Pattern Engine For 3ds Max

Pattern Engine is a scripted tool for 3ds Max that can generate and edit a variety of 3D geometry types—such as parametric patterns, 3D tiles, partitions, shelves, wall art, upholstery, and more—much faster and more easily than other approaches.

Core Features

• User-Friendly Interface: An easy-to-use, well-organized interface.
• Flexible Pattern Adaptation: Pattern objects can be generated and adapted to any 2D flat, closed shape.
• Multiple Array Modes: Choose from Grid, Radial, or Random array modes.
• Extensive Shape Library: Over 40 primitive shapes to use as pattern items.
• Three Distribution Modes: Distribute items by Weight, Random, or Expression.
• X and Y Expressions: Control the percentage of each item along the X and Y axes.
• Per-Item Parameters: Adjust depth, angle, scale, slope, visibility, and more to fine-tune your designs.
• Concave Mode: Generate hollow (concave) items and mix them with regular (convex) items.
• Outline Mode: Create outlined or framed items for a unique look.
• Effects: One of the tool’s most powerful features. Map any eligible value across the pattern with four effect types: Gradient, Random, Expression, and Shape. You can also blend effects using various blending modes for more control.
• Bumpy Convex: Apply a “pillow” effect to convex items—useful for generating upholstery forms.
• Array Borders: Offset the pattern from multiple sides with the option to display the border. Useful for framing patterns within a specific area.
• Local Alignment: Different options for per-item alignment within local space when an item’s scale is under 100%.
• Material ID Modes: Four modes are available—Fixed, Random, By Item, and Expression.
• Built-In Presets: Over 200 ready-to-use presets in different categories are included.
• Immediate Saving: Any changes to a pattern object are saved immediately, allowing you to revisit and edit them later.
• Preset Management: Save and load presets, or pick a preset from another object.

New In Version 1.4

• Custom Shapes: You can now use any closed, flat custom shape as a pattern item—unlocking endless possibilities for creating unique designs.

• Characters from Text: Instantly extract all characters from any text object and embed them as custom shapes, allowing you to control each character individually.

• Pick from Another Pattern: Easily create compound patterns by picking any previously created pattern and embedding it as a custom shape into your current design.

• Rows Y Offset: Offsets rows in the negative Y direction. This is especially useful for creating hexagonal grids, staggered layouts, and similar patterns.

• Lock X or Y Dimensions: A new toggle control lets you quickly lock or unlock item dimensions in the X or Y direction. Ideal for generating patterns with precise dimensions, such as tiles or flooring layouts.