Create an nParticle Transform constraint

Create a Transform constraint to hold nParticle objects in place or move them through XYZ space.

For example, you can make a Transform constrained nParticle object follow its animated nCloth or passive object through the scene by parenting its Transform constraint locator to the nCloth or passive object.

To create an nParticle Transform constraint

  1. In the scene view, select the nParticle object you want to constrain.

    If you select the nParticle object, all of the nParticle object’s particles will be Transform constrained. To constrain selected nParticles, use the Component menu.

  2. In the FX menu set, select nConstraint > Transform > .
  3. In the Create Transform Constraint Options Box, click Create Constraint or Apply.

    The nParticles you selected are now constrained to their current positions in XYZ space, and a Transform constraint locator is created for the selected nParticle object.

    The nParticle object you selected are also now connected to the object’s Maya Nucleus solver through a dynamicConstraint node.

    The preset properties on the dynamicConstraint node determine the constraint’s type (in this case, a Transform constraint) and how it behaves. For example, you can create a Transform constraint with the following attribute settings:

    • Spring as the Constraint Method
    • All to First as the Component Relation
    • Component Order as the Connection Method

    See dynamicConstraintShape.

  4. (Optional) Parent, animate, or constrain the Transform constraint locator to another object for additional control over your nParticle object’s movements. For example, you can animate the Transform constraint locator of a Transform-constrained nParticle cloud to direct its movements as it drifts through the air.

Related topics

Parent topic: Control nParticles using nConstraints