centipede movement on a path

[SteelShark]

I am evaluating the usefulness of purchasing TSM2:

 

I'm excited about the new multi-segment features...

 

For a centipede type creature, I understand you can set up the body with segments and multiple legs per segment. However, can you explain what kind of constraints are set up for the segments? I need to have the body follow a path, with each segment bending appropriately (similar to the tank tread issue on the forum). Does the constraint system automatically build this in? If so, great! If not, can I add this constraint after TSM runs?

[anzovin]

Each segment is actually its own stackable spine. You can bend and position the whole assembly like the body of a real multiped.

 

We do have a rigged centipede laying around the studio--I'll ask Morgan to post it here for you to play with.

 

Steve

Anzovin Studio

[Morgan]

Centipede model is attached. We don't have any automated solution for constraining multipeds to a path, but I don't see any reason you couldn't set up constraints on the various TSM-generated controls to get the effect you're looking for.

centipede.zip

[SteelShark]

Thanks,

I'll check it out this weekend.

[SteelShark]

Sold! My order just went in... Waiting for that serial number...

 

Now, all the online literature says don't add a constraint on top of the control bones unless you *really* know what you're doing. So to get this multiped to follow a path, is there a certain controlling bone in each segment that I can assign to the path? I'd mess around myself, but I don't think I *really* know what I'm doing yet...

[Morgan]

Steelshark,

 

You'll want to constrain the mspine controls and possibly the bugleg controls to your path. And that warning might be a bit over-stated, really. Adding constraints to controls shouldn't cause you any unexpected problems. (I.E., a control constrained to a path cannot be animated freely.) Adding constraints to the initial bones that Builder places, or the hidden bones that Rigger adds to make the rigs work, that's going to cause problems. But what you're doing should be fine.

 

-Morgan