Hello SC4Devotion!
I have a BAT thread open on Simtropolis, and figured I should open one here at SC4Devotion, so I could get some more feedback from another experience community! ;D
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My Projects
Completed:
GLR to Subway Transfer Station (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/23278-glr-to-subway-transfer-station/) ---- (February 5, 2010)
GLR/Subway Transit Hub (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/23819-glr-subway-transit-hub/) ---- (May 8th, 2010)
GLR to Bus Transfer Station (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/24847-glr-to-bus-transfer-station/) ---- (September 11th, 2010)
Container Yard Freight Station (Fixed) (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/25368-container-yard-freight-station-fixed/) ---- (November 26, 2010)
STR Freight Station (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/25833-str-freight-station/) ---- (February 5th, 2011)
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I am working on Greenbelt Metrorail Station right now. It's part of the DC Metro and is located right outside of Washington, DC.
I have some real life shots for you so you can get the basic idea first...
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdesmond.yfrog.com%2FHimg401%2Fscaled.php%3Ftn%3D0%26amp%3Bserver%3D401%26amp%3Bfilename%3D35111120340280.jpg%26amp%3Bxsize%3D640%26amp%3Bysize%3D640&hash=69109d3b1e1fd285212a3e36760152ebce581841)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdesmond.yfrog.com%2FHimg176%2Fscaled.php%3Ftn%3D0%26amp%3Bserver%3D176%26amp%3Bfilename%3D26greenbeltstation.jpg%26amp%3Bxsize%3D640%26amp%3Bysize%3D640&hash=c8d3dbc311959dadbef1896a3a1e9ef75e870aa2)
And now I have a preview render of the station in its current state, still a good bit of work to do on the platform before I move props. Because the image is larger than 800x600 by a bit, here's a linkie.
Edit: This station will be a split GLR station, the platform will be between the split GLR track.
http://a.imageshack.us/img831/5930/greenbeltaug2.jpg (http://a.imageshack.us/img831/5930/greenbeltaug2.jpg)
Thanks,
DC
hi,
i'm meister1235 and i'm a Modder and Batter in the Team.
you can find my Batting an Modding thread at Simtropolis linky (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/messageview.cfm?catid=37&threadid=114176&enterthread=y)
Sounds very promising. I am looking forward to some great transit BATs from you. :)
Replies@ Meister1235: Thanks for stopping by and introducing yourself!
@ RickD: Thanks, I hope I can make many BATs here! :satisfied:
An update for everyone....
I am basically done with the basic model (I might make the wing texture a bit darker).
Sorry, the pic is a bit big....
http://a.imageshack.us/img228/4500/greenbeltaug6.png (http://a.imageshack.us/img228/4500/greenbeltaug6.png)
But other than that it's time for props!
On the subject of props, I am going to make them myself, and they are going to be authentic. My first one is a pole with the station name and line color on it, seen at every Metro station.
Here is an example of a sign like I am making now. The only difference is on the actual station platform, the sign says just "Greenbelt", dropping the "Station".
I have made my own textures, and tried various fonts on the sign pole. I was debating whether to have the type smaller (which is more authentic), or make the type readable in game. I have a couple pics for you showing my options.
I'd like to add that all these choices were rendered in "HD" in BAT.
Here is the one with the large, semi-readable font.
Click here (Large pic) (http://a.imageshack.us/img823/8743/newportnewsmay110012809.png)
And the two I have circled are the best examples of the smaller font, my other option.
Click here (Large pic) (http://a.imageshack.us/img248/7412/newportnewsapr160012809.png)
Any comments/opinions/critique is welcome!
-DC
Well, that station came to somewhat of a halt when I got some glitchy LODs...let me show you the deal....
I created my own LOD, here (and copied it twice to get three total copies before I rendered):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fa.imageshack.us%2Fimg834%2F4610%2Flodding.jpg&hash=0f1c160dd78e5f2cb0a8f5c09bcb67ac4c090815)
Now, the LOD is underground, but it also covering the whole station....
