Script

Catenary curve generator

By loocas · 2013-06-01

Version: 0.6beta
Version requirement: 3ds Max 2009
Date updated: 2013-06-04
Votes: 5

Description

A tool that allows you to generate Catenary curves (realistically looking hanging rope/chain)

UPDATE 2013-06-04:
- Now you can create Catenary curves from your current scene selection. Very useful for bridges, electricity poles, ropes etc...
- You can also delete objects from the end anchor point list
- I've also added the feature to delete all the curves, or the last created, which makes it easier to navigate in more complex scenes

Additional Info

Features: - generation of Catenary curves in any arbitrary transformation space - generation of Catenary curves from one origin onto unlimited end points at once - you can specify an explicit gravity vector (via the gravity space warp) for more flexibility - tweakable parameters for the curves - random length % parameter of the Catenary curves for added realism INSTALLATION: I haven't provided an automatic installer, but all you need to do is to put the .mse file in your stdplugs/stdscripts directory and the .mcr file in your usermacros directory. After you start Max, you'll find the Catenary Generator tool under the duber tools menu. Enjoy!

Videos

Attachments

catenarygenerator_v0.6b.zip — catenarygenerator_v0.6b.zip18 KB

Tags: curve, bridge, chain, generator, rope, catenary, hanging

Comments (5)

bonzomartini · 2013-08-25

where is user macros directory for 3dsmax 2012?

Update

loocas · 2013-06-04

Ok, guys, I just updated the script. Give it a go. :)

mustafa mamdouh · 2013-06-02

It seems very interesting script, Thank you

barigazy · 2013-06-02

Nicely done. What I like most is the Wind influence, but I saw in the video demonstration that one thing missing... "Delete All" button. :)
Cheers!

Delete All

loocas · 2013-06-02

Yeah, I was thinking about including that feature, but I thought since the curves are named properly, selecting and deleting them shouldn't be an issue.

But I can always add that, if it's something that people want. :) Overall, it's still a beta.