This article specifies how to prepare data in 3DS Max, before importing it into WorkLink Create.

Finalizing the Hierarchy for Export

1. Preparing the Objects for Hierarchy Setup

• Convert All Objects to Editable Poly:
   
  • Selected all objects (Ctrl + A), right-clicked, and converted them to Editable Poly.
  • Removed unnecessary modifiers like Symmetry and Turn to Poly.
• Reset XForms to Ensure Uniform Scaling & Rotation:
   
  • Selected all objects (Ctrl + A), navigated to the Utilities Panel, and clicked Reset XForms → Reset Selected.
  • Right-clicked and converted them back to Editable Poly to finalize transformations.
• Centered Pivot Points for Individual Objects:
   
  • Used Affect Pivot Only → Center to Object for most objects.
  • Manually adjusted pivots for parts that need proper rotational alignment (e.g., choke lever, fuel valve, and other rotating components).
  • Used snapping (S) to align pivots precisely to rotation axes.

2. Structuring the Hierarchy

• Combining Like Objects:
   
  • Attached similar materials & objects (e.g., standoffs with related hardware, fuel system parts).
  • Renamed all objects logically, following a consistent naming convention:
    • motor_mid, motor_black, motor_dark for the engine components.
    • frame, handle, standoff, bolts for structural elements.
    • panel_red, panel_black, fuel_cap, etc., for identifiable parts.
• Using the Select & Link Tool to Create Parent-Child Relationships:
   
  • Linked bolts and hardware to their respective standoffs and frame components.
  • Connected fuel cap to the top panel, ensuring it moves correctly as a child.
  • Attached buttons and transparent covers to their base panels for accurate positioning.
  • Ensured that handles and levers had the correct hierarchy to function properly in Create.
• Grouping Related Objects Using Helper Points for Clean Organization:
   
  • Created a Point Helper (Empty Node) named motor to group all engine-related components.
  • Used the same method to organize major sections like the frame, top_panel, and exhaust.

3. Final Hierarchy Structure

• Frame (Parent)
  • Wheels, standoffs, and handle components.
• Motor (Grouped Node)
  • Mid, black, and dark metal components.
  • Fuel system (fuel cap, valve, filter).
• Top Panel
  • Includes attached fuel-related components, buttons, and transparent covers.
• Exhaust & Heat Shield
  • Properly grouped for clean organization.