Locomotive Body Shaping

[Schmalspur]

I'm trying to create the rounded edges of the locomotive, I thought I could do this with the chamfer tool. However I get an inconsistent chamfer which pinches at the middle point as seen in the picture below. Is chamfer the tool the one to use or is there a better way of doing it?



Thanks, Jack

[decapod]

One possible method:

1) Select the horizontal edge in the middle of the chamfer
2) With the Ctrl key held down, drag the mouse over the scaling widget (bottom right) to make the edge the same size as the ones top and bottom.

To make the edge even rounder, select the new vertical edges after the chamfer and chamfer again.

[Schmalspur]

I'm really having a real tough time trying to get it look right, I have started over a couple of times. Is it best to use an extrusion object or to shape a tube? Is it best to make the roof a separate part or to have it as part of the body?

Any tips are always welcome,

Regards, Jack

[decapod]

For complex shapes, the extrude tool is always best. I usually only make half with the centre line vertical, then I can just mirror it.

For the end curves, take a look at the cross sectional modelling tutorial on http://www.amabilis.com.

Basically, just do a series of small extrudes, scaling the ends each time.

I'm also starting a small tutorial on my blog (http://decapod-3d.spaces.live.com/blog/) to mirror Mike Porters Max one for MSTS2. However it may take a week or 2 to get done.

[Schmalspur]

Thanks Decapod, I'll be sure to follow your blog! I'll keep at the extrude method and see if I can get it right.

Kindest regards, Jack

[Schmalspur]

How can I save a part separately then import it into another 3dc scene?

Thanks, Jack

[decapod]

Right click on an object and "Send to Library"

In the other scene, just drag the object out of the library into the scene.

Note - you can also select a group or hierarchy with a right click first, then right click send to library.

Also worthwhile creating your own temp library file (use the open button and enter a new name)

Alternatively - X file export/import is the other option.

[Schmalspur]

Thanks Decapod, I plan to have stuff like standard wheel sets and hand rails that can be adjusted for each model.