Digital Media Concepts/Shrinkwrapping

Shrinkwrapping is a technique used in 3D modelling to conform mesh onto the surface of an object.

Functionality
Shrinkwrapping functions by moving the vertices of a 3D object to positions that correspond with the surface of another object. The method of identifying surface points varies, but tends to align with the strategies covered below.

Projection Methods

 * The vertices of the shrinkwrap object are projected along an axis until they touch the surface of the target object. Vertices that are projected onto an angled portion of the target object will not be accurately located, resulting in a "crumpled" appearance.
 * The vertices of the shrinkwrap object are unfolded and mapped to the UV surfaces of the target object. This application of shrinkwrapping reads the target object as a flat surface, accurately representing the dimensions of the shrinkwrap object on the curved surface of the target object.
 * The vertices of the shrinkwrap object are snapped to the closest vertices on the target object.

Utilization in Rigging
Shrinkwrapping is used in the animation workflow as a method of conforming flexible mesh to a guide surface.

Skin Sliding
Shrinkwrapping can be used to project a 'skin' mesh onto a similarly proportioned body mesh.

When the vertices of the skin are moved, they will emulate real skin by sliding over the surface of the body mesh.

Attaching Accessories
Shrinkwrapping can be used to attach a piece of mesh to the surface of an object.

This application of shrinkwrapping can be used to apply flexible, profile-conforming decorations to an object.

Utilization in Mesh Creation
Shrinkwrapping is used in the modelling workflow as a method of creating simplified topology.

Retopology
Shrinkwrapping can be used to conform a subdivided surface to the profile of a high-resolution mesh.

This use of shrinkwrapping creates a simplified replica of the source mesh, aiding in the process of retopology.

Capturing Detail
Shrinkwrapping can be used to emboss the details of a high-resolution object onto a flat piece of mesh.