Editing Clearview models without AC3D

[othmanskn]

After successfully understanding AC3D file format, I feel ready to do heavier graphic editing.

The first project is to get a heli model for a pointer which can point to coordinates. I don't need sophisticated shapes. The shapes in the controls.ac should be good enough.

I have to figure out the way models are programmed and textures used by Clearview.

Complete understanding of the inner workings of a program is the first step towards designing a better way of doing it and to debug problems that may crop up.

Nothing better than doing it the primitive ways.

[othmanskn]

Done.

Many files are not required but we must old old model parameter. I used the model for dragonfly at Ken's site.

After deleting many objects, I'm left with tail boom and mast.
Need adjustments.

Too small for far places so need another one which is bigger.


Observations:

1. Coordinates and alignments are easily entered.
2. Can use spreadsheets to do transformation such as sizes and reflections.
We can use formulae to process the coordinates.

The next project will be to export from a few free plans into Clearview/FMS models, using free 2D CAD programs.

3. Metasequoia for 3D editing
http://rcp.web.infoseek.co.jp/Rc_hp2/fms/Metasequoia_e.htm

It can export into FMS .x files which is used for 3D coordiantes and Clearview can import this file but not its textures.

I still have to learn how to apply patterns in metasequoia.
Maybe easier to just edit output files. Just put texture parameter.

Next: Flightgear.