ZBrushCentral

How do I hollow out a group of objects to create one shell? .obj file.

ZBrush Usage Questions
#1

I have a model I’m working on in Rhino which has several shells (that are not water tight), and I’m hoping to get just one outer shell that is water tight using ZBrush.

I’m pretty new to the program, but the company I work for just payed an exorbitant amount to have an outside source do it, and realizing they have many more of these kinds of models in their future bought ZBrush.

So far:3D Scans of multiple models
Compiled in Rhino (analisys says there are hundreds of holes/errors keeping the several million polygon models from being water tight)
Turned into .obj file

I’ve been trying to find which functions/commands to use, but I haven’t been able to nail it down.

I’ve inserted a wire-frame and rendered view of a section of the model to give you an idea of how crazy this model is.

Any advice?

Thanks!

Attachments

Surface.jpg

Mesh.jpg

#2

you can use almost any other application to cap those holes.

but in Z you can just use dynamesh.
Beyond that we would need more information about what it is your final output is, detail level, etc.

#3

Is The process correct:


  • 1. Dyna mesh your object
  • 2. Use Insert Mesh Brush with a good depth and bring in a mesh like cube to draw on surface
  • 3. UnMask
  • 4. In Geometry Menu under DynaMesh set the thickness of shell
  • 5. Click on Create Shell button
  • 6. Drag cursor while holding Ctrl key and then you have it?

Well it doesn’t work, what is wrong with my process above, as this is what videos show…?

Ziggy

#4

In number 2 above, you have to use a subtractive insert. In other words, select the InsertCube brush and hold down the Alt key while you draw the cube. Then do steps 3, 4 & 5. Step 6 is not needed.

#5

Thanks guys. I’m bogging down my machine right now gettin’ work done for the man, so I haven’t had time to finish this process. I am finding a problem with the DynMesh not being a high enough resolution, or poking holes in my objects, but it’s much further than I was getting on my own!

I’ll keep you updated with some results soon!

#6

If you are importing the object as an .obj file, look in ‘Tool>Preview’ and make sure the mesh fills the preview window at least. It can be a bit larger if need be. If it is small, go to ‘Tool>Deformation’ and click ‘Unify’. Dynamesh resolution is dependant on object size in ZBrush world space.

This usually happens when the mesh is very thin and a high enough Dynamesh resolution can not be obtained.

#7

Thanks a Million, knew it was something I was overlooking… this is what makes this forum so great, the help we get from guys like you… zber2.

Ziggy

#8

So here’s a little more on my progress. I can’t go much higher than the 1040 resolution, because it either crashes my computer or ruins the model.

Is there any way to do a dynamesh with polygons instead of nurbish boxes?

Thanks for the help so far!

PS It is important to know that the polygons and insane looking meshes at the top are intentional parts of the piece. Notice how the detail around the mouth gets lost and how the seam begins to round itself off.

Attachments

HeadsPost.jpg

HeadsPre.jpg

#9

[QUOTE=
Is there any way to do a dynamesh with polygons instead of nurbish boxes?
[/QUOTE]

What do you mean?
Dynamesh is polygons.

You don’t have to have a super dense dynamesh either. Just enough to hold onto your major form changes. After that you can use subD levels and a projection to bring back the actual details.

#10

My ignorance betrays me. What I meant to ask was can I turn the box shaped polygons into triangular ones which conform to the originals. I need to play with subD levels though, and discover what this black magic is of which you speak!

#11

DecimationMaster will give you tri’s.

#12

I have come right in hollowing out my model, but the inner mesh is playing havoc with me… do I go higher in a Dynamesh mode?

See all the spikes that are created, I need to send this on for 3D Printing… Also no depth at some places…

See attached image…

Ziggymesh ugly.JPG