When I went to add props in the LE, they glitched up, like this:
When you rotate the viewport in LE, the props are clearly "floating" in mid air....because to get it to look like it was above the platform in the default view, I had to raise it.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fa.imageshack.us%2Fimg251%2F6214%2Fleissue.jpg&hash=c4e7df2e693a20091b0409c794bcf22a7b318255)
I then tried making the LOD a little more than .2 meters above the ground, because I heard that it had to be this high. The LOD was the same at the first, except the bottom was halfway up the platform (even though it still covered it). Sorry, I don't have a pic of this LOD setup.
This time, when I rendered, it looked fine, I was able to place props in LE with no problem. But when I opened up SC4 and plopped it, I got a major glitch in the platform:
The platform should be the texture that you see under the "cover" of the station (the correct texture shade is also seen in the Lot Editor pic above); as you see it is much darker below than it should be.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fa.imageshack.us%2Fimg822%2F9112%2Fnewcityfeb9001281566924.jpg&hash=5dc137a4f84f4b99e1dcd4a4420eedce14d91eb9)
I've tried just about everything I can think of, anything you see that I'm doing wrong?
DC :satisfied:
Hello DCMetro
I'm not exactly sure I have a clear understanding ... but I'll try to answer.
With respect to glitchy renders. Please read a response I made in this thread about glitches. Although, I don't expect this will solve the problem you've stated. It's good information nevertheless.
http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=11652.msg343195#msg343195 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=11652.msg343195#msg343195)
i think the answer you're looking for is ... I did a tutorial in my bat thread about foundations. Basically, what I say about complex LODs for foundations also applies to other complex LODs too. I think I'd break your rail station apart into three main sections. The body in the middle along with the pitched roof, the overhangs, and the platform. Creating LOD3's for each element. Then attach them using the edit mesh function. This will give you an extremely tight LOD.
http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=536.msg294366#msg294366 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=536.msg294366#msg294366)
Also - the building looks a smidgen squat. An in game SIM is 4 meters high. The overhangs are barley 3.5 meters high. I think you need to make the station a bit taller. A good rule of thumb is to make commercial building floors 5 meters high. Usually the ground floors are 7 to 10 meters depending on the style of building e.g. European buildings can have shorter ground floors. The other thing is to model commercial and industrials with the idea that you'll be placing some Sim People on the lot near doorways. In this case, on the platform waiting for the next metro-rail. Keeping that in mind will help you with vertical scale.
Good Luck.
-Jim
Thanks so much for the advice, it sounds good, and I will definitely try it next render! :thumbsup:
But for now, I have a quick question; can you add a texture to an editable mesh?
DC
Quote from: DCMetro2834 on September 07, 2010, 07:37:58 PM
Thanks so much for the advice, it sounds good, and I will definitely try it next render! :thumbsup:
But for now, I have a quick question; can you add a texture to an editable mesh?
DC
Yes but it sometimes requires a bit work getting the UV mapping the way one wants it. Depends on how complex the mesh is I think. But I'm curious - everything I see for your building can be done using splines which are easier to texture. I only convert to editable polys when I need more complex shapes.
Quote from: jmyers2043 on September 08, 2010, 06:13:35 AM
Yes but it sometimes requires a bit work getting the UV mapping the way one wants it. Depends on how complex the mesh is I think. But I'm curious - everything I see for your building can be done using splines which are easier to texture. I only convert to editable polys when I need more complex shapes.
Thanks for the reply!
Well, with the pictures you have seen, there is need for a mesh. I am now using a mesh because I made the platform curve to fit in better with the track. Let me show you my problem with this texture being added to an editable mesh.....
I made the mesh (platform) in a different file and merged it with the rest of my station....
http://a.imageshack.us/img101/6685/pretexture.jpg (http://a.imageshack.us/img101/6685/pretexture.jpg)
After I merged all of them, it looked like this in perspective view.....
