Modelling like in CAD - how do you?

[jasonio]

I've decided to expand my experience of 3d apps to 3ds max.

 

I'm experienced with XSI so know the principles - just a few things aren't obvious!

 

My first question is how do you reposition an element (edge or polygon) to be in the same position relative to the X, Y or Z of another element?

 

(I've attached a piccy to show what I mean)

 

Thanks.

[mattclinch]

turn on the 3d snap, make sure snaps use axis constaints toggle is checked and constrain to the Z axis, then select the edge and snap to the other edge.

 

also hit 'x' to get rid of those handles.

[jasonio]

Thanks Matt, that's what I was looking for.

 

Ok, Second question: Is there a way to do a three-point rotation of an object like in AutoCAD?

 

Also -I hope you don't mind me asking but - at Hayes, do you do all the modelling in Max or do you prefer to use a CAD program and import it into max later on? (Just wondering how well people in max-based archviz set-ups do things and how well you need to know the app.)

[batfink82]

3pt rotation accurately is not as straight forward in MAX. I tend to use ACAD for 3 point positioning of models or the 3pt alignment script available for http://www.scriptspot.com.

 

Our modellers use ACAD but I tend to do any modelling / adjustments in MAX as often it is quicker to stretch and reposition elements in MAX rather than ACAD. This is really quick if the changes are to a model which has been positioned, textured etc in MAX.

 

Lots of people think MAX is a very inaccurate modelling program but I enjoy modelling in MAX, sadly I dont get to do it anymore.

 

Stick with it!

[jasonio]

Cool. I had a go with the 3pt script. Seems to do the trick.

 

I'm starting to feel a bit more confident with it now. Don't know if it'll ever be as FAST as ACAD though...

 

Ok, a few more questions:

 

I understand how you select or create a ring selection which runs around the entire model but in XSI you can choose the start and end edges and select the edges that run between (for rings and loops). Can you do that in max?

 

And how do you set the centre of a pivot onto a vertex/endpoint? Or align it to an objects face? Or align another object to the face of another?

[batfink82]

i don't think you can specify which is the start/end of the selection.

 

you can move the pivot and snap to a vertex/align to world etc in the hierarchy tab (middle).

 

you can align faces in a number of ways, you can use grids as alignment tools. it depends on what you are trying to do.

[mattclinch]

Also -I hope you don't mind me asking but - at Hayes, do you do all the modelling in Max or do you prefer to use a CAD program and import it into max later on?

 

In MAX, though frequently we are provided with a model.