When used to IKEA’s easy-to-follow manuals, you’d be forgiven for thinking that installing a sectional garage door should be easy too.
However, static pictures don’t always convey the correct sequence of steps. Especially when you’re on the clock; installers should be able to get the job done without too many problems.
With 3D animation, we’re able to focus effectively on the steps that need the most explaining.
Installation manuals can be quite dense and complex. Our installers need a quicker way to learn.
In the past, ConDoor used a video recording of an installer (in conjunction with a traditional manual) to explain how their doors should be installed.
Filming required setup time and corrections or updates can only be done with setting up the physical space again.
Especially when highlighting tiny parts in tight corners, the camera has difficulty capturing the right steps when the installer’s hands are in the way.
With 3D animation, we’re able to peel away every layer of ConDoor’s system, no matter the size. The virtual environment is an opportunity for ConDoor to add/remove steps, change lighting or camera angles at will.
Together we’re actively searching for the best way to teach installers how to install their doors quick and correct.
ConDoor’s TS100 system has been around for a while, but for this particular project there were enough changes to animate the installation again. This time around we focused on the USPs, such as a new way to measure equal lengths across the horizontal rails:
Making an animation is a unique experience each time, but generally follows these steps:
We’re in the business of telling compelling stories, but first we need to know what story we’re telling. Exactly. This means interviews with the client and relevant experts, to make sure I have a good grasp of the source material.
Provided resources are closely looked through, follow-up questions are asked and available .STEP 3D files are studied for our purposes.
This stage is critical: we need to decide how the precious attention span of our viewer is spent most effectively. Writing a script is great exercise in determining what is important.
A storyboard goes a step further: with quick sketches the story becomes visual. With simple lines and strong colors, we quickly discover what suits our story best. Also: changing the story in this stage is very easy!
Now we know what the story should be, I peel away individual pieces of the delivered 3D model, create surfaces that can deform and put them in believable environments.
In this stage there is a quick back-and-forth with various experts, to make sure the shown environments are credible and up to technical specifications.
Camera motion is added, panels are removed and products fly into view: now everything comes together! Realistic surfaces and lights make sure the stars of the show shine bright!
In between the animation and final video, various versions are shared with experts to validate the look and technical accuracy.
When the animation is done, product labels and other graphical elements are added to help tell the story. And to top it off? A professional voice-over to guide the viewer through the story.
Although most projects revolve around the installation of garage door systems, each project has multiple creative challenges to overcome.
ConDoor’s newest product, the CND2, combines a simple exterior with powerful electronics. In this animation they asked to show the general installation steps, in addition to the setup of the software.
Different from our other projects together: the recreation of the digital screen, to the last button. Also the animation of the many cables was a fun challenge.
The installation of the High-Line system combines mechanical steps with programming the motor.
Normally we show these steps in a clean studio environment, but to render out a residential space with nice lighting was a welcome change.
Hi, I’m Thomas. For over 10 years, I’ve helped companies tell their stories using animations and illustrations.
I’m not an engineer, but I’m able to quickly grasp complex material so we can focus on telling the best story possible.
But more importantly? Making your product shine.
Your product deserves the spotlight, but is easily buried in tiresome PowerPoints and technical PDFs.
Together we tell stories engineers believe and customers attract.
Plain and simple: I help visualize your story. No matter the technique, software or application. During the concept-phase I discover who you are and what you’re trying to say.
Then the sketching starts: together we look for the right story to tell, while keeping your client central to everything. In this collaborative process you see the story taking shape, with plenty of room for input and change.
With my background in Interaction Design, I’m trained to keep the target audience central to my creative decisions. Before (and during) the creation of anything visual, I ask myself: ‘Who is this for?’ and ‘How can we best achieve the desired result?’.
I’m not an expert in your field, but I don’t need to be; curiosity is all that matters. I talk with your engineers, to make sure our story is accurate and believable.
But first and foremost: I’m in love with animation as a craft; bringing something static to live is always a great joy!
Depending on the briefing, the lead time varies between 4 – 6 weeks. If you have a tight deadline, we can always discuss getting priority on my schedule.
A typical animation follows these steps:
As a freelance 3D animator, I’m able to communicate and process feedback incredibly fast. No need for a complicated onboarding process; we can start almost immediately.
Clients repeatedly express their pleasant surprise on my respond-time; having direct communication makes sure we can move fast, while achieving high-quality results.
