Dynamic Constraints

Dynamic Constraints

Quicktime Example

Sample Animation:Master Project

Dynamic Constraints allows a limb, or chain of bones to animate automatically using dynamic simulation.

Add Bones for Dynamic Constraint

In this example, we added an antenna to the Thom model and created a chain of 3 bones that control the Control Points (CPs) of the antenna.

Select Last Bone in Chain

From the Action you are creating, select the last bone in the chain that you want to add the dynamic constraint to.

Add Dynamic Constraint

Right click (Ctrl click on the Mac) on the selected bone and pick [New Constraint] [ Dynamic Constraint].  Now as the model animates the antenna will animate automatically.

Dynamic Constraint Properties

From the Dynamic Constraint's properties you can change the Stiffness of the dynamic chain.  Stiffness controls how stiff the dynamic chain acts.  At 100%, it is a completely stiff rod. It won't flex at all.  At 0%, it does not resist bending at all. It is completely limp.  As long as this value is not 0% then the chain will try to achieve its original position as modeled.

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