iC3D v5.0 breaks new ground in shape modelling and realism (Stand AC21)

Creative Edge Software, developer of the award-winning iC3D packaging design software, is demonstrating brand new features to benefit luxury brand packaging design and development at Luxe Pack Monaco (October 2-4, Grimaldi Forum). Exhibiting on Stand AC21 in the Connect 2 Luxury (C2L) Atrium, iC3D is unveiling six significant new capabilities previously available only from specialist, proprietary 3D design software. 

The development of the version 5.0 comes in response to customer requests since the launch of iC3D v4.0 photorealism at drupa last year, particularly relating to shape modelling and realism.

“Whereas our last major release was all about improving photorealism, the advances made with version 5.0 allow design professionals to achieve an unprecedented level of control over the shape and form of their packaging design,” explains Nick Gilmore, CEO of Creative Edge Software. “Characteristics we call ‘crinkle, crumple, dent and bash’ allow creatives to interpret and manipulate their designs, whether that is to improve naturalism, for example, or to emphasize a specific aspect of the product or even a particular brand value.”

The six key features of the new iC3D versions 5.0 are:

• Point Editor – advanced shape editing tool providing enhanced photorealism through the ability to add curves, creases, crumples and dents to models selectively
• UVW Editor – enables selective manipulation of artwork placed on 3D models to correct artwork distortion, improve naturalism and allow artistic interpretation
• Physics Simulator – automatically calculates appropriate curves, creases and distortions to create photorealistic 3D flexible packages, such as bags and pouches, at a mouse-click
• Sealed Shrink – for visualizing shrink-filled packages using completely sealed bags. Complements the existing iC3D Shrink Sleeve feature.
• Advanced Shape Modeller – additional tools for the creation of highly complex 3D shapes and combinations of shapes
• Spritzing – allows users to create realistic condensation and water droplet effects on any object, such as cans, bottles, shrink film, etc.

Using features such as Point Editor and UVW Editor, iC3D v5.0 provides the ability to select points on a 3D model, edit shapes, distortions and surface effects, visually adjusting artwork to improve the real-life appearance of a package design. This could involve adding aspects of randomization or imperfection, such as creases, crinkles and indentations.

As well as these features for selective editing, version 5.0 includes automatic processes. Physics Simulator automatically recreates the behavior of a flexible package in different situations, such as sag, bulge and drape dynamics. Sealed Shrink has been developed to mock-up shrink-filled bags such as those commonly used for pre-packed perishables – for example, cheese, fish and meat portions. Spritzing delivers realistic surface condensation effects in real-time to eliminate time-consuming and costly photo studio sessions.

As with all previous versions of iC3D, the results can be shared via iC3D Opsis and output as final print ready files.

“Spritzing in ‘real time’ is the most recent development and is based on feedback from leading CPG Brands and agencies who wanted to visualize appealing chilled drinks without spending days locked in photo studios,” adds Gilmore. “With version 5.0 even the most hard-bitten cynics have to admit that this can replace physical mockups and studio photography, opening up a whole new world of opportunity. The ability to create any shape, simulate the physical behavior of packages and visually enhance their aesthetics to suit different environments is the fine-tuning that might be the difference between success and failure of a brand proposal.”