The Deformation->Node/Branch commands in the Model module allow you to deform an object of any type (except a meta-clay system) along a curve or a patch or NURBS surface object.

For more information on creating deformations, see the Deforming by Curves and Surfaces section of the Modelling User's Guide.

Deformation can be applied to a single object (using the Deformation->Branch command).

The Deformation subcommands Create, Deactivate, Reset, Freeze, and Remove are the same for both curves and surfaces in node or branch mode.

This command associates an object to the deforming curve or surface. The selected object is deformed according to the shape of the selected curve or surface and is controlled by deformation transformation.

1. To prevent unexpected offsets of the model, move the deforming surface to its final position and freeze it using the Effect->Transformations command.
2. Select the object you want to deform (any object other than a meta-clay system).
3. Choose the Deformation->Create command.
4. Select the deforming curve or surface.

This command temporarily suspends deformation of the object. It is used when you need direct control over the object's transformation or when you want to manipulate the object's centre or points. Deformation is reactivated by choosing the Create command.

1. Select the object you have deformed.
2. Choose the Deformation->Deactivate command.

This command resets all deformation transformations to the original values set when the deformation was created.

1. Select the object you have deformed.
2. Choose the Deformation->Reset command.

This command breaks the link to the object's associated deformation curve or surface, preserving its current deformed shape. The Freeze command is used when the deformation has been completed and you want to use the object in the "normal" world, as opposed to the deformation world. See Understanding the Deformation World of the Modelling User's Guide.

1. Select the object you have deformed.
2. Choose the Deformation->Freeze command.

This command removes the object from the associated deformation curve or surface and returns it to its original shape.

1. Select the object you have deformed.
2. Choose the Deformation->Remove command.

Last updated 03-apr-1998