Virtual Coaster Modeling with Patrick

Before a roller coaster is built it is often conceptualized on the computer using a digital model. Patrick McGarvey is an experienced modeler who has created some remarkable coaster renderings. Continue reading to hear more about his design process and the software he uses.

C101: Can you briefly introduce yourself – who are you and what do you do?patick mcgarvey

Patrick: I’m from Livonia, a small town in Western New York and have always been interested in roller coasters and amusement parks since I was young. My father took me on my first “big” coaster ride when I was six and I’ve been hooked ever since. I worked at Cedar Point as a Team Leader in Ride Operations for five years- it was the best job I’ve ever had and I learned so much about the industry from my experience there. Currently I do freelance work and one day hope to get back in some aspect of the theme park industry.

C101: How did you get into computer modeling?

Patrick: When I was in high school I took a mechanical drawing class where we learned to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and I gained an interest in the 3d modeling field. I tried a few programs on my own and basically started messing around with them whenever I had some free time and picked up most of it from scratch. After some trial and error and learning as I went along I got the hang of it and over time was able to create the 3d models I always thought about doing. It was really great to be able to create a full and detailed three dimensional rendering from little sketches and ideas that I came up with in the past.

C101: What software do you use and why did you choose that particular one over others?

Patrick: I primarily use Rhino 3d for modeling, KeyShot for photo-realistic rendering and also use No Limits Roller Coaster Simulator for track layout and design. I’ve tried a few other modeling programs in the past but I’m mostly accustomed to using these right now as part of the design process. As of right now I only do static models but would love to and hope to get into animation in the future.

3D roller coaster images

C101: Can you tell us about the process when you start a new model –I mean, where do you even begin?

Patrick: I always start projects with a little brainstorming session to pull some ideas together and determine what kind of subject it will be- the particular type of roller coaster for instance. This can include obtaining photos and research of a real ride that I want to create or base a new concept off. Next I like to start sketching some of these thoughts and getting an initial feel of how they will look. If it’s going to be a type of coaster I’ll create the track for the ride in No Limits, as it’s much easier and quicker to make it in this than by hand in Rhino and use a 3rd-party add-on (No Limits Construction Kit) to convert it into a file that Rhino and other modeling programs can open. Then I begin adding supports, buildings, landscaping and other details before working on a main focus of the project. This could be the coaster train or ride itself and it is the most involving and time-consuming when modeling, and I try to put in as much detail as I can to make it realistic. The final images are either rendered straight in this modeling program or taken to a separate rendering program for the best possible depiction.

build your own coaster

 

C101: Your images look very realistic – how is this accomplished? Do you use any tricks with lighting or anything like that?

Patrick: Getting my images to look realistic is accomplished by several things that make a noticeable difference: using different types and positions of environmental lighting and applying high quality texture maps/materials. It can take some time to apply specific types of materials to certain parts individually but the end result is definitely worth it.roller coaster models

C101: What’s the most challenging aspect of 3d modeling to you?

Patrick: The most challenging aspect of modeling for me is getting it to look as I had envisioned upon initial brainstorming. You never really know if it will turn out the way that you had planned until you get a bit into the project and see how things are coming along.

C101: What’s the best advice you can give to someone looking to make their own 3D models and renders?

Patrick: I would say take your time to research and learn about the programs that you will use. Never stop learning as you go along and ask questions, there’s plenty of tutorials and helpful people on rendering forums. And definitely have fun with it, I kind of like the whole process and progression that takes place.

C101: Since this is for Coaster101 I have to ask, what is your favorite roller coaster?

Patrick: My favorite coaster is Intimidator 305at King’s Dominion because it takes the best features of other coasters Millennium Force and Maverick to create a fantastic ride that is tall, fast and low to the ground.

roller coaster 3d

C101: Thanks Patrick for sharing some of your insight into coaster modeling. To see more of Patrick’s realistic coaster renders check out his work on Coroflot and a 3d modeling album on Facebook.

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