Customizing Particle Flow Tools: Box#2

The 3ds Max system path for plug-in configuration files (typically something like C:\Documents and Settings\[user name]\Local Settings\Application Data\Autodesk\3dsmax\2009 - 32bit\enu\plugcfg\) contains a initialization (INI) file named ParticleFlowToolsBox2.ini. This is a simple XML file that defines default parameter values in Box#2.

After installation this file looks like this:

<DefaultSettings>
    <PhysXWorld Safe_Mode_Simulation="on" Calculation_Limit="10" />
    <PhysX_Shape Collide_Type="0" />
</DefaultSettings>

In this default state, the file overrides two parameters in PhysX World helper and one parameter in the PhysX Shape operator.

To override additional parameters, follow this procedure:

1. Open the MAXScript Listener and make sure MacroRecorder > Enable is on.

2. Create a Box#2 PFlow operator whose parameter you want to override and note the name shown in Maxscript Listener for this operator.

3. Adjust the parameter that you want to change to the desired value and note how it is shown in Maxscript Listener.

4. Add the data to the INI file using the same form as the records already in the file. Don't forget to put the value in quotes (" ").

   For example, to make the PhysX Drag operator > Damping Factor > Linear setting on by default, add this line anywhere between the first and last lines:

       <PhysX_Drag Apply_Linear_Damping="on" />

5. Quit 3ds Max and then restart.

The plug-in reads the content of the Box#2 INI file only when 3ds Max starts, and then uses this information as a possible default override.

Note: The folder where the INI file resides depends on various factors and your 3ds Max settings. Typically it's the \plugcfg\ folder within the path specified by the Customize menu > Configure System Paths > System panel > MaxData setting.