Modifying surface but not mesh

[NeonZebulon]

Hi everyone.

 

I'm currently working on an architectural project and i'm trying to create a steel structure through the lattice modifier.

 

The thing is : I modified my first shape with NURMS subdivision and if you don't transform it into an editable poly/mesh or use an other modifier (lattice for example) well the mesh stays the same it was to begin with.

However if I do one of the things I talked about, which is basically modify the object in anyway possible, the NURMS Subdivision transforms my mesh just the way Turbosmooth would, i.e. reduce the mesh size and smooth the form.

 

I was wondering if it was possible to just transform a shape (smoothing it) while keeping a large mesh. Otherwise I can't really progress with my project or my steel structure will make my building a freakin prison ...

 

Thanks for your help !

 

First picture, my object with its basic mesh :

http://s4.noelshack.com/upload/9911674823391_01.jpg

 

Second picture, Nurms Subidivision is used the mesh is not altered :

http://s4.noelshack.com/upload/7084658373309_03.jpg

 

Third picture, if I modify the object the mesh changes :

http://s4.noelshack.com/upload/2636728220808_04.jpg

 

Last picture, this the kind of mesh i'd like to keep after modifying my object in size and shape so that it's close to a real way of assembling metal structures with a true triangulation :

http://s4.noelshack.com/upload/9032583941271_05.jpg

[Corey Beaulieu]

I have not used this, but it seems like it could help you:

 

http://www.scriptspot.com/3ds-max/scripts/subdivision-reversion

 

It removes subdivisions.

[NeonZebulon]

Thanks !

 

Is there any other way, possibly a free one ? ^^