|
 Introduction |
| The
Chrome Shader |
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To start we need
to use either SM 3.0 or SMP 1.0 to create our shader. If your
using SMP, use the example to the right, using the exact values,
nodes, and links, then save it out. If using SM in PiXELS3D
create a Shape>Sphere then CMD-w to open the
ShaderManager. Follow the image on the right for values, nodes,
and links.
Edge Blend
node - This will help us keep the edges of our objects very
dark to emulate what chrome looks like against lights such as
the sun.
Raytracing
- This will add a reflective surface to the object. Notice instead
of using black we are using a greyish colour to help add ambience
and give a more 'glowing' style. Obviously we
can change it to a red colour to get a redish tint.
|
 |
| Cool
Chrome Effects |
|
Adding cool effects
to your chrome shader is easy. If you own photoshop create a
simple 256x256 image and using the gradient tool in Photoshop
create basic gradients, coloured or grayscale, like pictured
below and save out as PICT files to import into PiXELS3D.
Pictured
right are the two samples placed upon a sphere or cube. Below
is how to insert those images into our chrome shader.
|
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| Notable
Effects |
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You can add some
notable effects to your shader by using the Bump, Reflection
Value, and/or the Refraction Value Inputs. Try pluging in an
fBm,Turbulence, Granite node, etc. And, of course, experiment
hiding other objects around the main object, much like the droid
created by Jeff Heaslip, to add a more realistic feel.
|
| Index
of Refraction |
|
Now that we have
the image placed inside our chrome shader we utilize the Index
of Refraction to distort the image upon our object. Pictured
top-right is the IOR at a value of 1.00 on the Muffler object.
If we were
to change the IOR to a value of 2 we would get the result pictured
bottom-right. Though this object shows minimal problems with
changing the IOR values try using this method on a spherical
or cubical object. Sometimes its best to use a different value
for each type of modeled object.
Experiment, and try
to perfect your chrome for your projects.
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