Then I added my texture in using the Material Editor and Navigator (the way I always do it and it's worked before). When I added my texture....I got this:
http://a.imageshack.us/img237/7487/posttexture.jpg (http://a.imageshack.us/img237/7487/posttexture.jpg)
Then, I went to do a preview render, just to check how it looked. This is what I saw; the texture I wanted was there (not aligned right, but I didn't take the time to) except for the corner of the platform, which is pointed out by the arrow in the picture below.
http://a.imageshack.us/img237/7487/posttexture.jpg (http://a.imageshack.us/img237/7487/posttexture.jpg)
Does anyone know what could be causing this?
Thanks,
DC
Oh ya! I've seen that before many a time and I now see the conversation unfolding. You first asked if you could texture a mesh. I said yes but didn't say anything about mapping. Didn't think about it at the time. Hence your second question.
Every mesh object in your bat has to have a UV map applied. No map? No texture. Those are the rules $%#Ninj2
Quote from: jmyers2043 on September 08, 2010, 02:23:44 PM
Oh ya! I've seen that before many a time and I now see the conversation unfolding. You first asked if you could texture a mesh. I said yes but didn't say anything about mapping. Didn't think about it at the time. Hence your second question.
Every mesh object in your bat has to have a UV map applied. No map? No texture. Those are the rules $%#Ninj2
Ah, I see, thanks, success!! Guess I should have been more clear the first time... :D
Thanks,
DC
Sorry for the double post...but I thought I should finally show you guys an updated pic of the BAT. ;)
The width of the pic is 841 pixels....so I'll link of to it....
http://a.imageshack.us/img148/1558/greenbeltsept9.jpg (http://a.imageshack.us/img148/1558/greenbeltsept9.jpg)
Feel free to post any comments, concerns, or critique!
DC
what a good idea to continue the development of tram station.
I have some personnal recommandations :
- the roof texture is not excellent it's seems to be not scaled
- did you try if all trams go under the station (I think some models are too high with pantograph)
- absence of details (I don't know exactly the way to mod it so if you can put easily details)
a line to prevent accident with colors or small nails (after there are some props you can put but it's not on the BAT so I wait ...)
- the lights are repetitive and a little bit strange (but it's small details)
anyway good job from this team and wait surely for more stations :)
nice , are you going to raise the platform just a tad? Do you take requests for Rail vehicles ? The reason i'm asking is i can't recreate a part of my state without realistic matching trains and i can't find anyone to do them.... ()sad()
@ Girafe: I am always tweaking that....I will work on it. ;)
The trains do go under I think....but above jmeyers said that there wasn't enough room, so I raised it. :P
I know someone who can mod it, so I am ok there....but what do you mean a line to prevent accident?
In what ways are the light strange, and do you have any ways for how I could improve them? I am a little bit of a newbie when it comes to night lights.
Thanks for all your comments!
@ Nexis4Jersey: I wasn't planning on raising the platform....but it will sit on a GLR texture.
And, I don't really take requests for automata modding..although I do mod a little. What trains in specific were you looking for?
Thanks for your comment as well.
DC :satisfied:
DC metro already exist. :thumbsup:
Quote from: Une_ame on September 10, 2010, 04:28:53 AM
DC metro already exist. :thumbsup:
Oh yes, they do! I got confused when I saw nexis4jersey's username. :P
I have used this automata many times, it is here: http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=3346 (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=3346)
DC
Hey DC
I don't know how open you are to some texture critique. Also don't know what sort of paint program you have. Don't know how long you've been batting. But I'll go ahead and give you a texturing tip at the risk that I may be telling you something that you already know.
For every hour I spend in gmax. I often spend two in a paint program. Many experienced people use Photoshop. It's has a bit of a price tag. I use Paint Shop Pro. There are some free paint programs. Gimp I understand is free and I think that's what Tag_One uses. You can do some simple things with Gimp. Such as some layering. Layering is probably the most useful tool for altering or enhancing textures. I never use a texture as is. I always put gradients on the simplest of textures. It is seldom that you'll find a texture that works 'perfect' on a bat. . .
Someone above made a comment about the roof texture. So I started to think about what I'd do to add some interest. ??? I'm thinking that there would be some cuts in the cement to allow for expansion and contraction during the summer and winter months. So I'll start there.
