| Using Constraints to model different
shapes and behaviours in X-Topology Curves |
The following illustration demonstrates the versatility of X-Topology
Curves and their constraints. X-Topology Curves start out as ordinary
BSpline Curves but by applying the constraint tools, found under
the Right-Click menu, different shapes can be applied to the curve.
These shapes stay in the curve and update as it is manipulated until
the user removes the constraint again using the Right-Click menu.
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The initial curve we will use in this example starts out as a standard
uniform BSpline curve but will compose of multiple BSpline segments,
which may be non-uniform, following the application of constraint
relationships. The curve is drawn exactly the same as any other
curve, instigated from the Create menu. However, it does have some
additional dynamic snapping features which are demonstrated in the
example here.
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All Curve constraints are accessed from the right click menu. Either
select a single, pair or range of points for different options to
be available to you. |
In this example a knuckle constraint has been applied to the selected
point nearest the mouse cursor. |
A straight segment constraint has been subsequently applied to the
pair of points following the knuckle point in the previous image.
|
A blend constraint has been applied to the pair of points nearest
the mouse cursor. |
In this example, the previous constraints have been removed and
points 3 to 6 have been made interpolation points.
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The previous constraints have been removed, and the cubic spline curve
constraint applied. |
This image illustrates the Polyline constraint. |
Behind the scenes, the curve is still made up of a number of non-uniform
bspline curves. The control polygon of these curves can be displayed
using the right click menu, Right-Click -> X-Topology Curve ->
Show Control Polygon. This image show the control polygon for the
Cubic Spline Curve example. |
This image shows the control polygon when points 3 to 6 were interpolation
points. |
