ZBrush Insufficient Memory Error
The dreaded ZBrush memory error reared its ugly head as I was trying to create a 4096x4096 adaptive displacement and adaptive normal map for the velociraptor model.
ZBrush Memory Error dialogues crashing the scene.
At the highest subdivision, the raptor model reached 13.4 million points. While taxing to the system, ZBrush handled sculpting at the highest subdivision with ease. Our system is pretty beastly and has more RAM than the current 32-bit version of ZBrush can use, so I was a bit confused to see the MEMORY ERROR dialogue appear. Instead of abandoning my work and reducing the model complexity, I decided to consult The Internet.
As it turns out, insufficient memory errors can be caused by numerous issues which all have their own fixes. For reference, our machine was running Windows 7 64-bit SP1 and had plenty of RAM.
Velociraptor, Part 1
We started working on a "velociraptor" model the other day. I put quotes around the name because it's the Jurassic Park version of a velociraptor - large and featherless. Normal velociraptors, on the other hand, are turkey sized and are believed to have had feathers.
I decided to start the model in ZBrush, using ZSpheres to rough out the bone structure and ZSketch to give the model volume and muscle mass before the initial sculpting.
 ZSphere Pose |
 ZSpheres to define volume |
 First sculpting pass |