Rotorhub,
What about a workflow for us? Do we have to totally rebuild a model? Why couldnt we import our model into their sim? Would you export to a Blender format, then from Blender, export into XP format? Surely we can re-use our existing model. (I know nothing about the process... )
I tried going into XP long ago and never got far. I didnt really put all my efforts into it, though.
Also, for some reason, and hopefully its gone now, but there was an existing 'negativity' of XP people (developers) against anyone that was a FS developer. They treated me and other FS people harshly. Maybe/hopefully that is gone now.
X-Plane uses blade element theory for their interpretation of flight dynamics. So for X-Plane to be able to calculate the body forces and surfaces, the dynamics model must be created within the X-Plane enviroment aka PlaneMaker. It has been discussed many times, if models from other platforms could be imported. But I don't know about any tools for this procedure. But I could be wrong...
In regards of workflow, it may seem a little odd that you have to create the plane twice. But you don't. Your PlaneMaker model is a complete aircraft. But since our demand for beatifully rendered aircrafts is endless, the "work around" is to attach the external detailed 3D model to the PlaneMaker model. At least older versions of PlaneMaker did not support the advanced modelling or texture maps that is common today. I have not looked at XP11. I stopped at XP9, and I only did models for my Home Cockpit Project.
The endless discussion of what is the best simulator, is just sad. There is no such a thing. But people get carried away in meaningless arguments. I have noticed this as well. Development communities should welcome any designer that want to do freeware, or commercial development. That is good for all of us. And we will probaly see more content creators, doing mutliple platforms in the future.
Carenado has obviosly found a workflow that support both platforms.
It would be fun to see one of your models in XP. I only have the Learjet, and it is a nice model. Thumbs up and thank you!
For 3D Max export to XP OBJ, have a look at this;
http://steptosky.com/index.php/software/14-3dsmax-x-plane-obj-exporter