In this DVD Chris Thomas takes you through the modelling of a Hudson J3a Steam train. If you have read Chris’s profile then you’ll know he was responsible for modelling the Great Pyramid of Giza for 2003’s Emmy Nominated Discovery special “Pyramids”, so who better to guide you through the trials and tribulations of advanced technical modelling. Chris will guide you through many aspects of a modelling project of this scale, including the importance of reference material, best practices, organisation techniques, creating your own simple MAXScripted tools, approaches for modelling many of the elements, and much more.

This DVD is aimed at a user with a good working knowledge of spline and poly modelling, as both schools are combined on this DVD. This is an ideal resource for anyone who may be involved in technical modelling or who wishes to move into the field.

Chapter 01: Defining Your Goals
Just what is it that your model has to be used for, are there any special requirements? We look at these issues here.

Chapter 02: Reference Materials
Reference material is key to a good technical model, we look at the reference types in this chapter.

Chapter 03: Scene Management & Workflow
Some tips on the best practices and workflow to use when working on a large technical model.

Chapter 04: MAXScript Tools
We look at some simple scripted tools and techniques that can make modelling easier.

Chapter 05: Modelling The Main Boiler
We start with our first practical element, the Main Boiler

Chapter 06: Modelling The Firebox
We move on to modelling the Firebox (rear boiler area).

Chapter 07: Modelling The Cab
Then the drivers cab.

Chapter 08: Modelling The Chassis
And then the chassis.

Chapter 09: Modelling The Trailing Truck
We continue by modelling the truck that holds up the Firebox and cab area (Trailing Truck)

Chapter 10: Modelling The Drive Wheels
Then on to the six main drive wheels and their breaking mechanisms.

Chapter 11: Modelling The Pistons/ Mechanisms
In this chapter we look at some of the techniques use in modelling the main pistons, drive rods and associated mechanisms.

Chapter12: Modelling The Front Truck
We quickly run through how the front truck was put together.

Chapter 13: Modelling The Plough
And then on to the Plough (Pilot) the element that fronts the train below the main boiler.

Chapter 14: Modelling The Pipes & Wiring
And we finish off the modelling with a look at how the various pipes and wiring elements were tackled.

Chapter 15: Final Touches & Wrapping Up
Finally we look at the best procedure for passing the model on along the production pipeline