Hi, I’m wondering if anyone knows a way to generate a vector displacement map from an imported model. For instance I have a simulated water drop splash mesh from realflow…I want to generate a vector displacement map that will work when applied to a flat polygon plane…Any ideas?
Hi @CJH
The process for creating a vector displacement map in Zbrush is documented extensively here. When working with imported meshes that must exactly match another mesh in another file, be sure to read about the necessity for storing Morph targets in the Multi Map exporter documentation.
If you are unfamiliar with the way Zbrush works in general, I suggest starting in the “getting started” section of the Pixologic Classroom. You will need to convert your mesh into a mesh with a low poly base that matches the geometry you want to apply the maps to, and multiple subdivision levels that create the high resolution detail. You will need to understand many more basic concepts in the program than I can explain here.
Note that successfully applying externally created maps in a rendering application requires you to have expertise in that program as well. Every program does things differently. Be sure to check out resources dedicated to whatever program you’re using for information on how to get the best results in that program.
I’m not an expert on the subject, but generally displacement maps return much better results when they aren’t asked to do too much work–in other words the target mesh occupies mostly the same space as the displacement detail, and is only asked to supply fine detail, not major form.