Concepts

Once I had a basic idea of what I wanted to create for these crates, I used Maya to create simple versions of the objects, then used Photoshop to add details to create a concept piece for each crate.

I took each render as the base for the concept art and used layering and colouration techniques to get an idea for what the finished crates may look like.

For this first crate I wanted a very functional look, something that could be used in a sci-fi industrial or military setting. It has large ridges and corners around the body to protect the contents from damage.

For this second crate I wanted to create something like a food dispenser for emergency rations or supplies. I went for a rounded design which I think would be more fitting for contact with regular personnel. Make it look like an object they're allowed to interact with, not overly utilitarian, but still functional.

For the 3rd crate, I wanted to do something different, something I hadn't seen before. I went with a gas storage tank. I made the design very industrial with a protective cage and rubberised impact areas on the corners to protect the gas from vibration.

I feel like I have a lot of variation in my designs, with each concept covering a different aspect of life on board a space ship, military, industrial and survival.

Creating concepts to work from is an industry practice and I would be expected to create them or work from concepts created by others.

Idea Generation

To get an idea of what we will be creating, I used a Mind Map to think of ideas based around the concept of a Sci-fi crate.

To flesh out the visual side of the project, I compiles two Pinterest mood boards. One with concept art of crates, and another of final 3D art of other Sci-fi Crates.

These two boards can be found at these links:
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/aconlan0468/sci-fi-crate-concept/
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/aconlan0468/sci-fi-crate-3d/

Unit Initial Evaluation

For this unit we have been tasked with creating Sci-fi Crate models for use in a VR game using modern industry standard techniques.

For this we will be using Maya for the modelling and Substance Painter for the baking and detailing.
While I have a lot of experience modelling in Maya, this will be my first time using Substance Painter and will present a learning experience.

Learning a new program on the job is something that may happen in the industry and self teaching is an important part of this.