PROJECT FILES

A project file for 3DZ Studio (*.3vw file) is simply a text file with information regarding model type, which models are to be loaded into the project.  It also contains the filenames of the 3-View drawings, the Span, Height and Length of the model, and a reference point from which to draw the layout drawings.  It can also hold any notes made about the project.

Setting up the 3-View Drawings

The first step in using a project, and the main objective of implementing a project file, is to use 3-view drawings.  Once you have sourced your drawings from the internet or book etc, you must size and save these views into a format that can be read by 3DZ Studio.  This format is:
 - Must be a 256 colour PCX file
 - Image must be a square 2^n size (eg. 128x128, 512x512, 1024x1024)
Do not worry if the image appears highly distorted, as when it is used as a background it will regain it's original size

The top view must be with the nose facing LEFT.
The left view must be with the nose facing LEFT, fin UPWARDS.
The front view must be with fin UPWARDS.

 

Creating a New Project

The best use for a project is when creating a new HR model.  To do this, first load the _F.3DZ file, and all connected models.  Next, move to the 3-View Data Tab, and set the dimensions of the model, and a reference point.  This can be done either by entering real world dimensions, or by obtaining them directly from the model.  If you are obtaining them from the model, if it advised that you first move through each loaded 3DZ file and remove any unused nodes.  The dimensioning routines are based on finding the extreme nodes, and if there are extra nodes outside the normal dimensions, then your layout drawings will be improperly scaled.

Next, for each of the three views listed in the drop-down box (Left, Top & Front), choose the appropriate file that you created above.  Now click Create Project... and save the project with a .3VW extension.  You now have a working project file.  You should now re-load the PROJECT file, in order to create the background 3-Views.

 

Project File Notes

When you change the view textures, you must save and reload project for the changes to become active.
MAKE SURE YOU MANUALLY SAVE THE PROJECT BEFORE EXITING.  THE REMINDER MESSAGE ON EXIT ONLY SAVES THE MODEL FILES.


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