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It introduces a lot of new features and adds workflow improvements, such as radial menus, hierarchical isolation, multi-window support, and many others.
Nick Kallen has launched Plasticity 1.3, a new version of the NURBS-based modeling tool, which enhances surfacing workflows and introduces a lot of new features.
Plasticity, a sophisticated software for NURBS-based modeling, has been under development for over two years. Initially launched in April, the software showcased cutting-edge modeling tools, a user-friendly interface, and key bindings reminiscent of Blender. The latest stable release, Plasticity 1.2, was introduced in July.
With its new release, Plasticity introduces the Blender Bridge add-on, enabling a live-link between the two applications. This integration allows users to preview Plasticity models within Blender, complete with accurate materials and lighting. Notable updates also include the addition of chordal fillet support, a new radial menu system for efficient access to essential settings, and the introduction of object soloing in scenes.
Features
- The Blender Bridge
- Customizable radial menus
- Hierarchical isolation
- Multiple windows + Copy/Paste + place command for kitbashing
- Many enhancements to Outliner
- Chordal fillets
- Enhancements to the Edge movement
- New Commands, including Selection: convert to groups, Project Outline, Create Outline, Thicken Face
- Enhancements to the workspace, file import/export, etc.
Image credit: Nick Kallen
Speaking of some features above, the Blender Bridge quickly transfers mesh data from Plasticity to Blender through a convenient add-on. With a simple refresh, data loads swiftly, eliminating the need for exporting or adjusting settings.
Modifications made in Plasticity maintain Blender materials, and the group structure becomes collections in Blender, allowing multiple Plasticity documents to be incorporated into one Blender document.
The live link feature provides real-time updates, enabling you to view changes as they happen, utilizing Blender's materials, lighting, and ray tracing. Objects can be seen in scenes with the real camera and specific FOV, giving you the full capabilities of Blender, including animation, rigging, and verifying mechanical parts.
The workflow is enhanced as faceting settings can be adjusted within Blender, and most of Plasticity's faceting tools are accessible. This allows for quicker adjustments in polygon density and edge flow, resulting in a more efficient workflow.
While UV seams and sharps in Blender are not retained, the add-on includes features that automatically mark edges, select corresponding geometry, and merge UV seams, further streamlining the workflow.
Image credit: Nick Kallen
Image credit: Nick Kallen
The Radial Menu is a customizable popup menu that facilitates quick command execution via shortcut keys. Two default menus, "Selection Mode" and "Viewport Settings," are included for toggling selection modes and modifying 3D viewport settings. Users have the flexibility to customize or create their own Radial Menus, incorporating all commands available in Plasticity. To use the default Radial Menu, installation is necessary.
Learn more about the features and get Plasticity 1.3 here. Also, don't forget to join our 80 Level Talent platform and our Telegram channel, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, where we share breakdowns, the latest news, awesome artworks, and more.