I don't know if you mean making the pattern or placing it, but for engraved patterns in 3ds Max you could use the SlideKnit script: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QclIjqFKkr0 http://3dtutorials.net/resources/3ds-max-script/slideknit-script-for-3ds-max/ If you mean making it you just have to create one of the pieces and…
Does it need to be modeled? Animated? Realtime? You could simply do it in texture, or instance a single shape around, I'm sure max has an array scatterer or two.