ICTGAM416
Prepare and complete image rendering processes


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select suitable rendering applications and prepare and optimise rendering for 3-D modelling, animation and game development.

It applies to individuals who support the design, development and programming of basic digital games as part of a larger development team.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Analyse the rendering requirements

1.1 Identify the equipment and media required for the project

1.2 Identify the features of the rendering software packages used in the film and games industries

1.3 Analyse the design brief, or other reference sources, to plan and determine the rendering requirements

2. Select a suitable rendering application to achieve desired appearance

2.1 Select the rendering software with the capability to achieve the desired effects within the timeframe and budget

2.2 Confirm that the selection is according to the brief, system limitations and requirements

3. Prepare rendering application for desired outcome

3.1 Select and apply the appropriate image resolutions, image aspect ratio, and pixel ratio

3.2 Adjust the renderer attributes to obtain desired anti-aliasing

3.3 Adjust the renderer attributes to obtain other desired visual effects

4. Check the render integrity and quality

4.1 Refine the render integrity

4.2 Re-link any missing images and textures

4.3 Test the render times for optimising process

4.4 Test the alpha channels and opacity matts

4.5 Test the render layers and passes

5. Optimise the images for render processes

5.1 Complete pre-rendering optimisation tasks

5.2 Adjust and refine renderer attributes to optimise render times

5.3 Select the appropriate file format for output, according to the brief

5.4 Select the appropriate filenames and output destinations

6. Render the images and save files appropriately

6.1 Undertake the final rendering processes

6.2 Store or archive the files

6.3 Review the completed render to ensure compliance with the system and the brief

6.4 Confirm the rendering with the relevant personnel

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

identify equipment, media and rendering software requirements according to design brief and system requirements

use and optimise the rendering application components for best performance

adhere to requirements related to file sizes and formats

store the rendered components according to requirements.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

describe the features of software used for:

3-D animation

3-D modelling

lighting

rendering

shading

texturing

explain requirements for file formats and sizes

outline pre-rendering optimisation techniques

explain why rendering is required for 3-D modelling, animation or game development

explain the requirements for using computer networks for rendering.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the game development field of work, and include access to:

appropriate computer hardware

graphic rendering software

input and output devices

models and scenes to be rendered

style shots

briefs, specifications and schedules.

Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Reading

1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 6.3

Interprets a design brief containing complex games-design terminology

Interprets and comprehends a large range of diagrams, icons, symbols, text and letters necessary to use complex rendering software

Oral Communication

1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.2, 6.4

Uses effective listening and questioning techniques to obtain information about the design brief, system limitations, software capabilities, and requirements

Presents rendering outcomes using industry-specific terminology

Numeracy

1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1-3.3, 4.1-4.5, 5.1-5.3, 6.3

Uses whole numbers, decimals and percentages relevant to measurement, resolution aspect ratio, pixel ratio, scale, coordinates, colour, shading, and other attributes/variables in the application of rendering

Interprets numerical information and applies basic mathematical calculations relating to the timelines and budgetary information

Interact with others

6.4

Collaborates with others as required to confirm rendering output is acceptable

Get the work done

All

Applies formal processes when planning the rendering requirements, producing plans with logically sequenced steps that reflect awareness of time and resource constraints

Implements actions as per the plan, making slight adjustments if necessary

Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable problems in familiar work contexts

Understands the key principles and concepts underpinning the design and operation, of digital systems and tools

Manages and maintains files securely in a variety of storage media and formats


Sectors

Game development