Sunglasses Modeling training video
Video tutorial for MODO 501 by Adam O’Hern (community member)
This new series of video tutorials by master MODO modeler Adam O’Hern is ideal for designers or anyone interested in hard-surface modeling techniques in MODO 501. It starts at the very beginning, covering everything from the overall MODO user interface to the most commonly-used tools and techniques for hard-surface modeling and rendering in MODO. A rapid prototype of the glasses is produced as part of the tutorial.
Step-by-step instructions walk the viewer (that’s you) through the process of modeling and rendering a pair of whimsical sport glasses from reference images and using a head mesh as an underlay. Every step is fully documented and repeatable, and each video progressively introduces MODO tools and techniques in an understandable (not overly lengthy) session.
MODO files are provided for each phase of the project so you can start at any stage of the project.
In addition to the emphasis on modeling and basic rendering techniques in MODO, there are two “bonus” videos that lead you through advanced rendering, and printing an inexpensive rapid prototype of the glasses at the Shapeways website.
This video tutorial was developed for MODO 501. Users of later versions of MODO will find the tutorial useful, but will have to adapt some instructions to new techniques found in more recent versions of MODO.
Detailed descriptions of video tutorial segments
Video segment 1
Project overview
Adam provides a summary of the sunglasses project over a fast-motion project overview.
Video segment 2
MODO user interface introduction
This is Adam’s “universal” MODO intro, which he uses in all of his tutorials. It’s freely available to the public.
Topics covered:
MODO 501 default layout
Keyboard shortcuts that will speed your workflow
3D viewport navigation
Creating a unit primitive
Drawing primitives: the basics
Selecting geometry
Video segment 3
Project setup
Topics covered:
Import / rename
Scale / position
Duplicate
Set projection type
Making (=) modifications to properties values
Creating a group locator
Video segment 4
Frame construction
Topics covered:
Creating a new mesh
Single-poly cube
Copy / paste polys
Move and rotate vertices
Bridge edges
Edge extend
Action center > origin and scale to align verts to symmetry plane
Video segment 5
Modeling the temple arms
Topics covered:
Linear falloff basics
Action center > element
Hide and unhide geometry
Edge slide
Slice
Video segment 6
Connect temple arms to the main frame
Topics covered:
Linear falloff + ease-out
Tools > basic > thicken
Using the [tab] key
Introduction to subdivision surfaces:
A basic explanation for industrial designers
SubDs versus NURBS
Video segment 7
Using Pixar subdivision surfaces
Topics covered:
What are PSubs?
Creating the ‘cut’ between the temple arm and frame
Tools > duplicate > mirror
Video segment 8
Importing temple logo from Adobe Illustrator
Topics covered:
Prepping AI art for export
Geometry > freeze curve elements
Video segment 9
Modeling the lenses
Topics covered:
Using [D] to SDS subdivide
Action center > local
Falloff > radial
Video segment 10
Basic rendering
Topics covered:
Introduction to preview render
Render settings
Camera settings
Directional light settings
Base material settings
Environment
Enabling Ray GL
[M] to assign materials
Drag / drop material presets in poly mode
Render window tour
Video segment 11
Bonus: Advanced render setup
Adam shows he produced the final renderings for the project using the advanced rendering and lighting features of MODO. This video is not a “how to” video; it is an opportunity to watch a master user of MODO get the desired final look.
Video segment 12
Bonus: Shapeways.com export
In this bonus video, Adam goes through the process of uploading a COLLADA file to Shapeways.com, including specifying the color and finish. After approving the project online, he receives the completed sunglasses model by return mail.
