measure tool

[sean_G]

sure is its called " draw curve".... check the length. be sure to properly implement the snap options. check object info for total surface area, and volume.
have fun

[modena]

cool...I didn't realise you could do that, but...
in Maya there is a cool measure tool that creates a line between two locators and the length updates automatically when repositioned.
I hate to be one of those "...with Maya" people, but I'm modelling from concept art that needs relatively precise dimensioning and it's proving to be quite a painful experience.
Has anyone written a script that can do this?
cheers
modena

[tachy0n]

Try this:
http://www.angelfire.com/art2/tachy0n/XSI/TapeMeasure.zip

Basically, when you run the script, it creates 2 nulls and measures the distance between them. The distance is indicated in real time in the ppg that pops up, under length. By default this is locked open so it isn't affected by other ppgs, but if you do close it, it can be found by clicking on the 'Dimensions' custom parameter set for the bigger null. You can also create multiple tapes, though i haven't tested it for large quantities.

Crits/comments more than welcome.

[modena]

awesome!
thats exactly what I was after
thanks heaps
modena

[theboykidney]

Stupid question......but how do you run that script! i got no idea on plugins etc...
Cheers

[tachy0n]

1. Extract the zip file to any convenient folder

2. Start XSI and either open an existing toolbar or create a new one. I usually have a dedicated toolbar just for scripts that i use often. Look under Views-->Custom Toolbars

3. Drag and drop the script file (it has a .vbs extension) from the folder to this toolbar. A dialog will open up where you can change the name etc.

4. When you press OK, a new button will be created on this toolbar that you can press to run the script.

[theboykidney]

nice, thanks.

[JDex]

I have just tried this script, and it seems to be doing something wrong...

The curve is about 30000 siu but the script says it is 6 siu... very odd.

Does it not work with long curves?

[tachy0n]

Seems to be working fine for me even for very large distances (in the millions)... but i'v only tested it on 3.5. Maybe there are some scripting differences in other versions ?

[CGTalk Moderation]

This thread has been automatically closed as it remained inactive for 12 months. If you wish to continue the discussion, please create a new thread in the appropriate forum.