If you want to change the direction that the object is facing along the motion path, use the following procedure. You will orient the object in relation to the path, and the orientation will be consistent along the full length of the path.
To use twist controls
- Select the object on the path, and open the
Channel Box.
- In the INPUTS section, expand the motionPath node.
The Front, Up, and
Side Twist settings here reflect the object orientation on the path.
- Click the text label for one of the twist settings, then in the scene view, hold down the middle mouse button and move the cursor horizontally from side to side.
The object rotates about one of the axes.
- Test all three of the twist controls to learn their effects; note how the numeric twist settings change as you move the object.
- Use the twist controls to orient the object as you wish in relation to the path.
Tip: With the object in correct orientation, consider setting the numeric twist values to round numbers for ease of use later, especially if you decide to change the object orientation along the path. For example, if one of the twist values is -86.245, set it to -90 and see if that is acceptable.
- Run the animation to check the object alignment.