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356 Chapter 5: Creating Geometry
When Op timize Path is off, the lof ted roadway uses more
steps.
When Op timi ze Path is on, straight section s of the lofted
roadway don’t require additional steps.
Adaptive Path Steps—When on, analyzes the
loft and adapts the number of path divisions
to generate the best skin. Main divisions along
the path occur at path vertices, shape locations,
and deformation curve vertices. When off,
main divisions along the path occur only at path
vertices. Default=on.
Co ntour—When on, each shape follows the
curvature of t he path. The positive Z axis of e ach
shape is alig ned with the tangent to the p ath at the
shape’s level. When off, shapes remain parallel
and have the same orientation as a shape placed
at level 0. Default=on.
Lofting the roadway with Contour off causes it to t w ist.
Roadway lofted with Contour turned on
Bank ing—Whenon,shapesrotateaboutthepath
whenever the path bends and changes height in the
path’s local Z axis. The bank amount is controlled
by 3ds Max. Ban k ing is ig nored if the path is 2D.
When off, shapes do not rotate about their Z axis
as they traverse a 3D path. Default=on.