Importing and Aligning Scan Data in 3DS Max

Now that we have a solid understanding of the generator model, we’re ready to import the scan data and properly align it within 3DS Max. This ensures accurate modeling and prevents misalignment issues down the road.

 

1. Importing the Scan Data

1. Go to File > Import > Import.
2. Locate the generator_scan.fbx file under the Models > Scan folder.
3. Open the file and keep the default import settings:
   • No animation
   • No lighting
   • No cameras
   • Units set to automatic
4. Click OK to import.
5. The scan will load in at world origin (0,0,0) on the home grid.

2. Unfreezing the Scan

By default, imported scans might be frozen in the scene. To unfreeze:

• Option 1: Click the snowflake icon in the Hierarchy panel.
• Option 2: Right-click the object → Select Object Properties.
  • Go to the Interactivity tab.
  • Uncheck Freeze and click OK.

3. Applying the Original Texture

Since the scan may appear blocky or low-resolution, we’ll adjust its texture settings:

1. Open the Material Editor (M key).
2. By default, it opens in Slate Mode.
   • Switch to Compact Mode (Modes > Compact Material Editor).
3. Use the Eyedropper Tool to select the scan’s material.
4. Once it processes the material:
   • Enable raw texture instead of compressed.
   • Click Show Shaded Material in Viewport → Select the detailed texture option.
5. Close the Material Editor once the texture updates.

4. Aligning the Scan with the Grid

Since the scan may be floating or rotated, we need to align it:

Step 1: Move the Scan to the Ground Plane

1. Select the scan (W key for Move Tool).
2. Switch to a Side View (F3 for Wireframe Mode).
3. Move the scan down until it rests on the black ground plane.
   • Since it's a scan, it won’t be perfectly flat, so split the difference between the left and right sides.

Step 2: Align the Scan to the Grid

1. Create a Box (Create > Standard Primitives > Box).
2. Move the Box to a known reference corner on the generator.
3. Select the Scan → Open the Hierarchy Panel.
   • Click Affect Pivot Point Only.
   • Move the Pivot Point to the box’s corner.
4. Switch to a Top-Down View (T Key) → Zoom in.
5. Adjust the pivot position so it aligns with the box.

Step 3: Rotate the Scan for Proper Alignment

1. Stop Affecting Pivot.
2. Use the Rotate Tool (E key) and adjust the scan:
   • Align it along the box so all sides are parallel to the grid.
3. Fine-Tune Using Transform Spinners:
   • Hold Alt while adjusting values for precise rotation.

Step 4: Verify Alignment

• Move the box back and forth along the scan’s side to check alignment.
• The scan should disappear evenly when moving the box across different views.
• If it looks aligned, delete the box.

5. Final Check Before Modeling

• If needed, re-adjust the pivot point and repeat the alignment.
• Make sure the scan is fully aligned with the grid.
• Now you’re ready to start modeling!