3D Max

PlantCatalog from E-on Software, the Ideal Tool to Simulate Plants in 3D

Overview of PlantCatalog

PlantCatalog emerges as an innovative subscription-based library that offers a diverse selection of procedural 3D plant models. Created by e-on software, this resource is designed specifically for professionals in visual effects, architectural visualization, and real-time applications, providing a sophisticated solution for those seeking realistic vegetation models.

Features of PlantCatalog

This comprehensive library includes a collection of 60 different plant species, representing various types of vegetation found in multiple geographic regions. The initial offering comprises a mix of deciduous trees, coniferous species, grasses, and various herbaceous plants, with plans to expand this selection on a quarterly basis.

Specialized Tools and Export Options

One of the standout features of PlantCatalog is the PlantCatalog Exporter, a dedicated tool that enables users to customize their selected plants before exporting them in several standard 3D file formats, such as OBJ, FBX, Alembic, and more. Additionally, this tool allows for fine-tuning of plant characteristics, including age, health, and seasonal variations.

The software supports multiple export presets tailored for compatibility with popular applications, including notable 3D design software like 3ds Max and Maya. Users can seamlessly import content into their projects, as the export process automatically adapts materials to suit the native formats of these applications.

Quality and Performance

To cater to a variety of project requirements, PlantCatalog provides species available in two poly counts—high definition (HD) and low definition (LD)—ensuring that users can select the ideal resolution for offline rendering. Moreover, a smaller selection includes lower poly models specifically optimized for real-time engines, aligning with the trends in gaming and interactive media.

Customization and Control

Advanced customization options allow users to adjust individual parameters that influence the appearance of each plant, including shape and structure. Furthermore, global settings enable modifications to key factors such as plant age, health status, and seasonal attributes. Users can also manipulate mesh resolution and wind effects, adding another layer of realism to animations.

Future Expansions

e-on software has indicated that they plan to continually enrich PlantCatalog’s offerings. Future updates will not only introduce additional plant species but may also encompass new asset types, such as fungi and imaginative vegetation, broadening the scope of creativity available to users.

FAQs

1. What types of plants are included in the PlantCatalog library?
The library currently features 60 species, including deciduous trees, coniferous types, grasses, and various herbaceous plants from around the globe, with plans for additional species to be added every quarter.

2. Which applications are compatible with the PlantCatalog export formats?
PlantCatalog supports a range of export formats like OBJ, FBX, Alembic, 3DS, C4D, and LWO, ensuring compatibility with various 3D applications and game engines, including Unity and Unreal Engine 4.

3. Can users customize the plants before exporting them?
Yes, users can utilize the PlantCatalog Exporter to customize various parameters of the plants, such as age, health, seasonality, and mesh resolution before exporting them for use in their projects.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.