Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting comfortable with selection and memorizing the keyboard commands
is a very important part of working quickly in Silo.
M anipulating Objects
With a feel for how to see models from all angles and how to select the various
elements, you are ready to start some actual modeling using a mainstay of 3D
software: the manipulator. In coming chapters we'll learn about more freeform
ways to work with polygon elements and objects, so don't get discouraged if
working with the manipulator feels a little too technical. Regardless of your
workl ow, however, knowing how to use the various manipulators is crucial to
your 3D modeling success.
A manipulator is a small 3D object with handles that appears next to the
current selection and lets you interact with it. The three handles of the basic
manipulator point in each of the dimensions of a Silo scene's space. The colors
on the manipulator match the red and blue on the Silo grid and represent
the X (red) and Z (blue) directions. The green side represents the Y or vertical
direction. To start, the manipulator will align with the Silo directions on the
grid, but as you work with a model and adjust the manipulator the orientation
will likely change.
Three single-function manipulators in Silo allow the user to move, scale, and
rotate objects and polygon elements. Each manipulator has outer handles and
a center handle that you can click on and drag to perform its functions. There
is also a Multi-use Manipulator with handles for all move, scale, and rotate
operations; and a Snapping Manipulator that allows for precise movement
and rotation. With the exception of the snapping manipulator, buttons for
all the manipulators are in the bottom center of the screen, and hotkeys are
on the Q row of the keyboard. You can access the snapping manipulator in
the main menu via Selection   >   Manipulator Tool   >   Snap . Figure 1.7 is a
breakdown of each manipulator and what the various handles do.
Once you have had a chance to review the chart of the various manipulators,
it is time to start playing.
Open a Silo scene and create a primitive base bust ( Create   >   Custom
Primitive   >   Base Bust ).
Try selecting each element type and using each of the handles on the
various manipulators to modify the bust.
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