Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 4.15
A poly bevel's roundness set too high
Figure 4.14
Increase Segments to create a rounder corner.
The setting of the Roundness slider specifies the roundness of the corner. Setting the
number too high will make the beveled edge stick out, as shown in Figure 4.15, although
that can be a valid design choice. You can allow Maya to set the roundness automati-
cally based on the size of the geometry being beveled. Select the Automatically Fit Bevel
to Object check box to disable the Roundness slider. Move the Segments slider to set the
number of new faces that are created on the bevel: the more segments, the smoother the
bevel.
Use the Bevel tool to round polygonal edges. You can also use it to add extra surface
detail, because Bevel creates more faces on the surface.
Having even a
slightly
rounded edge on a model—a box, for example—greatly enhances the
look of that box when it's lighted and rendered, because the edges catch much more light,
helping define the shape of the box. A perfectly flat corner with no bevel doesn't catch any
light, making the model look weaker.
