PSAD: The Moving Image

Maya Modelling

by ward2021

My assignment task is to design and model a Space-Based Escape Pod using Maya. In this project, I aim to showcase my hard surface modelling skills. To support my work, I will include referenced images of my design and screen captures throughout the development process. These captures will encompass wireframes, orthographic projections, and other relevant information contributing to my design process.

Design Inspiration

To gather design inspiration, I turned to Pinterest and conducted a search for existing space escape pod designs. I curated a dedicated board that showcases my findings, and you can view it here to explore the various designs I discovered.

Figure 1: Here is a screenshot of my Pinterest board, displaying a selection of the designs I have pinned for reference.

Modelling Process

I initiated the modelling process using Maya software with my sketches and inspiration board as my guide. Specifically, I referred to two YouTube videos that provided valuable insights and techniques for achieving the desired design outcome. By combining elements from both videos, I meticulously crafted the model. Presented below is a comprehensive account, resembling a step-by-step procedure, showcasing the evolution of the model.

Click images to expand.

Figure 2: Inserting a simple cube poly modelling shape.
Figure 3: Using the mesh menu to triangulate the cube.
Figure 4:flipping triangle edges to that there appears to be a cross through the faces of the cube.
Figure 5: The results of the previous step.
Figure 6: Using the edit mesh menu to add a bevel.
Figure 7: Altering the settings of the bevel to enlarge all of the smaller squares.
Figure 8: Selecting off of those bevels then entering the edit mesh menu to circulate the squares.
Figure 9: The results from the previous steps.
Figure 10: Removing those bevels and smoothing the product using the smooth tool on the mesh menu.
Figure 11: Using the create menu to add a sphere to the center of the cube.
Figure 12: Deforming the product using shrink wrap which allow the final shape to be created.
Figure 13: A wireframe view of the aftermath of the shrink wrap, then deleting the history to clean my component menu.
Figure 14: Removing the cube shape and turning smooth shade back on.
Figure 15: Using the smooth tool in mesh to smother the product.
Figure 16: Creating depth to the sides of the pod by extruding parts of the product.
Figure 17: Switching the wireframe on to see the progress and ensuring I am satisfied with the design thus far.
Figure 18: Viewing how the model looks after completing the design.
Figure 19: Viewing from a different angle.

Final Product

Figure 20 illustrates the outcome of the modelling phase, capturing the final desired look. With this achievement, I can now proceed to the next crucial step: UV unwrapping. This process will enable me to breathe life into the final product, enhancing its visual appeal and adding essential details.

Front and rear view
Left and right view
Bottom view
Figure 20: I have prepared three images that showcase different perspectives of the completed model in Maya, prior to the application of textures and materials. These images offer a comprehensive view of the model from various angles.

Rejected Design

When I first embarked on the modelling journey, I opted for a different design reference. However, I soon realised that this particular reference was too challenging and advanced, especially considering it was my first time using Maya. Consequently, I encountered several difficulties along the way. Presented below are a few screenshots showcasing the short-lived process of the rejected design.

Figure 21: I have compiled six images displaying a previous design idea that was ultimately rejected. These images provide a visual representation of the concept that was explored. The final image showcases a component that I had created, which was intended to be incorporated into the overall design at a later stage.

References

  • Maya Learning Channel.2018. Intro to Maya: Lesson 3 / 10 – 3D Modeling your first model. [Online]. Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REUu3R0LgOM&t=547s [Accessed 02 May 2023].
  • JL Mussi. 2019. Maya Hard Surface Modeling: Spherical Shapes. [Online]. Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ioxnMq-9io&t=259s [Accessed 02 May 2023].

You may like

Maya Animation and Lighting

13 May, 2023

Maya Texturing and Concept Rendering 

13 May, 2023