MXS Pixel Mapper for Track Makers

[ddmx]

I've been developing what I call a pixel mapper. I'll give a brief tutorial on how to use it, and leave it to you guys for feedback on ease of use and future features.

What it does:
The program steps through a "Pixel Map" and places a statues line every time it sees the color pixel that denotes your objects "Pixel Definition File".
Accepts any size terrain.png and any size Pixel Map.
Set the background color of your pixel map to transparent to see it overlayed on the terrain.

Possible uses:
Photoshop pen tool > stroke path with distance offset. Place AMA stakes accurately around the track with the click of a (few) buttons.
Photoshop brushes for random object placement across a map.
Many Many More!

Future Updates:
Ability to include multiple objects and pixel colors in 1 definition file.
Ability to place objects within the program. Eliminate third party software.
"Rotate towards nearest" feature for bales and banners and w/e else that needs aligned when placed.
Fancy GUI
3D view with .jm integration (hopefully) so you can see the models placed in real time
Ultimately, a long way down, a standalone editor, but doubtful.

Video Tutorial. Thanks Wheels!


Quick Rundown. In PS I placed a path and stroked it with a 1px pen 1000% spacing. Ran the program and exported ama stakes onto my track. Saved the definition file for future use.


IT WILL PLACE AN OBJECT EVERY TIME IT SEES THE PIXEL IT'S LOOKING FOR! haha
Download (alert me of glitches, it's only been tested on win7)
Pixel Mapper 1.1 Update

[Mikey]

Good shit Dave, this myte give me motivation to finish up a few tracks!

[DJ99X]

Sick idea dude. A couple of suggestions:

- A random/height rotation between two set numbers
- A billboard option (with random height/scale like above)
- When you allow the placement within the program, perhaps set up a spline system?
- Perhaps a "stand upright" check box that adds 2 pi to whatever the rotation is set to (not really a problem for people who know what pi is)

Thats all I got for now

[yzmxer608]

I haven't tested it but that's a great idea!

Now I can't wait to test it, damn college.

[VMX_SKYmx99]

wow, thanks a lot DDMX. This will definitely come in handy.

[Sandhapper]

Sick DDMX!, but I can't figure out how to get that red points with the pen tool, or do u just use the brush for that?

[ddmx]

Sick DDMX!, but I can't figure out how to get that red points with the pen tool, or do u just use the brush for that?

Use a red "Pencil". With the "Pen" tool, just stroke it with the pencil.

[stevoktm]

Sick DDMX!, but I can't figure out how to get that red points with the pen tool, or do u just use the brush for that?

create your path, set your pencil settings up on the right and right click with the path tool and select stroke path, then select pencil from the drop down menu and click ok.

[Sandhapper]

Thx for the help guys. I got the map and stuff but now when I start the track, I dont see any objects :S

[ddmx]

1. Select working track folder
2. create pixel definition with object, skin, colision (should all be in the track folder), height, rotation
3. load your pixel map (make sure to use red, ARGB(255, 255, 0, 0) or (ffff0000))
4. write to statues file

Let me know if you still can't get it.

[ddmx]

As well, I'm working on making it a bit more user friendly right now. Also the ability for 16 or so different Pixel Definitions for a single pixel map.

Currently Working On:
More user friendly
16 or so pixel definitions for a single pixel map
billboard export with rnd height, alternating height, or set height

[wheels1758]

David, what programming language did you use for this?

[ddmx]

VB.net

I almost started it in C# for the easier ability to morph it into an external 3d track editing program. i.e. Twisted Dirt's MVA Editor. There's no saying that I won't do that Later on. I just knew I could knock this out in VB much quicker right now.

[Sandhapper]

I still can't see the objects ingame:/ Here is a video how I do it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbsP0j9VC9Y

[haggqvist]

Brilliant stuff!
As for other possible uses I just have one thing to say; flaggers!
Placing flaggers is definitely on the top three list of the most mind-numbingly boring things I've done!