Automatic Material Database update
Posted: Fri Aug 18, 2006 8:43 pm
I wonder how feasible it would be to sync a local material database with the MXM site? The "self serve" model currently in place should remain a primary interface, but as a member, it would be nice to be able to have the Maxwell Material Editor do a search (when launched) of newly uploaded materials on the MXM site.
A dialog window could then show a summary of the new materials uploaded since the last sync and allow the user the option to download new shaders and maps automatically into the local materials database. This procedure could work in reverse as well, allowing the user to upload user created MXMs and maps from within MXED, ensuring that the material is uploaded correctly.
This would allow your material library to be regularely updated and reduce the time moving files around when you do get a new material. I imagine this feed could have a preference pane in MXED with filters that might look for specific types of shaders and ignore others.... IE. ALL Glass, ALL mxm's rated 6.00 or higher, ALL Architectural shaders, etc. Or NO Jewels, NO Pavement, etc.
Food for thought.
A dialog window could then show a summary of the new materials uploaded since the last sync and allow the user the option to download new shaders and maps automatically into the local materials database. This procedure could work in reverse as well, allowing the user to upload user created MXMs and maps from within MXED, ensuring that the material is uploaded correctly.
This would allow your material library to be regularely updated and reduce the time moving files around when you do get a new material. I imagine this feed could have a preference pane in MXED with filters that might look for specific types of shaders and ignore others.... IE. ALL Glass, ALL mxm's rated 6.00 or higher, ALL Architectural shaders, etc. Or NO Jewels, NO Pavement, etc.
Food for thought.