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View Full Version : Architectural Modeling in 3ds Max - "Poly Modeling"?

ShaneReil
02-03-2010, 05:45 PM
Hi,

I'm relatively new to modelling in 3ds Max. I'm currently drawing up a building for an Architect. I've modelled it in ArchiCAD and imported the model into 3ds Max. This was the method I was taught to use.

The Architect I'm working for put me in contact with a 3D Visualiser who told me that you notice the failings of this method when it comes to detailed texturing and painting.

He told me, "For modeling organic-style architecture use point mode modeling. This means placing vertices in key places and then connecting them up to create a surface. It’s the fastest way to do it really and generates very clean models." He showed me this process in Cinema 4D and it is very easy to follow. He doesn't use 3ds Max himself.

I've looked through the help section in Max and extensively online to try and find out how to do this in 3ds Max with no luck. Is "poly modeling" the closest 3ds Max version of this method?

At the moment, I just want to trace over the ArchiCAD model I've imported into Max so I'll end up with a clean model and hide/delete the exported one. It's driving me nuts.

Any help appreciated,
Thanks,
Shane.
musashidan
02-04-2010, 07:52 PM
The retopologise tools in the graphite toolset are relevant to your query but would be more for organic modeling rather than arch modeling. What type of structure are you trying to create exactly?
ShaneReil
02-05-2010, 09:31 AM
The retopologise tools in the graphite toolset are relevant to your query but would be more for organic modeling rather than arch modeling. What type of structure are you trying to create exactly?
It's a large, timber frame, split-level house with curved walls and roofs. I've started tracing the ArchiCAD model by converting a plane to an editable poly and deleting it; then using the graphite toolset to create new polygons. Are there any good tutorials/books on this method. I can't find any that relate to architecture?
ShaneReil
02-05-2010, 10:32 AM
The retopologise tools in the graphite toolset are relevant to your query but would be more for organic modeling rather than arch modeling. What type of structure are you trying to create exactly?
Thanks for the reply. It's a large, timber frame, split-level house with curved walls and roofs. I'll check out the retopologise tools in the graphite toolset. So far Ive used the following method to trace the ArchiCAD model:
Create a plane and convert to editable poly. Delete the plane; switch to create poly and create polygons by snapping to points on the ArchiCAD model. Are there any tutorials relating to architectural modeling/ accurate hard modeling using this method? I cant find any at all.
musashidan
02-05-2010, 03:24 PM
Shift-dragging edges is alot quicker than the create poly tool. But, you should look into the graphite toolset if the building is curved. Snapping to points on a Cad model probably isn't the most efficient way to do it. F1 Maxhelp and search for the freeform tools in graphite. they're pretty easy to get to grips with. Are you just modeling the exterior of the building or do you have to show a cutaway revealing the timber structure/insulation/etc?
ShaneReil
02-06-2010, 01:34 PM
Cheers for the help. Much appreciated. I'm modeling the exterior and interior of the building, I don't have to show the structure.
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