Question for the GURU's?

[alexflyguy]

I am curious is there any software available right now that will allow me to import a 3D model and edit the colourscheme tga file? The reason i ask is this way it will allow someone to visually see the changes. Im just curious to know if there are other ways of editing or if the only way is to edit through changing the "skin" or "texture map?" thanks

[willsonman]

Nope. The only way to change the CS is through the TGA. If there was a material applied that is not on the CS you would have to have the original file prior to using KEMax or the KEX plugin for 3ds Max. Even then you would have to use the program that reads that format. Blender I think uses .blend extension and 3ds Max uses .max extension. Unless I have missed something there is no way to change that stuff.

[opjose]

Yes there are programs that permit you to load up a .3DS ( 3D Studio file ) and "paint" directly on the 3D model...

[alexflyguy]

is it possible to do that with any of the 3d models that have been made for RF? swaps files aswell? i am very interested and eager to hear more about this opjose. From what you have just said i'm assuming i would need to get my hands on the original .3ds file for a specific model to import it into a program, correct? as far as i know there isn't a way to reverse engineer/convert the finished .kex file or .g3x file backwards to edit.

[brentg]

Right Hemisphere's Deep Paint 3d and Maxon's Body Paint 3d will let you paint on the original .3ds 3d model in real time.

You can do this in Realflight on the models somewhat, Run Realflight and pick your model in the select aircraft menu. Start you Color scheme change as normal by saving a new file name, then open your tga editor and make some changes, save Go back to the select aircraft and pick model and select the new tga, it will make a new dds and you can see changes, you can turn the 3d model, zoom and see changes. you can switch back forth between these programs and edit the tga until your happy with the result, and theres no extra cost, not like seeing in real time but does work.

Brentg

[alexflyguy]

With each of those programs you just posted i would use them as pluggins for 3ds max? i just checked out each of their developers websites and it suggests to use with 3ds max as the project is being created. My next question for you guys, is this alot of hassle to do after the file has been finished? it would appear so from what you guys have said.

im just going to have to stick to my present technique of reloading the scheme in the editor for now until i understand more about using modelling software.

thanks guru's

[opjose]

is it possible to do that with any of the 3d models that have been made for RF? swaps files aswell?

No.

You must resort to Brentg's suggestion for those files.

[brentg]

I use Deep 3d sometimes and it is a standalone program, ther might be a plugin, dont know, I am just starting the learning curve, and yes it is a PIA to use , it does alter the tga file compression of materials and has to be imported back into 3d program and Photoshop and resaved, it does work well for shading a 3d model, with kinda a bump mapping effect, but a good tga editor can do the same but with more work. dont have the maxon product so cant tell you anything about it.

brentg

[phrank]

Yep,
Unfortunately there is not way to Paint a .kex model as you suggest, your only
options would be as Brent suggested.
It would be nice though, Phoenix can do it with PhoenixCreator, why not Knife Edge?
http://www.runryder.com/helicopter/t418064p1/