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Lifting Hook

A

s I mentioned in a previous post, I planned to go back to the assets I created last year for the exterior and finally complete modelling and texturing them.

I started with the hydraulic picking crane. One of the largest pieces of gear on the main deck, the crane towers over everything and is really hard not to miss. I felt I needed to add more detail to the arms, add all the hydraulic components, link up the main cable to the winch and add a hook.

Below is a rigging setup of a lifting hook at the end of the crane arm I modelled. 


Jason Bartlett ©

After watching enough episodes of the TV show Deadliest Catch, I gathered enough knowledge of the correct rigging sets to not have to try and find references! What I did need reference for however, is the hook shape. Years of advancements in technology as well as health and safety has changed the overall shape and features of tools in the crab fishing industry. A lifting hook being one of these. Luckily, I was able to look at a variety of images as well as 3D models online to get the general feel for what one looked like in the late 70's. Additionally, I wanted to get the size right; giving some bulk to the whole form. I felt this was important as this type of hook lifts crab pots weighing around 700 to 800 pounds!



Jason Bartlett ©

Next up will be detailing and adding all the hydraulic hoses.

I look forward to texturing the crane. Especially the lifting hook; creating weathering and telling a story with all the scratches and rust!


Thanks for reading :)

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