For the past six years I have had the pleasure of working in 3ds Max creating 3D models for use in nGRAIN Producer Pro. The models are created from client provided reference materials and reference gathered on location at various locations across the United States. References used for modeling included technical manuals, 360 degree photos, procedure videos, and input from subject matter experts.
The Fairbanks Morse 38 1/8D engine was created for the US Navy to train sailors on routine and periodical maintenance tasks. This model is highly detailed and was developed by a team of 6 modelers. I was responsible for leading the developement team, including individual modeler tasking and tracking project status.
The Honda 225 outboard engine model was created for the US Coast Guard and contains over 350 unique parts. This model was created by a team of modelers working on seperate sub systems. Final assembly was my responsibilty as the lead modeler.
Realistic textures were used sparingly since the end models were to be converted and then used in a voxel based application. Most materials were solid colors to save time during development; although photo realistic textures were completely possible.
Polygon count is kept to a minimum by only creating enough quads and triangles to achieve the desired detail level. Since the models are being converted in Okino PolyTrans, the models require clean geometry. Models are monitored for overlapping faces, isolated vertices, and open edges.