3DVIA® - 3DVIA

Remixing is one of the most powerful Shape tools in 3DVIA. When a 3dxml model created in Shape catches your eye, you can use it as a starting point for your own versions and also as a valuable learning tool. A great case in point is the CocaCola truck meticulously modeled by Rguyen.

Just a few detail shots (while Remixing in Shape) give a better idea of how far he went to create the details. Since I was already in Shape, I could use his model to see new possibilities and start modifying his model and learning from that as well. He put a LOT of work into this tractor trailer (articulated lorry)(camion).

The first thing I did was to replace the detailed textures with something that was visually easier to work with. I then selectively deleted bits and pieces, big and small, so that I had just the cab and just the trailer to work with. As I worked I incrementally published the results so that I could always go back and head in a new direction if needed.

Then I took the cab by itself and started playing with that to make a shorter wheelbase cab that I can use with lots of different trailers. (Rguyen already has a new log hauling trailer that he put up today!). Here I’ve removed the sleeper/living quarters section and then shortened the side tanks and reduced the number of lights.

Then the hardest part was ‘box selecting’ the rear axles, tires and other goodies so that I could shorten the whole wheelbase. Not everything moved the way I expected, but with a little fussing I got it to look pretty good.

Then I started to make some changes to simplify and just make it into a 3DVIA cab. Less dressy and more like a fleet vehicle (although the six headlights are pretty odd). Adding some different textures to the grille, stacks and air cleaners made it different very quickly. Shortening the bumper and adding some holes and, of course, dishing the wheels and adding some interesting (although certainly not traditional) wheel textures also helped change the overall look.

From start to finish I had a great time. I started with the best I could find, learned a lot from Rguyen’s modeling techniques and now I have a few different models to start with the next time I want to use the power of Remixing.

Have fun! Make more cool stuff!