The History of 3D Computer Animation

The history of 3D computer animation can be traced from inception to commercial use. First we need to see where it was conceived, and then how it eventually wound up in our daily lives.

First appearance.

Though there are many contributors to computer animation, 3D animation is often attributed to William Fetter. William Fetter worked for Boeing during the 1960s using computers to animate and design certain models. One of his projects involved making what came to be known as "The Boeing Man." It was a three-dimensional representation of the human body. It was then that Fetter coined the term "computer graphics."

First commercial use.

A number of years later, in 1976, Ed Catmull and Fred Parke popularized the use of 3D computer graphics and animation when they used it in a movie called "Futureworld." In the movie a human face and hand was animated using the technology to visually add a futuristic feel to the film. Since then the technique has been used in many movies, and has become a standard in film, television and video games.

Along came Star Wars!

Soon after "Futureworld," the world was introduced to "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope." There director George Lucas applied 3D graphics to not only enhance the atmosphere of the film, but as an integral part of the entire movie. This propelled "special effects" in cinema to new heights. The immense success of "Star Wars" would lead film makers to rely heavily of animation, in particular 3D animation.

Major popularity shift

"Toy Story," the first feature-length 3D animated movie, premiered in 1995. The much-anticipated movie broke box office records and ensured that 3D animation would be a staple in the cinematic community for decades to come.

3D today

Since "Toy Story," technology has advanced 3D animation to become a daily part of American life. It can be seen everywhere from video games to Internet ads. It can even be created using readily available software.