Converting CrazyBump Normal Map to FSX Bump Map...

[n4gix]

The chief "problem" with converting the "Normal Maps" that are produced by CrazyBump is that even when run through ImageTool.exe using the correct command line parameter list the Blue Channel retains it's "normal component" instead of reverting to pure white as per the FSX SDK specifications.

IMAGE TOOL:
If you plan to use ImageTool.exe to convert the "Normal Map" to an "FSX Bump Map," simply use your Paint program to remove the "normal component" from the Blue Channel. IOW, "paint it pure white!" Then, select the Green Channel's "normal component" and Invert the image in that Channel. ImageTool.exe will - with the correct parameter list - will "move the Red Channel components" to the Alpha Channel, flip the image, and save the file automatically.

PHOTOSHOP CS:
Below are two pictures illustrating how we can correct this problem using Photoshop CS:

In the image below is the output file that CrazyBump generated for the C172 default aircraft:



Here is the "Bump Map" after applying the "fixes required" prior to "flipping vertically" and saving directly from Photoshop to DDS/DXT5 format.

[Heretic]

Bill, I've tried your tutorial with GIMP 2.4, but it somehow doesn't work out. My FSX output looks like this:





What am I doing wrong? Or might GIMP be the cause, although I could colorize and flip the channels with it?
Or is my 3DSM7 model faulty?

[Heretic]

No success either with PS CS3.

Did the whole dance, but the model retains its blueish appearance.

*Sigh*
No bumps for my airport, I guess.

[n4gix]

Originally Posted by Heretic

What am I doing wrong? Or might GIMP be the cause, although I could colorize and flip the channels with it?
Or is my 3DSM7 model faulty?

How are you specifying the 'bump map' in Max7? From the screen shots it appears as if you put the 'bump map' texture assignment in the Diffuse Color slot instead of the "Bump" slot...

[Heretic]

Originally Posted by n4gix

How are you specifying the 'bump map' in Max7? From the screen shots it appears as if you put the 'bump map' texture assignment in the Diffuse Color slot instead of the "Bump" slot...

Nope, the slots are okay in Max.

I'm using "Blinn" in the "shader basic parameters", with "2 sided" ticked 'though. Might this be an issue?

[n4gix]

Honestly, I have no idea at all. From the examples in the default \Texture folder, it's clear enough that Bump maps are supported, so...

Have you set the FSX Material properties as outlined by the illustration in the "New Aircraft Proceedures: General Material" document?

[Heretic]

Okay, problem solved.

You should never mistake a bump map for a detail map...keep that slot in the FSX materials empty!

*Bangs head on desk*


Thanks nonetheless, Bill.

[n4gix]

Originally Posted by Heretic

Okay, problem solved.

You should never mistake a bump map for a detail map...keep that slot in the FSX materials empty!

*Bangs head on desk*

Thanks nonetheless, Bill.

Well, my question regarding the specification must have made you look more closely, so you are quite welcome!