Ayam

Ayam, currently at its latest version 1.20, is an open-source program developed by Randolf Schultz that caters to the 3D Design needs of professionals and hobbyists alike. Categorized under Photo & Graphics, Ayam is specifically designed to work with the RenderMan interface, making it a versatile tool for 3D modeling enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of Ayam is its comprehensive support for various NURBS curves and surfaces, including trimmed surfaces. Users will appreciate the program's ability to handle complex shapes such as Spheres, Disks, Cylinders, Cones, Hyperboloids, Paraboloids, and Torus, among others. The program also supports CSG, MetaBalls, Patch Meshes, Polygonal Meshes, and Subdivision Surfaces, making it incredibly flexible for diverse modeling tasks.

Ayam offers robust scripting interfaces, including Tcl and JavaScript, which enable users to extend the program's functionality through custom scripts. Additionally, the application supports numerous file formats for reading and writing, such as RIB, DXF, 3DM, 3DMF, OBJ, and X3D, enhancing its utility in various workflows.

For those worried about compatibility, Ayam supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11, ensuring that it is accessible to users on almost any modern Windows platform. The program, available for free download, can be easily obtained by users who need its extensive features without the burden of licensing fees.

Another notable aspect is Ayam's ability to handle RIB (RenderMan Interface Bytestream) export and import, making it an excellent choice for those working within the RenderMan ecosystem. Custom objects can also be dynamically loaded at runtime, offering a customizable experience for users who require specific functionalities.

In summary, Ayam 1.20 is a highly capable and versatile 3D Design tool that integrates smoothly within the RenderMan interface. Users looking for a free, open-source solution will find Ayam to be a powerful asset in their workflow, thanks to its wide-ranging support for operating systems and extensive features.

Pros:

• Robust support for various NURBS curves and surfaces.
• Comprehensive file format compatibility.
• Scripting support with Tcl and JavaScript.
• Free and open-source, making it accessible to all users.
• Compatibility with a wide range of Windows operating systems.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve for beginners.
• Limited to the Windows platform despite wide OS support within that family.

You may want to check out more software, such as Smart Map, graphite or Drawing Register Professional, which might be similar to Ayam.