Subject: Re: Pffffft...
Date: Sun, 29 May 1994 15:42:47 -0700 (PDT)
From: Ed Totman <etotman@gort.ucsd.edu>

On Fri, 27 May 1994 kirvan@SSESCO.com wrote:

<stuff deleted> 
> Now, turn on constraints. Switch to object mode, and rotate the disk around
> Y - voila - you should get the piston moving properly.  Now use states to 
> come up with tween positions (the transformation requester can be used to 
> get the rotation angle precise).
> 
> The group needs the parent axis because the parent object is automatically
> frozen, and I don't think you can rotate it.  Also, you will have to create 
> a lot of tweens, because the constraint info isn't used in animation, and 
> the piston will take short cuts between key frames.

Au contraire, Imagine DOES use constraints in animation.  I've already
created several representations of complex mechanical systems including a
backhoe (tractor scoop) semi-complete with hydraulic pistons and a steam
locomotive drive assembly.  What's great about this is that one can use
constraints in combination with local translation and positioning to align
various parts like the piston and cylinder.  Also, I created the drive
assembly with only 4 states defined. 

One problem I see is that the constraints information is not saved with 
the object for future editing.  It IS animated correctly but not saved.  
This can be a major problem with complex movement.  Am I missing a step?

Thanks for the mini tutorial, got me going in the right direction!

Ed Totman
etotman@gort.ucsd.edu




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