3D Modeling of a Chain in 3DS MAX
In this tutorial you create a simple 3D chain like the one in picture 1 by using cone objects in 3D Studio MAX. (Create > Standard Primitives > Cone)
Turn off the Grid
This tutorial doesn't require using Grid in 3DS MAX. I think it's best to turn it off always when you don't need it. Grid can be turned off by taking the following steps: Activate the Top view by right-clicking on it. Press g from keyboard. Repeat the procedure for each four views.
Creating the Cone
Create a cone with the following parameters In the Top view:
Radius 1: 1
Radius 2: 1
Height: 5
Height Segments: 1
Cap Segments: 1
Sides:32
Copying and Modifying of the Cone
Make a copy of the cone in the Front view. Set the following parameters for the copy:
Height: 8
Height Segments: 30
Use Align tool and place the copy precisely on top of the other cone according to the picture 2.
Cone with a Bend Modifier
Add a Bend modifier to upper cone according to the picture 3:
- Select the object
- Click Modifier List in modify panel
- Choose Bend from the modifier list. Set the following parameter in the Bend modifier:
Angle: 180
Edit Mesh: Remove Caps
Hide the curved cone. Select the straight cone and add Edit Mesh modifier to it. Activate polygon sub-object mode. Choose both caps of the cone and remove them by pressing delete from the keyboard.
Unhide the curved cone and hide the straight cone. Add Edit Mesh modifier to the curved cone and remove both caps also from it.
