Quick method for creating vertex/combining elements where two lines intersect

[Anonymous]

As can be seen in the included pictures, I have two elements within an object which intersect and would like to combine them into a single element be attaching them together where the lines intersect. Currently the only way I can see to do it is to add vertices on both lines that intersect (at any point they intersect), move them to the same coordinates (keeping the shape) and welding them together. This method will take considerable time as there are 7 more similar elements (some of different sizes) that are arranged into the shape of a ball. My question to you is: is there a quicker/more streamlined method within 3ds Max that would allow me to achieve the same results whilst saving time? If there is something obvious that you think I should already know, please enlighten me. I'm self taught and only know what I've needed to in order to accomplish previous models.

Thanks in advance for any helpful replies that I get.

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

If the topology of the intersecting objects already line up nicely(like in your first image), then you could probably get away with a Boolean->Union followed by a vertex weld-modifier added on top.

If the edge count is different, or they doesn`t line within a certain tolerance, then i`m afraid you will have to manually weld the vertices after the boolean operation.

Screencast:

http://autode.sk/2AEPRDa

[Anonymous]

Cheers for the reply. Due to time restraints I've had to reduce the complexity of the shape to get it done. What those images didn't really show, something you also pointed out, was that just out of frame/on the far side of the vertical shape none of the edges did line up. This proved true for most of the other intersections I ended up creating, resulting in what I deemed to be too much manual joining. The Boolean->Union definitely does work wonders on more symmetrical shapes and I'll be sure to use it in projects to come. Thank you again.