Path Constraint

After learning the basics of Animating in 3DS Max, we learned how to use Path Constraints. This allows you to use a Line (drawn either in Max itself or imported from an external program such as Illustrator) as a path that an object can follow.

Once you've set an object to use a Path Constraint, you can adjust several options in the Motion panel to customize your animation. For example, you can make the object 'Follow' the path, which will keep the object facing forward along the path at all times, giving a roller-coaster type effect. You can also use 'Bank', which makes the object tilt when it turns. Finally, you can speed up or slow down certain parts of the animation with a combination of Autokey / Set Key and the '% Along Path' scroll.

One great use for Path Constraints is related to Cameras. You can set the Target of a Target camera to have a path constraint, which will make the cameras focus point move along the path, perhaps to follow an object that is also moving along the path (as shown in the video above).

Bouncing Sphere Animation

Learning how to animate in 3DS Max, we learned how to set frames using Autokey and Set Key, as well as how to manipulate the Curve Editor and the Dope Sheet.

Autokey

Autokey is a toggle, which tracks all changes you make to the selected object without having to set each individual keyframe manually. The downside is it is harder to get accurate control over exactly what type of animation you want starting at a specific point.

Set Key

Also a toggle, although in order to create a new keyframe you have to hit the Key symbol located next to the toggle. This gives you greater control over your animation, allowing you to set different types of transformation (Movement, Rotation and Scale) at different starting and ending points.

Curve Editor

The Curve Editor allows you to control aspects of your animation such as easing, creating the 'slow at the top' speed effect for the bounce.

Dope Sheet

The Dope Sheet gives you control over all the objects in your scene, and allows you to change their position, length and type of animation. This can also be done in the Curve Editor, however the Dope Sheet gives a much easier to use interface.