Minor Project - RHA Soldier Model

In terms of the Royal Horse Artillery (RHA) models that were necessary for the animation it was decided that a base model would be created. This model would incorporate key features that are shared across all the character models belonging to this faction. This included clothing such as the trousers and the puttee wraps around the lower half of the legs. With all this in mind it would be easier that the models can share components so extras could be generated more easily. Other accessories would include a bandolier, hat and satchel which could be removed or left on depending on the needs of the model. Characters with certain features such as facial hair will be modelled separately based on the basic model. In the future I am also planning to create a new torso without the over coat showing the shirt and braces underneath adding more variation.  

Finalising RHA soldier

In terms of the art style I wanted to carry the angular creases into Maya while using textures to help extenuate the folds of the clothes. The model would heavily depend on the texture to bring it to life. 

First interpretation for orthograph

Final orthographic drawings for RHA soldier

In the process of making the model there were a few challenges that were generated due to the initial attempts trying to replicate the format of a game model. By using a low poly model the reliance on a texture and poly map would greatly increase but also give quite a blocky model which could have given the desired style. In the end, with alot of guidance from Alan, it was decided to take an alternate route. 

Final model

Hat and bandolier model

The first model would not use the smooth function allowing for the use of trianlges instead of quads. However with the added complexity of creases and current knowledge of models the model's mesh proved too messy and unorganised for me. 

Inital attempts at model

Instead of following the path of a games model a more traditional method was used with the edition of Maya's crease function. The function allowed for the edge to be more defined and is represented by the thicker lines in display. Initial it was planned that the model's faical features would be a painted texture but it was opted that a set of eyes, mouth and throat would be modelled instead. 

Wire frame over final model with creases