Marking a single transformation parameter produces fcurves for all axes
Symptom
You marked a single parameter from the SRT controls in the Transform panel (such as the object?s X Translation in Local mode). You then save a key for the object in the X axis on a specific frame (or frames). When you open the animation editor, however, you see that three fcurves have been created, one for each axis.
How is this possible considering that you marked a single transformation parameter in Local mode?
Cause
There is a limitation in XSI when you use the Local manipulation mode. By default, when an object is manipulated in Local mode, and a key is set for a single parameter in the same mode, XSI saves a key for all three axes. Local mode manipulation means that the object is relative to its own center, and there are no special parameters to key the effect of animating relative to the object's centre. As a result, a key is set for the entire set of Local transformations of the object. In other words, while in View/Local mode manipulation, the individual channels of the local transform are not selectively marked automatically.
Solution
To workaround this problem, you must individually mark selected parameters associated with the object:
- In the marked parameter list or explorer, expand the Local Transform node under the chosen object, then expand the nodes for Pos, Ori, and Scl (basically any node containing parameters can be marked). Then mark any of the desired X, Y, or Z parameters and set a key.
or
- Open the object's Local Transform property and mark the desired X, Y, or Z parameter(s) in there, then set a key.
or
- If the object is a child, you can mark a single parameter in Parent mode (Par) without having all three fcurves created after setting a key. Because the child object is relative to the parent, a single fcurve is created for the marked parameter. Interestingly enough, if you open the Local Transform property editor of the child and mark a single transformation parameter (such as Translation X) in any Parent transform mode, the same parameter is marked in the Local Transform property editor. Switch from Parent to Local mode and mark any single parameter, and all three transform parameters will be marked.
See also:
Rotation in local mode is different from rotation set in the Local PPG
Applies To: XSI 1.5 on NT,Win2K,Irix
Posted: 4/10/2001
