Modeler

Chapter 2: Introduction to Modeling 25Selection Mode: Points, Edges andPolygonsThe process of object editing involves manipulating points,edges and polygons. It will include selecting some portion of anexisting object, choosing the operation to perform, adjusting anyparameters for that operation, then carrying out the operation.Left: Points that make up a head, Right: Polygons that make upthe same headNOTE: The Origin is the default rotation center(called the pivot point) for objects in Layout.Keeping this in mind as you model your objectswill make the objects load into Layout properly without havingto move the pivot point.Editing ObjectsGenerally, to build a 3D object, you create, combine, and modifysimple shapes into more complex shapes. This is known asediting. The basic building blocks (i.e., primitives) include cubes,spheres, cylinders, and other shapes. Using tools not unlike thosefound in a wood or metal shop, you form a realistic representationof the envisioned object.The concept of selecting is very important to Modeler. Selectionis the act of specifying either the object itself, or a portion of it,that you intend to edit next. The most basic elements that you canmodify include points, edges and polygons — the dots and multisidedshapes that make up all objects. Any number of points,edges, polygons, or objects, in any combination, may be selectedfor a specific operation.NOTE: Everything in a layer is consideredselected when nothing is selected.NOTE: When selecting and unselecting, makesure that no Modeling tool is currently active. Youcan usually tell if a tool is active based on themouse pointer. You can quickly deactivate any tool by pressingthe Spacebar (or RETURN); however, if no tool was active,you will change the edit mode.HINT: Have a Plan!If you were building a desk, you would work from a sketch, aphotograph, plans, or a small model of the desk you intended tobuild. This approach also works well for Modeling 3D objects.Having the actual shape or a representation of the object infront of you while you design is invaluable, and it will aid youin determining size, shape, angle, color, and more. Wheneverpossible, work from pictures or small-scale models. Picturebooks, magazines, blueprints, and visual dictionaries are usefulcompanions to have nearby.