Next Gen AI 3D Modelling Tools: Tested for 3D Printing

Introduction

AI-generated 3D models have made significant advancements. A few weeks ago, I published a video exploring some of the top free 3D model-generating AIs and tested their functionalities in the realm of 3D printing. The AI industry is charging ahead rapidly, and newer tools have emerged since then. Today, I'm putting some of the latest AI mesh generators to the test to see how they work in creating models suited for 3D printing. Let's dive in.

In my last video, I examined various processes, from having LLMs write code for models to generating 3D models from videos. This time, however, I will focus specifically on text-to-3D and image-to-3D conversions. I'll revisit some of the tools used previously to analyze their improvements over time and compare them against the new entrants.

One of the best aspects of 3D printing is the ability to bring any imagined object into the real world. The design process is especially enjoyable for many, including myself. Although it's often fulfilling to create designs from scratch, practical constraints may limit our time or energy to do so. AI tools for text-to-3D and image-to-3D still rely on your initial idea, offering convenience and aiding in creative processes. Despite concerns about originality due to AI training on existing work, generative AI can still be a valuable tool.

For today's tests, I’ll examine Rodin Gen 1 by Deos Tech, Charmed AI, 3D AI Studio, Meshi AI for text-to-3D, and Instant Mesh for image-to-3D, which I covered in my previous video.

Text-to-3D

Rodin Gen 1 by Deos Tech

Access Rodin Gen 1 at hyperhuman.deos.com. The interface is straightforward with input options for text or photos. When generating a 3D model, Rodin uses text prompts to create a 2D image, which is then converted into a 3D model. This method speeds up the initial stages. For example, generating an image of an 'evil robot king with a Stetson' was quick and resulted in a decent 2D image, later efficiently refined into a 3D model. After adjustments, the model’s precision and surface quality impressed me, particularly given the limitations of free accounts.

Meshi AI

Accessible at mesh.aai, Meshi AI allows style selection for models. It generated multiple suggestions, although some were less coherent. Opting for the best initial suggestion and refining it produced fair results, albeit with noticeable AI bump textures.

3D AI Studio

Available at 3di.studio.com, this tool now requires a subscription. The basic package provided 1,000 credits for model generations. The tool offered one 3D model draft, which could be refined. Though it included more details than Meshi AI, details like hook hands and inconsistencies required further tweaks, impacting usability.

Charmed AI

Found at charms.aai, this tool operates similarly to Rodin, starting with 2D images before generating the 3D model. Despite generating multiple choices, the final model displayed inconsistencies and bumps, requiring post-processing adjustments.

Practical Object Creation

For a desk storage pot resembling a tree stump, I compared all tools using a uniform prompt. While some tools needed more refinement and exhibited AI bumps, Rodin Gen 1 and 3D AI Studio delivered better results, albeit with practical difficulties for 3D printing.

Image-to-3D

Instant Mesh

Hosted on Hugging Face, instant.mesh had improved since my previous tests but still displayed inefficiencies. The Auto painting option was innovative, but model shapes could be inaccurate.

Rodin Gen 1

Rodin Gen 1's strength shone through in accurately recreating objects from images. Additional image angles could be input for multi-view generation, significantly enhancing model accuracy.

Other Tools

3D AI Studio, Charmed AI, and Meshi AI continued to show fidelity issues in detailed objects like Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot with inconsistent or incomprehensive interpretations of fine details.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of AI 3D model generators shows promising growth, especially Rodin Gen 1 leading the charge with high-quality output and efficient processes. As technology advances, the practical applications for 3D printing and creative design are bound to expand.

Keywords

• AI-generated 3D models
• Text-to-3D
• Image-to-3D
• Rodin Gen 1
• 3D printing
• Model generation
• AI tools
• Meshi AI
• 3D AI Studio
• Charmed AI

FAQs

Q: What are the strengths of text-to-3D tools?

A: Text-to-3D tools like Rodin Gen 1 convert text prompts into 3D models effectively by first creating a 2D image, allowing for rapid iterations and high-quality models.

Q: Which AI tool offered the best 3D printing model?

A: Rodin Gen 1 provided the best balance of detail and ease of 3D printing among the tested AI tools.

Q: Are free AI 3D modeling tools effective?

A: Yes, even free versions like Rodin Gen 1 offer substantial features and quality outputs, making them accessible for occasional use.

Q: How does Rodin Gen 1 handle image-to-3D modeling?

A: Rodin Gen 1 excels by accurately understanding object shapes and details even from limited angles, enhancing the reliability of the models.

Q: What improvements were observed in Instant Mesh since previous evaluations?

A: Instant Mesh has enhanced its capabilities yet still faces challenges in accurately reconstructing detailed objects from photographs.