I collect pictures and I've got a couple hopeful ones here. I'll use the narrow one along the front face of the overhang. I'll use the one with cuts on the roof.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fileden.com%2Ffiles%2F2007%2F7%2F4%2F1237795%2FTexture%252001.jpg&hash=01b8cb33ed2dfde4535d4f4d18c3474ff855bfb8)
My plan is to have a smuge along the roof. Try to make it look like acid rain has caused some streaks. To accomplish that I'll copy my narrow picture and overlay it on top of my larger image. Not very convincing if you ask me.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fileden.com%2Ffiles%2F2007%2F7%2F4%2F1237795%2FTexture%252002.jpg&hash=5d9f4e2215690ec721a9e0d88e2516009801a2bc)
The next step? I'll give the narrow texture a stretch and move it so the dark smudge will run along the top edge of the roof. I don't know if you can read the layers tool bar along the right hand side of the picture. I chose the darken function and set the opacity to 80% and got the below affect.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fileden.com%2Ffiles%2F2007%2F7%2F4%2F1237795%2FTexture%252003.jpg&hash=71ffcf93411d5baa91f8c9d83bc5a29970dd6eb4)
Time to put the texture on my my overhang and do a test render. Maybe you like it. Maybe not. Maybe your goal is smooth clean cement. Even at that I think I'd try to do something to make it interesting/pop/look less flat. It's not really an exact science. More like "I know what I like and will keep at it until I'm happy" After looking I'll decide to keep it - Maybe find some cement with some green mold adding color to the overlay to make it less gray - Or find different streaks. Hope you get the idea.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fileden.com%2Ffiles%2F2007%2F7%2F4%2F1237795%2FTexture%252004.jpg&hash=743acf9cb345353638371da46337259ea668b60f)
Good Luck.
- Jim
@ jmeyers2043: Wow...I knew about editing textures in Paint programs...but never like you did....
I have GIMP right now...and will be installing a family copy of Photoshop (if you can install it on more than one cpu, which I think you can).
Your photoshopping was darn pretty good...that should help me.... :thumbsup:
I tend to get most of my textures from CG textures, although I saw a list in the forums here; I should try some of those other sites. I recall that none of the textures I had were as good as your starting texture... :P
Thanks a lot for the advice...the roof texture does look out of place. Also, smooth clean-like cement in used in DC Metro stations, so that is essentially my goal as well.
Finally, I really appreciate you and all the other members putting so much time into this thread, it's really helped me. :)
DC
Quote from: DCMetro2834 on September 06, 2010, 05:47:15 PM
Well, that station came to somewhat of a halt when I got some glitchy LODs...let me show you the deal....
I created my own LOD, here (and copied it twice to get three total copies before I rendered):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fa.imageshack.us%2Fimg834%2F4610%2Flodding.jpg&hash=0f1c160dd78e5f2cb0a8f5c09bcb67ac4c090815)
Now, the LOD is underground, but it also covering the whole station....
When I went to add props in the LE, they glitched up, like this:
When you rotate the viewport in LE, the props are clearly "floating" in mid air....because to get it to look like it was above the platform in the default view, I had to raise it.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fa.imageshack.us%2Fimg251%2F6214%2Fleissue.jpg&hash=c4e7df2e693a20091b0409c794bcf22a7b318255)
I then tried making the LOD a little more than .2 meters above the ground, because I heard that it had to be this high. The LOD was the same at the first, except the bottom was halfway up the platform (even though it still covered it). Sorry, I don't have a pic of this LOD setup.
This time, when I rendered, it looked fine, I was able to place props in LE with no problem. But when I opened up SC4 and plopped it, I got a major glitch in the platform:
The platform should be the texture that you see under the "cover" of the station (the correct texture shade is also seen in the Lot Editor pic above); as you see it is much darker below than it should be.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fa.imageshack.us%2Fimg822%2F9112%2Fnewcityfeb9001281566924.jpg&hash=5dc137a4f84f4b99e1dcd4a4420eedce14d91eb9)
I've tried just about everything I can think of, anything you see that I'm doing wrong?
DC :satisfied:
Could you tell me what exactly are you trying to accomplish there?
