This MAXScript tool allows you to easily drop selected objects onto a chosen surface object in 3ds Max. Objects are positioned so their pivots align vertically onto the surface based on a raycast downwards. Additionally, you can add an adjustable vertical offset and optionally align objects' rotation to match the surface normals for more natural placement.

This script is completely free to use. If you'd like to support the author, you can purchase the extended license!

Features

• Pick any surface object in your scene as the target.

• Drop all currently selected objects onto the picked surface.

• Adjustable height offset to raise or lower dropped objects relative to the surface.

• Optional alignment of object rotation to the surface normal for seamless integration.

Installation

1. Save the script (.ms file) to your preferred 3ds Max scripts folder.

2. Run the script in 3ds Max by dragging the file into the viewport or using the MAXScript menu.

How to Use

1. Pick Surface
   Click the Pick Surface button, then select the surface object in your scene onto which you want to drop the objects. The surface name will display below the button once selected.

2. Select Objects to Drop
   Select one or multiple objects in your scene that you want to drop onto the surface.

3. Set Drop Settings

   • Offset Height: Adjust the spinner to raise (positive values) or lower (zero or negative values) the dropped objects relative to the surface.

   • Align to Surface Normal: Check this box if you want the objects to rotate and align with the surface normal, useful for curved or sloped surfaces.

4. Drop Selected Objects
   Click the Drop Selected to Surface button. The script will cast rays downwards from each selected object's pivot and move it onto the surface with the specified offset and alignment settings.

Notes

• The script requires the surface object to have proper geometry for ray intersection.

• Objects without a valid ray hit will remain in place, and a warning message will be printed in the MAXScript listener.

• Offset values are measured in scene units.

• Rotation alignment works by calculating the angle between the surface normal and the world up vector.