3ds max spline profile problem

KurtR

Hi:)

I'm having a couple of issues when using an edible spline. First problem is when I convert a vertex to either bezier corner or smooth, it dosent affect the spline. Never happened before so not sure if there's a workaround here. I created the spline from a surface.

The second problem is the curvature of the profile Im creating. You can see in the image how the thickness is not consistant along the surface. The idea was to use a profile to create the top on a mantle clock. Any other approaches to this is well recived. Tnx.

Memory

Hey Kurt. Your first problem could be a couple of things you'll need to try. When you create a curve from a surface, it's going to put a vert anywhere there was a vert on the edge you selected to make the spline. It looks like you know this, or can see this. Bezier corner tangets move independently so it's possible to get a linear segment between two bezier corner verts on a spline. With those verts selected (smooth, bezier, bezier curve) right click and use "reset tangets" to see if that gives you the shape you want. If not, I'd recommend removing some of those verts and then converting the remaining verts to bezier/bezier corner and resetting the tangents (youll be able to make a smooth curve with less points.)

As for your 2nd issue, your profile path is basically not orienting to keep volume along the profile path. I don't typically use curves for things like this but if I did (and I'm not sure the method you used) I drew a profile curve, then a path curve. With the profile curve selected, I went to the create tab of the command panel and chose compound objects, then loft. From there, because I had my profile curve selected, I clicked path, then on my path curve. What I made didn't lose volume like yours has. (I can't upload pictures from where I'm at so maybe just try it out.)

You could then convert that to editable poly and do whatever the hell you want with it!

KurtR

Thanks for lengthy response, Memory

On the first problem I tried out the reset without luck, but I removed all 4 I had there as suggested, and divided it again, getting 4 clean verts, and I was able to move them as regular again. Tnx!

The second problem I havent tried out yet, but Ill give your suggestion a shot. I might extrude the surface from it's normal instead in the end and shape it, but I really love to try to get full control over splines. I think they are really awesome and quick for a lot of that stuff (when its working .

tnx a bunch!

KurtR

wow, the loft approach was nice. I used a bevel profile and sweep first time around. This third option did indeed keep the volume intact. Tnx again!