Recently I stumbled over some older LEGO scenes (.MPD Files) which I imported into Blender 2.80 to export them again as a FBX-File and load it finally into my 3DsMax.
It's a little bit tricky, but possible to import MPD-Files into Blender 2.80. From Blender you are capable to export the scene as OBJ, FBX or whatever file format you desire.
I have now converted quite a few Lego scenes and they're are ready to go, but I never had the idea to give them a try in Terragen.
The overall idea is imo really great and so I would like to share my first TG Lego experience with you.
Here is a first Lego test rendering to show that it is possible to render Lego scenes in TG.
If you're interested please read on, I explain the process more fully down below to show you how you also can also do it!
The conversion is a littlle bit tricky but it can me managed.
TG standard scene with imported LEGO File
Close-up
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Now I will explain more fully how I did it in detail.
First you need Blender 2.80 or 2.81. Only Blender 2.8 or Blender 2.81 because the script to convert LEGO Files into Blender works only with these 2 versions.
The import script for blender can be downloaded here.The description how you have to install it into blender is also described at this site. Please read carfully to do it correctly!
https://github.com/TobyLobster/ImportLDrawIf you need help, consult YouTube. There are some videos out there which can help you. E.g.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKYwIjN7lXITo get your scene in form of solid mesh objects, the script needs a part library to create your final meshes like the Lego bricks and other parts.
To get this parts library you need to download and to install a software called "LDraw" or simply the parts library alone (not tested).
After installation the path to this Lego parts library must be defined inside the Blender Script "importldraw". You'll find it under its options.
If you did everything correctly, then Blender will be able to create solid meshes out of all the Lego parts from this Library.
LDraw / Lego CAD software package.
https://www.ldraw.org/The latest parts library can be downloaded here
https://www.ldraw.org/parts/latest-parts.htmlTo find out the original dimensions of a Lego scene you can use MLCad. This is a CAD software specially designed for Lego Files.
You need the dimensions if you will correctly scale the Lego scene in another 3D software package like blender, lightwave or 3dsmax.
Click "Extras-Reporte-Abmessungen" and MLCAD will show you the exact dimensions of the scene (See screnshot below) in a small window.
TIP
I always save a Screenshot and the dimension within the file name, then move the file as an INFO-File into my project folder for further scaling.
Lego scene in MLCad with it's dimensions
Lego scene imported into Blender 2.80
If you correctly installed the script, you will be able to import the Lego MPD File into Blender 2.80 or 2.81.
Same Lego scene in 3DsMax 2009.
From inside Blender I exported the scene as an FBX file, re-imported it into 3D Studiomax and scaled it correctly according to its dimensions.
I exported the OBJ File for the TG Test with 3DsMax, but you can export it also from Blender.
Next is to find a good resource for LEGO Files. Here is a good start
http://omr.ldraw.org/http://omr.ldraw.org/files?dt=listhttps://www.eurobricks.com/forum/index.php?/forums/topic/48285-key-topic-official-lego-sets-made-in-ldraw/&tab=comments#comment-849693
3DsMax Rendering
LEGO 9396 Helicopter
Advanced Light Study
LEGO 8664 Front End Loader
STORMLORD
