putting several models in to one in MLCAD?

[apemax]

I'm trying to make a scene in MLCAD (then rendering it in pov-ray) with several different models, with there being more than one of each model. i can multiply one model (by doing select all, then duplicate) but when it comes to adding another model i can't figure out how to do it. anyone have any idea's?

[kyphur]

Are you using the "Multiple File" Option?

If so then just import the existing file and add multiple instances of it to the first model in the file.

You do this from the menu bar, "Multipart" then "Import Model". The model appears in the parts tree under "Document"

[apemax]

Are you using the "Multiple File" Option?

If so then just import the existing file and add multiple instances of it to the first model in the file.

You do this from the menu bar, "Multipart" then "Import Model". The model appears in the parts tree under "Document"

well i tried that but when i run L3PAO to convert it to .pov so i can render it it just says empty model in the .pov file. is there any way of doing this with a normal .dat/.ldr?

[kyphur]

If you have all of the different models built as ldr files then:

1. Start with a blank model.

2. Right click in the building area, select "Add" then "Part"

3. Click the check box for "Custom Part" then click the "Browse" button.

4. Find and select the ldr file.

5. repeat for all of the models you need.

FWIW, when using a mpd file make sure the first model in the file has the complete scene in it. I've never had a problem rendering with either of these methods.

[apemax]

FWIW, when using a mpd file make sure the first model in the file has the complete scene in it.

that worked. didn't realize you needed to do that. thanks.

[kyphur]

that worked. didn't realize you needed to do that. thanks.

No Prob, glad I could be of help...

[private_lego]

Make sure that your files are LDR files and not MPD files.

You can't add MPD files into other LDR files.

[apemax]

ah ok thanks.

[Eric J. Olson]

It's better form to put multiple "mini models" of the main model into an MPD (multi-part) file versus including LDR files into another.

Part of the issue is that renderes don't like it if the files aren't included in main parts list, so, if you reference several LDRs into another and they're all in separate files, you will A) Create a mess in your directory that makes it hard to navigate and B) You may have to frequently update your parts list to include all of the "extra" files that you made so the renderer knows where to find them.

[apemax]

It's better form to put multiple "mini models" of the main model into an MPD (multi-part) file versus including LDR files into another.

Part of the issue is that renderes don't like it if the files aren't included in main parts list, so, if you reference several LDRs into another and they're all in separate files, you will A) Create a mess in your directory that makes it hard to navigate and B) You may have to frequently update your parts list to include all of the "extra" files that you made so the renderer knows where to find them.

Sorry for the late reply. Thanks for the advice.