Maya Modelling

Introduction

This blog post aims to develop a space-based escape pod in Maya, which demonstrates hard surface skills.

The below research and initial sketches inspired the final escape pod design.

Figure 1 – A Pinterest mood board displaying design inspiration for the Maya Space-based Escape Pod.
Figure 2 – Initial space pod designs.

Link to the Pinterest board – https://www.pinterest.co.uk/adalton1202/maya/

Initial Design Development of Space Pod in Maya

Using the initial design sketches as a reference I began to construct the escape pod in Autodesk Maya. The images below show the progression of the first initial design development, from different perspectives. Developing this design, I became familiar with the software interface and learnt how to combine different shapes to create a finished design. The model shows an escape pod with two engines and lights around the bottom.

Figure 3 – First development of a space pod in Maya. Figuring out how to use the interface.
Figure 4 – Further developing the initial space pod. Combining basic shapes to form aspects of the pod.
Figure 5 – Developing space pod at a different angle.
Figure 6 – Further developing the space pod, adding extra layers to the original form and modelling lights.
Figure 7 – Further developing the space pod by adding a handle for entry.
Figure 8 – Different perspectives of initial space pod design in Maya. Showcasing the top, front, side, and perspective views.
Final Design Development of Space Pod in Maya

The final design was developed using the initial sketches after the realisation of the first escape pod looked too much like a bin/buoy. The images below show the progression of the final modelling process. The final design was developed by manipulating different shapes and bringing them all together. The final model shows an escape pod with one engine and reinforcement details which would protect the pod in space.

Figure 9 – Final design development in Maya, combining shapes to form the final space pod.
Figure 10 – Adding more design details to the pod, the design thinking behind the circles could potentially be textured as windows or structural assets.
Figure 11 – Using perspective mode to ensure the space pod shape is even.
Figure 12 – Different perspectives of the final space pod design in Maya. Showcasing the top, front, side, and perspective views.
Figure 13 – Final Space-based Escape Pod modelled in Maya.

The final design will be U.V unwrapped and imported into Adobe Substance Painter where a custom colour and texture will be applied to bring the model to life.

Reflection

The Autodesk Maya modelling task provided me with an understanding of hard surface modelling techniques which will aid in the development of my design portfolio assignment. The software interface is advanced, and I found it difficult to get the hang of it at first. Although experimenting with different tools and techniques such as shape manipulation, I was able to understand the basics and design a space escape pod. 

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