Direction

The Constraint->Direction command in the Actor and Motion modules constrains the x-axis of one or more selected objects to another object, without changing the location of the objects. The
x-axis of each constrained object always remains facing the centre of the constraining object.

For more information about animating using constraints, see the Constraints section of the Animating User's Guide.

Procedure

1. Select the objects to be constrained.
2. Choose the Constraint->Direction command.
3. Pick the object that is to act as a constraint.
   
   The constraining object flashes red. The constrained objects rotate so that their x-axes face the constraining object's centre.
   
   By default, a dotted line appears between the constraining and constrained objects to show the direction of the constraint and to make repositioning simpler. The dotted line can be hidden with the Constraint->Show Direction command.
   
   
4. Translate either type of object as desired.

If the constraining object is translated, the constrained object responds by rotating so that its x-axis remains facing the constraining object. If the constrained objects are translated, they also rotate so their x-axes always face the constraining object.

The rotation of the constrained object around its x-axis can be modified and keyframed by changing its x-axis rotation value (known as the "roll" angle of the object). The Rotation menu cells, however, continue to display the rotation values of the object in global or local coordinates.

Tip:

The Up Vector constraint can be further used on the constrained object to control the "roll" or up direction of the object. See Constraint->Up Vector for more information.

Last updated 03-apr-1998