Computer Graphics World

Review n n n n Visual Effects The new Iray renderer within 3ds Max 2012 is simple to use, yet creates highly realistic images. with improvements to the UVW Modi- fier. The interface has been completely re- vamped, and new rollouts provide icon- based access to tools previously found in menus. The coolest new features are found within the Peel tool set, which uses a new LSCM (Least Square Conformal Maps) par- adigm to unwrap models. This new method is much more intuitive and should reduce unwrapping time considerably. For those who like to paint their texture maps, Viewport Canvas goes a long way to making 3ds Max into a usable 3D paint system. Viewport Canvas provides tools for painting color and patterns onto any bit map in an object's material in the viewport. The new version allows for cloning of ob- jects and textures within the paint system, extending functionality even more. You can paint in multiple layers directly onto a 3D object or onto a 2D canvas superimposed on the viewport. Viewport Canvas can export the painting in PSD format so you can modify it in Adobe Photoshop or a compatible pro- gram, and then save the file and update the texture in 3ds Max. Modelers will appreciate the new Graphite modeling tools. Conform brushes are a way to paint one object on the surface of another. It's a great way to create a road on an uneven terrain, for example. Constrain to Spline lets you restrict any Paint Deform brush to a path defined by a spline. For example, you can use this feature to emboss a spiral or star shape on an object's surface. Overall, this update to 3ds Max is a really good one. For the speed increases alone, the upgrade is worth it. Those who struggle with complex rendering options will love the new Iray renderer. The new physics engine and ad- ditional features that are peppered throughout the software simply add to the reasons you'd want to upgrade. n Graphics Video Animation Soſtware Film 3D Digital Animation Effects Soſtware Film Graphics Technology Design Computer Artists Visual Tools Systems Production Models Features Art Game Applications Games Web Computer Graphics Director Media Animated Scene Video Computer Graphics World your destination for all things CG www.cgw.com Follow us on October/November 2011 61

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