What you have now is a result of your LODs top plane being too low. For game everything that is at 0.2m and lower is considered to be at ground level (or below). So your platform is covered with it's own shadow. You can make a little experiment to prove it - turn shadows off and you'll see that the "glitch" will be gone.
Oh, I see....I don't exactly know why that didn't make sense the first time I tried it...
Well, anyway, thanks a bunch for posting...I'll try raising a bit and see what happens..
DC
Ok, I'm back after a while.....
I fixed the issue with the "shadow" glitch on the platform, but now I have another issue.....one end of the platform is raised a little bit.
The platform thickness is .25, so not sure why it is happening.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F4930%2Fnewcityjul2405128736726.png&hash=5d3d21d9ce32a76c7b8d320d6e185dbe7699f7db)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg822.imageshack.us%2Fimg822%2F7121%2Fnewcityjul2305128736725.png&hash=3c1e9a06a7db61dfbf701e9fb20fbaa51f7751fe)
Any insight would be greatly appreciated....
DC
So, after a month-long break from BAT, I got a chance to fire up BAT this morning and experiment with some ideas.
I integrated the props into my BAT as Jason recommended, and so far, everything looks good. I am going to make a low-quality render soon to make sure that the it looks okay in game.
Changes I've made since my last update:
I altered the roof (wing) texture a bit....and I dimmed the lights and merged the props into the model.
Future plans:
I will adjust the night lights more to see if I can't balance them out a little bit, and make the props' lights brighter.
Sorry for the links, but the images are very oversized....
An HD Day Render
http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/7578/greenbeltdaynov11.jpg (http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/7578/greenbeltdaynov11.jpg)
And an HD Night Render
http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/4751/greenbeltnightnov11.jpg (http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/4751/greenbeltnightnov11.jpg)
Thanks for viewing and commenting!!
DC
Even though this is kinda a one-man thread, I have some new work to present to everyone while I mess around with the Greenbelt LOD.
It is "Aquarium MBTA Station" in Boston, Massachusetts. It's near downtown and Boston's aquarium.
My BAT is loosely based on this image I took when I was in Boston last year.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg818.imageshack.us%2Fimg818%2F3771%2Fdsc0267y.jpg&hash=645098551182eabe038bec89124f48804f40d253)
This is my version so far....
http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/7508/aquarimstation112810.png (http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/7508/aquarimstation112810.png)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg716.imageshack.us%2Fimg716%2F7508%2Faquarimstation112810.png&hash=675175e83ad49655013c4f20c933fb0a4d0486cd)
A lot of the fine details are yet to be added, but this is a basic start.
Any critique or comments are welcome.
-DC
No remarks on the aquarium yet but I keep on looking the developments of your DC Metrorail station :thumbsup: and I'm wondering if you plan to release it soon ?
Quote from: Une_ame on November 30, 2010, 06:20:06 AM
No remarks on the aquarium yet but I keep on looking the developments of your DC Metrorail station :thumbsup: and I'm wondering if you plan to release it soon ?
Well, it really all depends on when I figure out the LOD....really the only time consuming thing left is to fix the LOD so the station shows up correctly.
So, I can't give a definite time, but at the earlier it will be sometime in mid-December, and that's if I can fix this LOD quickly.
DC
Well, I've gotten a little caught up in RL lately, but managed to BAT a bit in the last week or so.
I decided to render the platform as a prop, and model the light poles, signs, etc. into the platform. The mainframe of the station will serve as the "building" in this lot.
On the topic of roof textures....I decided to look into that in some free time today, here's the result...
I was bearing in mind that it will appear lighter in game, and against the light platform, which will also contrast to that.
Full size image: http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/greenbelt_dec25_2.jpg (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/greenbelt_dec25_2.jpg)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fgreenbelt_dec25_2.jpg&hash=b5861f6ba17492fef1eddc7a5e0235c0f127a2fd)
Happy holidays! :satisfied:
DC
Looks great, I would love to learn how to modd things like that.
Yep, roof textures are definitly OK ! :thumbsup:
*Dusts off thread*
Thanks you guys for the compliments!
