I thought I should give this thread a boost(er). Here is a 6 min video showing off the Mk3a Cantilever I have created. Pretty much got everything I wanted done for the Cantilever and learnt a lot in the process: http://www.youtube.com/v/mMDyT0TYp_g
Summary of features (so far):
Each asset has 4 different reaches (distance between nearest rail and stanchion / post)
Each asset has 2 lods. A very detailed close up LOD and a much more easy on the PC 2nd LOD.
Ambient occlusion map used on most of the model
Insulators with specular effect as lights shines off the ceramic surface
Correct stagger modelled for curves (38cm) and straights (23cm)
Single and double track auto placement tools
Mid points (each wire run length is approx 1 mile, a mid point anchors the wires so that friction with the pantograph does not drag the wire forwards or backwards)
Overlaps (Leading out of the old wire and leading in the new wire)
Boosters (usually at every other overlap which means approx. every 2 miles there will be a booster to smooth the supply)
There are a few things I can think of that I have not created but I would say that as far as Cantilever Mk3a goes the vast majority is ready to go. I plan to release the source as well as the assets for those that want it or wish to improve / change for themselves.
Now I need to move onto headspan, portal and semi-portal. I think these will be easier to do than the Cantilever (or at least I hope so!).
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Thanks Pete. Yeh I have enjoyed it. Been coming back to it off and on and sorting out the blueprints and working round the limitations of the auto OHE placement tools has taken at least as long as creating the model.
Looking forward to getting Headspan, portal and semi-portal finished off and releasing a full pack for everyone to use in any route.
Jim
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