SCShell
2004-12-20, 03:04 PM
Hey there,
I suddenly realized that I never posted this little "unique" solution for recessing model text in a wall that would still be parametric and would render shadows. (Keyed into concrete or the like for address numbers etc.)
When I originally tried to figure this out, I was told that text could not be done as a void; however, I came up with a simple method which basically works great for elevations, 3d and rendered views.
First, set up a named reference plane flush with the wall. Then place model text, using the "select name" and then select it. Type the model text and place it. Then, go to properties and select the depth of the letters. Type in a negative number to make it as deep as you want. This will set the letters behind the reference plane, thus recessing it. Then, set the material of the text to glass, clear with 100% transparency and no reflection or smoothness. Once done, you can render it and it will appear to be keyed into the concrete wall since the glass is basically invisible and the shadows will be cast onto the back wall of the recessed letters. Hope this helps someone else.
Good luck
Steve
I suddenly realized that I never posted this little "unique" solution for recessing model text in a wall that would still be parametric and would render shadows. (Keyed into concrete or the like for address numbers etc.)
When I originally tried to figure this out, I was told that text could not be done as a void; however, I came up with a simple method which basically works great for elevations, 3d and rendered views.
First, set up a named reference plane flush with the wall. Then place model text, using the "select name" and then select it. Type the model text and place it. Then, go to properties and select the depth of the letters. Type in a negative number to make it as deep as you want. This will set the letters behind the reference plane, thus recessing it. Then, set the material of the text to glass, clear with 100% transparency and no reflection or smoothness. Once done, you can render it and it will appear to be keyed into the concrete wall since the glass is basically invisible and the shadows will be cast onto the back wall of the recessed letters. Hope this helps someone else.
Good luck
Steve