Complex UV Layout in Maya
Over the last couple of years UV layout in Maya has changed for the better. In this course we're going to be taking a look at some of those changes as we UV map an entire character
# 1 06-12-2003 , 01:41 AM
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Duplicating along a curve?

I'm trying to duplicate geometry along a curve. Is there a way this can be done where i can set how many copies i want made or the spacing and have them duplicate along the path.

# 2 06-12-2003 , 02:28 AM
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I think this is what your looking for....

Take your geometry and attach it to your curve
(as if you were going to animate it along a motion path)
Select the geometry, Edit > duplicate > options >

*check duplicate input graph* duplicate

Then go into the graph editor and select the keys for the second object and offset them in time - The geometry should move along the path.
Repeat as necessary.
*If you need the geometry evenly spaced... just offset all the
keys the same amount*

since you dont need the animation, after your done, delete the history on everything and delete all the curves.


Theres probably a simpler way or a tool I dont know about.

But thats just one of many I'm sure.
Joe


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# 3 06-12-2003 , 02:33 AM
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There is the animation snapshot tool that does basically what cujo said...


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# 4 06-12-2003 , 04:44 AM
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I see where you're going with this but forgive me. I haven't used the graph editor before so i'm wondering how i should "offset the time" If you could newbify that section i'd be greatly appreciative.

# 5 06-12-2003 , 06:46 AM
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I would use/read up on the animation snapshot tool--
(as Kbbrown said)
I havent used it, but It looks a lot easier for what your doin...

As for 'offsetting the time' - You just select the curve, press w for move tool, hold down shift, and middle mouse move the keys
a few frames to the left while watching the viewport. ( so the duplicate geometry's animation starts 'N' frames before the original)

It's definitely worth learning/reading everything about the graph
editor- especially if your gonna animate.
Joe


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# 6 06-12-2003 , 03:46 PM
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Yup, animation snapshot is the way to go. Do a search on it in the manual...it tells you exactly what you need to do.


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