Scene : Cache

Owned by thomas (Unlicensed)
Last updated: 18 Oct, 2018 by Alex Ribao
2 min read

"Caching" means that RealFlow | 3ds Max writes the simulation data to disk (one file per fluid/deformer/mesh node and frame) and saves them for later use, e.g. for replaying the simulation or exchange with other programs.

We recommend watching the intro video about caching simulation in the → "Workflow - Video Hub" repository.

 

 


Cache Folder

This is the path to the folder where the simulation files will be stored. If you want to preserve already existing files we recommend changing the "Cache Folder" with every simulation.

Browse Folder

To change the cache folder press this button.

Cache Simulation

When you click on this button RealFlow | 3ds Max will simulate the adjusted frame range:

  • During this process, particles are visible and with the ESC key the process is interrupted.
  • RealFlow | 3ds Max writes one Alembic particle file per frame and fluid container under the "Cache Folder" specified above. WetMap PNG files will be written too if enabled.
  • Be careful, because already existing files will be overwritten!
Cache Meshes

To create and save meshes from an already cached simulation, press this button:

  • During this process, particles are not visible, but a progress bar informs you about the simulation's state and with “Cancel” the process is interrupted. 
  • RealFlow | 3ds Max writes one Alembic mesh file per frame and mesh container under the "Cache Folder" specified above.
  • Be careful, because already existing mesh files will be overwritten!
Remove Cache

A click on this button prompts you to remove cache files related to the current scene or any cache file found in the folder. This action cannot be undone. The options are:

  • "Remove Scene Cache Files (N files)". Files in the cache folder that match the name of current scene fluids and meshes are removed. Initial states will be preserved.
  • "Remove Cache Folder (N files)". Files at top level of the cache folder will be removed.
Use Cache

When enabled RealFlow | 3ds Max will read existing cache files from the "Cache Folder". The viewport icon will also change and display the "Cache" text.

RFScene with "Use Cache" disabled (left) and enabled (right)

 

Additionally, the last three buttons from RealFlow | 3ds Max toolbar are shortcuts for the "Cache Simulation" and "Cache Meshes" actions, and the "Use Cache" toggle.

The same three can be found on RealFlow | 3ds Max menu.

RealFlow | 3ds Max toolbar