Cartesian Co-ordinate System

The Cartesian Co-ordinate System

When working in 3D design or graphics, we are working with the illusion of 3D space in a 2 dimensional environment. Its also uses the same co ordinate system for teaching algebra.

<——— Rene Descartes (1596-1650)

“Cogito Ergo sum” = “I think,therefore I am”

Rene Descartes a French mathematician developed the Cartesian Co ordinate System in 1637 He published Geometry which was a combination of algebra and aswell as geometry . He was one of the most important western philosophers in that century. he was called ‘Father of Modern Mathermatics

when working in 3D graphics we are working in a 2D enviroment. which to us would be a computer screen. to allow us to do this, 3D software such as 3Ds Max and other programes, allow us make use of the Cartesian Co-ordinates system to create the illusion of working in a 3D space. its also the same method for teaching algebra.

 

2-Dimensional Cartesian Co-ordinate System
The 2Dimensional Cartesian system consist of 2 axis, the X and Y axis. They are both perpendicular to each other. on the diagram to the X axis is labeled at the bottom and the Y axis is labled at the top left of the screen. Another way to remember this is X facing the bottom and Y heading to the sky. The X & Y axis form the XY plane. the values on the axis can be a positive or a negative (+) (-) depending on it’s location, reason being is because the arrows on the axis can go on for ever. the point were both axis meet is called the meeting point, on the map that would be represented with the number 0.

3-Dimensional Cartesian Co-ordinate System
The 3-Dimensional cartesian co-ordinates system started early in the 19 century. this axis was know as the Z axis (Depth axis). This axis lets us locate any point in 3-Dimensional space. The reason why this is popular the the 2-Dimensional is because it can represents width, height & length (3D)

3D Software Using 3-Dimensional Cartesian Co-Ordinates
Most 3D software use a series of viewports to view shapes, for example 3D Studio Max uses Top Viewport,Left Viewport, Front

Viewport & Perspective Viewport.

 

 

The Left/Right-Hand Cartesian Co-Ordinates System

How to remember the directions for the XYZ axis

• Make sure that your right hand is flat and the palm side facing up
• Pointing right extend the thumb out to the side, that represents the X axis
• leave the index finger extend the finger fully away from you, that represents the Y axis
• Point the middle finger to the sky, that represents the Z axis