Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Starting models
It is important when beginning a model to figure out what primitive shapes can be used to create rough
sections of the model. Look for sections of a model that can be described by a primitive object (or a
section of primitive object). This is especially useful with rounded shapes that can be described with a
section of a sphere, cylinder, capsule, or a torus. Using the polygons from a simple mesh can help you to
more quickly and accurately create complex forms.
In this case, a Quadball sphere will give you a great starting point because that shape is already based on
a cube and the polygons are all facing away from a central point. After the sphere is created, you can cut out
everything but the top panel of polygons and have a rounded square shape to snap to the geometry of the
pedestal. To get the proper setup, do the following:
1. Create a new sphere with the mode set to Quadball.
2. Set the Subdivision Level relatively high (around 9).
3. Create a sphere so that the top panel is centered around the top of the pedestal.
4. Set the Radius so that the top panel overlaps all of the geometry of the pedestal from the top view-
port.
5. After the spheres are created, select the four polygons on the top of the sphere and use the Shift+up-
arrow command to expand the selection of polygons out to the corners of the top panel.
6. Invert the selection by using the [ key and cut out the selected polygons.
You'll be left with a rounded square (see Figure 5-14 ) that can be used for the next phase.
With this panel of geometry in place, you are ready to use the snapping tools. Before engaging the snap-
ping tools, there is one last step to take. This form should be changed from regular subdivision surfaces to
Pixar subdivisions, or PSubs. This can be done simply by pressing the Tab key to change the selection to
regular polygons and then pressing Shift+Tab to enter PSubs. The only visual cue indicating the two dif-
ferent subdivision types at this level will be the corners of the geometry. Notice that in regular subdivision
services, the corners are rounded, but in PSubs, the corners come to a sharp point.
Figure 5-14: The initial cloth shape before conforming it to the table
 
 
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