About ShapeMap
ShapeMap is a Grasshopper add-on that maps 2D curves or image-based textures onto a complex 3D shape with minimal distortion. This makes texture design on models intuitive and efficient.
Now Available for Rhino WIP
It is included in Rhino WIP for both Windows and Mac. To find it, open Grasshopper and search for the Transform > ShapeMap tab.
How to use it
Download the samples file here…
Step 1: Unroll the 3D Object
Use ShapeSolver and ShapeMap components to unroll the 3D object, similar to the Flow command. Align Line0 (placed near the object) as the Base Curve , and set Line1 as the Target Curve to define the unrolled border’s position.
Step 2: Design the 2D Pattern
Design your pattern, ensuring all curves remain within the boundaries of the unrolled border curve.
Step 3: Map the Pattern Back to 3D
Use MapToShapecomponent to accurately project the 2D pattern curves from the unrolled layout back onto the original 3D object.
ShapeTexture: New Workflow Clusters
We are also distributing new custom clusters to streamline 3D texture generation. These clusters allow you to generate textures using an image, mesh, surface, or SubD as input modules.
How to find it
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Download and unzip
ShapeTexture.zipto your computer.
ShapeTexture.zip (36.6 KB) -
Paste the unzipped files into the following folder.
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Restart Rhino WIP, then open Grasshopper.
1. Image Module
You can apply a texture on a 3D shape based on a bitmap module. See the example below, or refer to the tutorial for detailed instructions.
01_ImageModule.gh (1.2 MB)
2. Surface, Mesh or SubD Module
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2.1 Using a untrimmed surface as input module
2-1_SrfModule.gh (79.6 KB) -
2.2 Using a mesh as input module
2-2_MeshModule.gh (82.2 KB) -
2.3 Using a SubD as input module
2-3_SubDModule.gh (83.8 KB)
More examples
All ShapeMap files created for Rhino 8 are fully compatible with Rhino WIP. You can download the samples files from the link below to test them, which also includes our previously shared tutorial videos and guides.
https://discourse.mcneel.com/t/about-the-shapemap-category/195378/3
Try it and share your feeback
Here’s an overview of what ShapeMap can do today. Our roadmap will be shaped by your feedback here. One planned addition, for example, is BREP texture module support (see preview below). You’re invited to download the latest Rhino WIP and give it a try. We’re eager to hear what you think!
Note:
It’s currently planned to remain available in Grasshopper only.