Exams and RL have kept me pretty busy for awhile, but I managed to find time for BAT amid all the madness. :)
Well, I've been looking over some various advice from the ST BAT thread, and it's led me to put together some pics for you.
What I've done:
I've added a concrete base to the platform, so the sides don't look as out of place.
I put in some new nightlights for the platform.
What I'm going to do
I'm going to add some realistic props to the platform (benches, ticket kiosks).
I'm am going to go back to the shelter and add some nightlights to it.
Now, I have the pics! (Click for full resolution)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fgreenbelt_2.4.11.jpg&hash=bf7d3d2e3037a080c0aeb3a8c836209bd1f20b3a) (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/greenbelt_2.4.11.jpg)
When I first made them, I thought the nightlights made the poles look a little too orange, but I wanted to see what you guys had to say.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fgb_night_2.4.jpg&hash=a6009f7d2b2cc84a8de18af16ccaef69acf77854) (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/gb_night_2.4.jpg)
DC
Right now, those nightlights are perfect ? :thumbsup:
I do think they do look just a *smidgin* bright. Otherwise, the platform looks great. In particular those platform markings look fantastic.
Replies
Une_ame: Thanks a lot!
Cammo2003: Thanks, I did turn the nightlights down a bit. ;) I will show another nightlight pic soon.
Well, I decided to dim the nightlights a bit, plus I added a ticket kiosk in there. The ticket kiosks look so fat because I put them back to back, so they would be on both sides. I removed one of the light poles, so I could fit the 48-meter-long shelter in the middle.
Besides any minor changes, the platform is basically complete. If anything jumps out to you as being odd, please tell me now.
Here's the progress pic! (Click for full resolution)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fgb_platform_2_8_11.jpg&hash=2c73f3961956738f6390ecdfae4b6d0815204a6e) (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/gb_platform_2_8_11.jpg)
Nice Platform, but Is it real that those lights are so fat at the end. And matbe you should add a bit benches and some peoples. Take a look at this picture you see that it's very busy. But I like your textures DC
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.spoorpunt.nl%2Fupload%2Fssa53179_696_jpg&hash=7debaeca8380ab17998e44af7d13ad3c30c2477b)
I used to take the DC Metrorail lines for something like 2 years and as far as I remember, it's far less crowded than what I've seen in Paris. :satisfied:
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Peter007: Thanks a lot for reply, first off. ;D I was originally going to put benches out on the platform, but decided against it because there was no more room. Then I contemplated putting the benches under the shelter; but then, I think you would only be able to see part of them, so it would look a little odd.
In the matter of lights, I am going to redo the models so they are smaller and fit in better. ;)
As for people, I will definitely put some people-props on in Lot Editor when I load the station in it.
Une_ame: Yes, when I was on the DC Metro, the only fairly busy time was rush hour, and even then, there wasn't a whole lot of people. :P
My overall question for you all is: Do you think I should try put some benches under the platform even though it might look odd?
Any feedback here is much appreciated!
DC
Trying doesn't cost anything so I would say try it.
Why not an EL-Rail DC Metro station , which would look more realistic....
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Thanks for your comments!
Peter007: Ok, I also have another idea I am trying that I will show you. ;)
Nexis 4 Jersey: It's interesting that you bring that up. The actual Greenbelt Metrorail Station is similar to an EL Rail Station. But, it is more like the viaduct stations that we have for heavy rail in SC4. When the train leaves the station, it doesn't go onto an elevated rail; to the train, it is still ground, it just has a higher elevation, as you can see below...
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm2.static.flickr.com%2F1405%2F616046892_06a82dcbb5.jpg&hash=c92d683c249997d8f33b665907417461683947f7)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm3.static.flickr.com%2F2777%2F4097501032_1cd98242c0.jpg&hash=9d4c6dc1ed9998090177c4ebbfaab8b242ab6ce6)
At the beginning of the station, I contemplated whether to make it EL rail or not, but I decided against it because unless it was an EL rail viaduct, it would look out of place. Maybe not the best reasoning, but if I were to make an EL rail station as well, it wouldn't be too challenging; as I already have the the uppermost part.
