VF25F: Work in progress
I've been trying to put together a 3dsmax model of Alto's VF-25F from Macross Frontier for a while now -- pretty much since episode 6 was released or so. I haven't really messed with it since last April, so right now... starting from scratch.
I am not, however, a very good 3D modeler. I've probably rebuilt the thing from scratch a few times just out of frustration.
This time, though, I think I have the technique I want to use.
Step 1: Scan in the parts trees from the model kit manual, so all the parts are the same scale. I have Larry to thank for this: he got the 1/72 model kit at Nekocon '08, and sent the book my way. (I think that's the right kit, anyway)
Step 2: Use the manual to make a 2D model of each part in Illustrator, then import into 3dsmax.
Step 3: Assemble the flat 2D parts like a lego kit, using the instruction manual as reference. Parts won't look exactly right, since they're just flat extruded pieces, but it will help me get the structure down.
Step 4: Loft out the 2D parts so they don't look like legos any more.
Step 5: Texture and profit!
I'm about halfway through step 3 now.
For the 3d nerds, I'm also adding pivot points and structure as I go -- the intention is that when I'm done I'll be able to actually transform the thing.
Will post more when I get step 3 done!
edit: oh yeah, links to the shots from July '08:
- Rough animation
- More accurate modelling
I am not, however, a very good 3D modeler. I've probably rebuilt the thing from scratch a few times just out of frustration.
This time, though, I think I have the technique I want to use.
Step 1: Scan in the parts trees from the model kit manual, so all the parts are the same scale. I have Larry to thank for this: he got the 1/72 model kit at Nekocon '08, and sent the book my way. (I think that's the right kit, anyway)
Step 2: Use the manual to make a 2D model of each part in Illustrator, then import into 3dsmax.
Step 3: Assemble the flat 2D parts like a lego kit, using the instruction manual as reference. Parts won't look exactly right, since they're just flat extruded pieces, but it will help me get the structure down.
Step 4: Loft out the 2D parts so they don't look like legos any more.
Step 5: Texture and profit!
I'm about halfway through step 3 now.
For the 3d nerds, I'm also adding pivot points and structure as I go -- the intention is that when I'm done I'll be able to actually transform the thing.
Will post more when I get step 3 done!
edit: oh yeah, links to the shots from July '08:
- Rough animation
- More accurate modelling
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