Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
WHAT DOES THE SMOOTH MESH TOOL DO?
The Smooth Mesh option on the menu bar (Draw
3D Modeling
Meshes
Smooth Mesh) is not
intended to work on meshes. Instead, it converts 3D objects other than meshes into mesh objects.
You can convert a solid into a mesh, for example, using this tool. 3D surfaces can also be converted,
and it even works on region objects that are technically not 3D objects.
You might be tempted to convert a mesh to a solid, edit it, and then turn it back into a mesh.
Although this can be done, we don't recommend it. You'll find that your model becomes too
unwieldy to work with.
Stretching Faces
You now have the basis for the surfboard, though it might seem like an odd shape for a surf-
board. Next you'll start to form the surfboard by manipulating the faces and edges of the mesh.
Start by pulling two sides of the mesh to give it a shape more like a surfboard:
1.
Use the ViewCube and Pan tools to adjust your view so it looks similar to Figure 23.5.
This view will allow you to easily select and “pull” some of the faces that will become the
front and back of the surfboard.
2.
Click on the box and then right-click. From the shortcut menu, select Subobject Selection
Filter
Edge.
3.
Notice the mesh lines. This will help you see where to place the selection window in the
next step.
4.
Hold down B and then click and drag a crossing selection window over the middle faces
at the front edge of the box, as shown in Figure 23.5. The faces are highlighted, and you
see the XYZ gizmo.
5.
Place your cursor on the red X axis of the gizmo.
FIGURE 23.5
Hold down the
B key and place
a crossing selec-
tion window as
shown here.
Crossing selection window
