Conversion Validation Checklist

This list summarizes all items required for a well-converted bus, to prevent anything from being forgotten. Even if there isn't a tutorial for everything, don't get discouraged! It is possible to learn by examining the various example mods posted with the blend on busmods.com.

Best Practices for Polygons and Textures

[ ] Polygons: Avoid using more than 300 or 400 thousand triangles for mobile vehicles. Models with 1 million+ will struggle.
[ ] Small Textures: Use smaller textures for details. Parts with solid colors can use 4x4 pixel textures.
[ ] Maximum Texture Dimension: [!IMPORTANT] Do not use any texture above 2048 pixels for mobile (crashes and instability).
[ ] Lite Version: Consider making a Lite version with optimized textures if the PC version uses 4k.

Basics

[ ] Scale: Verify if the scale is correct (1 Blender unit = 1 meter). Width ~2.5m, Height ~3m.
[ ] Mass: Define the mass corresponding to the empty bus (do not add passengers to the GVW).
[ ] Collider: Define a simple collider (Box Collider or convex Mesh Collider with max 256 tris).
[ ] Aero Surface: Configure aero surface at axle positions for stability (aeroforce).
[ ] Preview: Add preview.png image in the folder (16:9 ratio).
[ ] Materials: UseStandardShader=1 or 0. Leave 0 if not configuring individual PBR materials.
[ ] Wheels: Radius and suspension settings in the .wheels file.
[ ] Steering: max_steer_angle in the engine (35 for rigid, 42 for super-articulated).
[ ] Ackerman: [!IMPORTANT] Configure use_ackerman=1 and the position [pos_ackerman] (usually center of the rear axle) for correct turning.
[ ] Engine/Gearbox: Torque curves and gear settings in the engine.
[ ] RPM: Configure max RPM in engine, sounds, and models (needle).
[ ] Sounds: Remove unused sounds. NEVER use MP3, use WAV 44.1 kHz.
[ ] Air Conditioning: Configuration in .ini and loop sound in the door/air region.
[ ] Mirrors: The mirror position must appear in the main camera to update the reflection.
[ ] Smoke: Exhaust smoke emitter position.
[ ] Headlights: Test projectors (mobile/light) and spotlights (PC Ultra).
[ ] Internal Lights: 3 lights for Ultra, 1 central light for Light/Mobile.
[ ] Doors: Door light (texture and real light). Sound of leaking air conditioning when open.
[ ] Cameras: Configure driver camera, passenger, and dummy positions (driver/conductor).
[ ] Animated Dashboard: Buttons, handbrake, blinker, ignition, indicator lights.
[ ] Stop Request: Light on dashboard and in the saloon + sound.
[ ] Optional Sounds: Door opening/closing sound, reverse sound.
[ ] Clickable Buttons: Camera coordinates (C key) for dashboard and air conditioning.
[ ] Turnstile: Position in the middle of the passenger path (for them to stop before passing).
[ ] 3D Sound Position: Configure coordinates in sound txt for spatial effect.

Best Practices for Steering Wheel and Needles

[ ] Centering: Keep the steering wheel aligned with the driver's camera.
[ ] Needle Scale: Rotation is linear. Adjust the dashboard design so intervals (0-20, 20-40) are equal.
[ ] RPM Sync: Max RPM in model txt must match the engine.

Best Practices for Glass and Windows

[ ] Reflections: Use reflections only on the outside (avoids obstructing internal view).
[ ] Z-Fighting: Move reflection slightly away from the rain layer.
[ ] Glass Textures: Use small textures (e.g., 4x4) if no skin is mapped. One light (internal) and one dark (external).
[ ] Rain: Map rain glass with uniform scale. Leave space between glass and rain.

Best Practices for Passengers

[ ] Door Height: Door coordinate at level 0 (street) or platform level (BRT).
[ ] Exit: Do not place _pp_ too close to _waitdoor_ or steps to avoid descending with closed door.
[ ] Turnstile: Coordinate between two points of the path. Place slightly ahead of the visual model.
[ ] Seated: Seat position slightly inward to avoid arms sticking out.

Miscellaneous Animations

[ ] Button Cameras: Configure to facilitate clicking on PC/Android.
[ ] Door Toggler: Button for left/right doors (if any).
[ ] On/Off Buttons: Ensure buttons have both states if animated.

Other Things

[ ] Limiter: Configure speed_limit if necessary.
[ ] Turning Radius: Adjust max_steer_angle and Ackerman if the bus struggles in tight turns.
[ ] Brake: Increase max_brake_torque if the engine is very powerful and the bus doesn't brake well.