Eventually, I will probably end up making an EL rail version...
But, that's the whole story behind it...
I should have some pics of my new idea and the benches later on today...
DC
Pardon the double post but.....
Well, 3 days and I have some new major changes to Greenbelt. I added some escalators in there, since crossing the tracks would be a bit treacherous.
I just wanted to give you all something to look at my progress so far. As always, comments from the peanut gallery are welcome.
Full size image: http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/greenbelt_east_2_10_11.jpg (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/DC3479/Greenbelt/greenbelt_east_2_10_11.jpg)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fgreenbelt_east_2_10_11.jpg&hash=92ed70d2bdb4d629a9e1bb73f68ddd0cb2442dc3)
And a close up of an escalator with the walls (the other doesn't have them yet)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fnorth_view.jpg&hash=7ac2905c433a6573f3224ede7f8ff684ae618d3c)
Very nice escalators. Did you made them yourself?
This might become a really great mid platform station. &apls
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I really appreciate you guys' continued comments and critique here; it is a major help! :thumbsup:
Peter007: No, I downloaded them from scipio on the STEX. He lets people use them, as long as you credit them. With a couple modifications made by me, they fit in nicely with the rest of the station.
Simcitler: Thank you much! :)
I didn't do too much work this weekend; I've been pretty busy with a lot of stuff. Still, I may post an image later tonight if I get around to doing some BATting.
DC :satisfied:
Looks good, DC. Nice to see you here. I am clueless about Transit Modding, but it looks good.
-Alex
Thanks much, Exla! :)
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Well, RTMT BATting has kept me busy in the SC4 world; but just this weekend, I started working on my final version of the shelter. I was testing my nightlights and I ran into an issue:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fnightlight.jpg&hash=386248523a5ee528909ec6b60949dd776f2e2bb3)
The nightlights on the ride side never show up, regardless of what view you render it in. (South is on the top of the image, North is on the bottom)
This is the setup of my nightlights.... they are all equally spaced out and have the same settings (I copied and pasted them across the shelter).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Flight_setup.jpg&hash=1677405873f942c807f25d0a9d2ea346acab9dce)
I tried merging the Geometry and Lights into a new scene... but it didn't help the problem.
Anyone got any ideas? &mmm Any wisdom would be very greatly appreciated. ;D
-DC-
I didn't know DC metro stations had warning striping like that, must be new(rode the system on a high school field trip in 2001). I don't know if I like it aesthetically(it's fine from a technical standpoint), but its your call since I know you are going for realism. Personally, I'd do stop with just the white pavement and lights, since that's how it looked for +30 years anyways.
Also, why not an EL station? Doing some research here, Eisenhower on the Yellow is such a station, though you are right that nearly all other above ground stations are on embankments not bridges. It's also got side platforms too, AFAIK. I mean, it doesn't have to be prototypical does it? If you wanted to recyle the existing cover you are batting, then do kind of fictionalized version of Huntington station(without the tail tracks going into a tunnel of course) because its got that sort of roof.
Thanks for your reply, I really appreciate it!! ;D
Well, the warning strip is actually dark red and bumpy on the real DC Metro. Also, the color of the platform is a dark red brick color. So I've basically changed the colors, but kept the same design. I've been to Washington 2 years ago for a middle school trip, and it does look the way it originally does. ;D I just couldn't come up with red textures that looked good together. So, the project basically became "loosely based upon" Greenbelt Metro Station.
I could turn Greenbelt into an EL Rail station if that's the popular demand; it honestly wouldn't be that hard, and would probably look more realistic if the escalators were actually going somewhere. ::)
I could use the platform as the top part on the EL Rail tracks, and the escalators could go down to the area of Greenbelt Station that looks like this:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fe%2Fe9%2FWashington_DC_metro_station_greenbelt.jpg&hash=ec430e04ef904a0cda48f88537f291e3f69c0d1b)
Was that the idea you had? Or did I not understand what you were saying... I had to read it twice. :P
To be honest, Eisenhower Station was going to be my next big project (I thought Greenbelt wasn't going to take a whole year :P ). I really like the way it's set up, and it would make a fantastic station to BAT. ;D
Again, thanks for your reply. ;D (You can tell I get excited when someone posts in my BAT thread :P ).
