the reference images at the beginning, which may lead to disproportionate ratios or uneven surfaces. At the same time, split the office chair into multiple components for separate modeling, such as the seat cushion, integrated backrest, T-shaped armrests, pneumatic rods, five-star bases, and casters. Then, combine them through methods such as symmetry, attachment, and alignment, which is convenient for controlling details and later modifying materials and creating animations.
• Symmetry and Mirroring: Determine the position of the symmetry axis before modeling. For most office chairs, the symmetry axis is in the middle of the chair, along the central plane of the Y-axis or X-axis. After building one side of the model, add the 'Symmetry' modifier and select the correct mirror axis. It is advisable to use the 'Symmetry' modifier first, as it allows real-time preview of the other side while editing one side.
• Application Scenarios and Model Precision: Different application scenarios have different requirements for model precision. For example, e-commerce product image models need to be close to the real object and be able to represent the texture of different materials. Models for interior scene matching should have a controllable number of faces. Models for animations or product demonstrations should be able to split components, with some structures being rotatable or movable. It is necessary to clarify the output goals before modeling.