Need Terrain Help

[Bugga_Guy]

I know I can use the terrian modifier, but that's not what I want to use.

I have heard of a technique placing a box/patch that will conform over elevated splines to create a 3D terrain mesh. Does anyone know how to do this or can link me to a website? I think I involves reactor but I am not sure. Thanks in advance.

[Brian Cassil]

I believe what you are refering to is using reactor cloth and draping it over a network of splines to create your terrain. Right?

[Bugga_Guy]

Hi Brian,

 

Looking at Max's Index on reactor cloth seems to be it. Now I gotta try it out. Thanks

[Brian Cassil]

I wish I could help you out with specifics on how to use reactor cloth, but i've never done it myself, I've just heard of that technique. It would be great if you post your results.

[Noiré]

For terrain models with a clean mesh, I use the terrain modifier, then render out the z-depth from the top view in high res, then use the depth image as a displace map to create the "perfect" terrain.

[Ricardo Eloy]

I wish I could help you out with specifics on how to use reactor cloth, but i've never done it myself, I've just heard of that technique. It would be great if you post your results.

I use that technique myself and works really, really well. All you have to do is create the curves, extrude them and let reactor place the plane over it. You'll get a nice, soft quad mesh. Only be careful with the reactor settings on collision tolerance.

[Bugga_Guy]

I use that technique myself and works really, really well. All you have to do is create the curves, extrude them and let reactor place the plane over it. You'll get a nice, soft quad mesh. Only be careful with the reactor settings on collision tolerance.

 

Thanks for the tip, a nice clean mesh is exactly what I am looking for. I haven't tried it out yet, but I will soon, also Noire's technique is very interesting too - something worth looking into as well. We just got max 7 at our office, so we are currently working in setting that all up with my computer and the farm.