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.
Airport Shuttle.jpg
TG standard scene with imported LEGO File
Airport Shuttle - Eingangsbereich.jpg
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/ImportLDraw
If you need help, consult YouTube. There are some videos out there which can help you. E.g.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKYwIjN7lXI
To 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.html
To 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 (Extras-Reporte-Abmesungen).jpg
Lego scene in MLCad with it's dimensions
Lego scene in Blender.jpg
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.
Lego scene in 3DsMax 2009.jpg
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=list
https://www.eurobricks.com/forum/index.php?/forums/topic/48285-key-topic-official-lego-sets-made-in-ldraw/&tab=comments#comment-849693
3DsMax - Lego Technic 9396 - Helicopter.jpg
3DsMax Rendering
LEGO 9396 Helicopter
Lego Technic 8464 (Front End Loader).jpg
Advanced Light Study
LEGO 8664 Front End Loader
STORMLORD
Very impressive work ! Thankyou for sharing. It seems people who love LEGO are a dedicated bunch !
Very cool renders and ideas!
Hey - why don't you do the next lego movie? ;)
I think it's funny they're still using the same object format since the 90s, even down to non-subdived cylinder arms I used to laugh at as a kid.
Already said this on FB, but I'd love to see a photorealistic world built around one of these scenes.
A first small scene made with some converted Lego models.
Sunset Dawn Attack.jpg
Sunset Dawn Attack
Hope you like it!
STORMLORD
Lego Star Wars 75054 - AT-AT.jpg
Lego Star Wars 75054 - AT-AT
http://omr.ldraw.org/files/1051
Star Wars 10212 - Imperial Shuttle.jpg
Lego Star Wars 10212 - Imperial Shuttle
http://omr.ldraw.org/files/350
That's Awesome! I loved Lego as a child, and I think it should be mandatory when bringing up kids. Very stimulating for your technical insight. I guess you 'played' it as well, Dirk!
Great render and worth to go on with these things!
Quote from: Stormlord on September 30, 2021, 02:30:42 PMA first small scene made with some converted Lego models.
Sunset Dawn Attack.jpg
Sunset Dawn Attack
Hope you like it!
STORMLORD
Lego Star Wars 75054 - AT-AT.jpg
Lego Star Wars 75054 - AT-AT
http://omr.ldraw.org/files/1051
Star Wars 10212 - Imperial Shuttle.jpg
Lego Star Wars 10212 - Imperial Shuttle
http://omr.ldraw.org/files/350 (http://omr.ldraw.org/files/350)page (https://casinority.com/au/wa/)
Really impressive work!