FlightGear Newsletter July 2011: Difference between revisions

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== Aircraft of the month ==
== Aircraft of the month ==
== Airport of the month ==
== Airport of the month ==
== New SketchUp Exporter Plugin ==
SketchUp to AC3D exporter - Development Update July 2011
SketchUp models which are completed using the existing SketchUp to AC3D exporter are rendered in FlightGear with double sided faces.
Though there is nothing wrong with double sided faces, there is a considerable saving in FG processing if single faces can be used. This affects fps (frames per second) and is particularly noticeable when entering an area which is heavily inhabited by buildings/models.
It is possible to export SketchUp models with single faces by using a new version of the exporter (adapted by VicMar & i4dnf).
The new version is named ‘ac3dS_export.rb’ and is available for download from:
http://vicmar.weebly.com/downloads.html
The ‘ac3dS_export.rb’ file should be placed in the same folder/directory as the existing exporter. In the SketchUp ‘Plugins’ menu, it will appear as “Export to AC3D (Single_Faced)” and will appear with the existing exporter.
The new version is recommended for use with SketchUp models which DO NOT have any see-through textures. It is also not recommended if your model has apertures like Hangar doors, which allow a view inside the building, as the opposite walls will be invisible.
There is a work around for models which have see-through textures, but it is a chore to do, so it is recommended you use the existing exporter. If you would like details of the work arounds, yes there are two, just ask.
Any feedback will be welcomed on the Forum:
http://www.flightgear.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=12778
== Screenshot of the month ==
== Screenshot of the month ==


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