One thing I have noticed as I started to use the program is the following.......
1, I construct a model and import a few parts in .gif.
2. At a later stage I load the model and the imported parts (sometines but not always) appear to be missing.
3. Shutting down Model Builder completely and then reopening solves the problem.
I suspect this is something to do with the way the program handles memory allocation?
Anyway, if you see a similar problem this is the partical fix!
Losing detail - Memory Issue Maybe.....?
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evande
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There are a few things you can try to reduce the memory load.
Let's say you have a window .gif that you plan to have 7 copies of in your project. Instead of using "Edit" > "Paste" 7 times, it is better to import 1 copy of the window. Then use "Edit" > "Duplicate" to put the copies up there. You will only use one reference to the item instead of 7, reducing file size.
Also, check the size of the .gif files you are importing. Modern cameras have very high resolution, suitable for 8" x 10" or larger prints. But in model scales 1:87 or even 1:24 that extra resolution is just not necessary. We used to say in the manual keep imports below 500k in size but with newer computers we stopped mentioning that restriction. If you are in Corel Photopaint, there is a "resample" option that I believe lets you toy with the resolution and reduce your image size. Or when you save as ".gif" file type there should be a compression factor slider. In Adobe Photoshop the command is "Save for Web" and it gives a "4 up" view of the image with the different resolutions.
Another thought, you could design in sections. I like to do this for larger buildings. I build the front wall and one side wall. Save and close. Reopen the file and save as "part 2" then I delete the front door, add the back door, delete windows and trim, add some junk and graffiti. This saves time and is an easy way to make up a building, guaranteeing the front and back + 2 sides will exactly match in size. And it uses 1/2 the memory!
Let's say you have a window .gif that you plan to have 7 copies of in your project. Instead of using "Edit" > "Paste" 7 times, it is better to import 1 copy of the window. Then use "Edit" > "Duplicate" to put the copies up there. You will only use one reference to the item instead of 7, reducing file size.
Also, check the size of the .gif files you are importing. Modern cameras have very high resolution, suitable for 8" x 10" or larger prints. But in model scales 1:87 or even 1:24 that extra resolution is just not necessary. We used to say in the manual keep imports below 500k in size but with newer computers we stopped mentioning that restriction. If you are in Corel Photopaint, there is a "resample" option that I believe lets you toy with the resolution and reduce your image size. Or when you save as ".gif" file type there should be a compression factor slider. In Adobe Photoshop the command is "Save for Web" and it gives a "4 up" view of the image with the different resolutions.
Another thought, you could design in sections. I like to do this for larger buildings. I build the front wall and one side wall. Save and close. Reopen the file and save as "part 2" then I delete the front door, add the back door, delete windows and trim, add some junk and graffiti. This saves time and is an easy way to make up a building, guaranteeing the front and back + 2 sides will exactly match in size. And it uses 1/2 the memory!
Evan Designs
Thanks for the comments!
I have been reducing the gif's etc - PSP has quite a nice option to do this.
The problem was probably from all the gif's - in my other post about the ruler they are basically all the diagonals - and there are several sizes and types there! Viva the "rotate" tool!
In your last paragrah you suggest the "Part 2" approach. Have been doing this but still sometimes get the memory issues if I do not start of with files afresh. I am assuming that this is because the program stores the "components".
It is however not really an issue - once one is aware of what happens and the cure then the problem really is not a problem!
I have been reducing the gif's etc - PSP has quite a nice option to do this.
The problem was probably from all the gif's - in my other post about the ruler they are basically all the diagonals - and there are several sizes and types there! Viva the "rotate" tool!
In your last paragrah you suggest the "Part 2" approach. Have been doing this but still sometimes get the memory issues if I do not start of with files afresh. I am assuming that this is because the program stores the "components".
It is however not really an issue - once one is aware of what happens and the cure then the problem really is not a problem!
-
evande
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Yes Model Builder stores your imported items, gifs, jpeg etc in the files you make.
By saving imported items into Model Builder Files this makes file sharing possible so that other users can see all the items that you have imported.
When you create a building you often use dozens of windows, trim elements, all with great detail.
If I open 15 or 20 photos with a photo editing program my computer will probably slow down or even lock up. To avoid this problem in Model Builder you only import pieces of photos such as the windows and doors that make your building unique.
Tip to reduce file size. If possible use the Windows clipboard or the jpg file type for importing images. The exception to this rule is if you want to import an item that is Not rectangular such as an arched window or a diagonal item. When saving non-rectangular gifs it is good to keep the file size below 500k, preferably less than 200.
By saving imported items into Model Builder Files this makes file sharing possible so that other users can see all the items that you have imported.
When you create a building you often use dozens of windows, trim elements, all with great detail.
If I open 15 or 20 photos with a photo editing program my computer will probably slow down or even lock up. To avoid this problem in Model Builder you only import pieces of photos such as the windows and doors that make your building unique.
Tip to reduce file size. If possible use the Windows clipboard or the jpg file type for importing images. The exception to this rule is if you want to import an item that is Not rectangular such as an arched window or a diagonal item. When saving non-rectangular gifs it is good to keep the file size below 500k, preferably less than 200.
Evan Designs