-DC-
I love all the details. I am looking forward to seeing the seeing the next pictures.
nice to see you back into action
Great prgress.
Nice but slowly.
I hope you will gte a nice time at the UNSW
&apls
-Ernst
Jack Bauer: Thanks! :D
Harishna: Glad to be back in action; thank you! :)
Peter007: Thanks for the comment, and I hope to be updating more regularly soon. :)
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After some posts in the forums over at ST, I did manage to solve my nightlight problem.
They now look like this:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fnightlights2.jpg&hash=f35ffe5b49abf8d18f0d2a7b53036b48bea6b978)
A couple weeks ago I render an in-game model, and the nightlights don't shine down on the ground. I don't have a platform with it... so is there some setting I can change?
They're not much use if they don't shine down. :P
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FGreenbelt%2Fnonightlights.jpg&hash=adceceb1e5276c2eae98cbd1a4f457147ffc7b8b)
Any insight on last picture, and any critique to the first one would be greatly appreciated! :)
DC
You need some surfaces to reflect the light. Otherwise it won't be visible.
Quote from: cogeo on May 28, 2011, 02:31:02 PM
You need some surfaces to reflect the light. Otherwise it won't be visible.
Thanks Cogeo!
I think I will render my platform for Greenbelt, and use that. I think the lights will shine down on that, since the platform is rendered as a prop.
-DC-
I recently was able to get my hands on 3dsMax Design 2012, and have been experimenting with that a bit.
Here's a new subway station currently in the works; it's modeled after a DC Metro subway station :) (Escalators courtesy of Scipio). Modeling's not completely finished, but it's getting there. :P I could either add a staircase or a third escalator in the middle. Regardless of what I add, I will equal out the distances between the each escalator/staircase and the wall, so it will look neater.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FMyBATs%2Fdupont_august8.png&hash=e5e4d90f901d28d0fc0cb4c25be2c6ccc9f54ee6)
&hlp
Looks more like Pentagon City Metro station IMHO but it actually makes me go back 6-7 yrs in the past. Dupont Circle was my station before jumping in the ligne 6H bus to Georgetown !!!!!!
Anyway, a staircase is an absolute need !!! :thumbsup:
Thanks Une_ame! ;D The subway stations have the same general design, so I guess it could many different ways. :P And I will add a staircase. ;)
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I recently released Greenbelt Metrorail on he STEX. :)
Come 'n' get it! (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/26764-greenbelt-metrorail-station/) :P
I'll be focusing on my DC Metro subway station next!
Actually, Dupont Circle access is a huge circular hole in the ground with 4 escalators (AFAIR) + a double staircase and no roof. :thumbsup:
Quote from: Une_ame on September 23, 2011, 05:45:32 AM
Actually, Dupont Circle access is a huge circular hole in the ground with 4 escalators (AFAIR) + a double staircase and no roof. :thumbsup:
Oh, yes, I know where you're talking about. :) That is the main entrance, but the one I am designing is this one: :P
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FDC3479%2FMyBATs%2Fdupomt.jpg&hash=3acfbc249bbcf0a73cdaf4164a313a3d9e752a17)
But I might just rename it Pentagon City Metrorail Station, since it is more like that one. :P
This is Pentagon City: :)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.armytimes.com%2Fxml%2Fnews%2F2010%2F10%2Fap-military-subway-bomb-plotter-eyed-troops-102710%2F102710ap_pentagon_city_metro_800.JPG&hash=7c220f7c5bd7140d0a3f6c506c1eb3e3cdee0ae7)
AArff, DC, sweet memories :-[. I use to get out through this small exit on New Hampshire Av. (Dupont Circle) in the morning and through the exact exit you just show at the Pentagon City station in the evening befor waiting for my condo shuttle to bring me back at home......
I feel 6yrs younger. :'(
Keep going.