Vector Map

Applies vector-based graphics including animations as textures for objects.

A vector-graphic file has the advantage of being descriptive, so the image it generates is independent of display resolution. The Vector map supports a variety of industry-standard vector-graphic formats.

The default Vector map pattern

AutoCAD ® Pattern (PAT) Files

You can save AutoCAD hatch patterns as PAT files. There are other applications, such as AHatch Pro, that can create and edit these files.

A single PAT file can contain multiple patterns.

Vector map with a PAT file

When a PAT file is the active vector file, controls on the Pattern Parameters rollout become available.

Adobe ® Illustrator ® (AI) and Portable Document (PDF) Formats

The Vector map supports AI files generated by Adobe Illustrator 9 through CS6. When you save an AI file for use with 3ds Max, turn on Create PDF Compatible File.

Tip: When you work in Illustrator, use View Overprint Preview mode to see colors as they will appear in the output file.

Vector map with a PDF file

When an AI or PDF file is the active vector file, controls on the Adobe Illustrator / PDF Parameters rollout become available.

Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG)

The Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) format uses XML to encode imagery. There are applications, such as Inkscape, for creating and editing SVG files. The Vector map can also load SVGZ files, which are SVG files in a compressed format.

Tip: If you use Inkscape to create an SVG file for use with 3ds Max, follow these guidelines:
  • Save the file as Plain SVG, not as Inkscape SVG.
  • Do not scale any entity that contains strokes.

The Vector map has no additional controls for SVG files (that is, no special SVG rollout). However, you can control an SVG file using MAXScript. See the topic " Vector_Map TextureMap and MAXScript" in the MAXScript Reference.

Vector map with an SVG file

The Vector map does not support some features of the SVG specification. For details, see Supported SVG Elements and Attributes.