3DS Max - Attaching Objects to Spline

Illusive

I know this is really basic but it's been ages since I've used max and I've totally spaced on how to do this.

I've got a line and want to attach some rings to it so I can make a necklace type thing.

Any help would be very much appreciated.

renderhjs

Tools > "spline array" or something similar (don't have max open, + have not used that one in ages)
it basically lets you duplicate/ instance your object along a spline

Cubik

Spacing Tool
In max 2009
Tools -> Align -> Spacing tool

Shortcut:
SHIFT + I

onionhead_o

nice this will come in handy

Mark Dygert

Illusive wrote: »

I know this is really basic but it's been ages since I've used max and I've totally spaced on how to do this.

I've got a line and want to attach some rings to it so I can make a necklace type thing.

Any help would be very much appreciated.

Skin modifier on the rings, use the spline as a bone. Or use skin warp, pretty much the same thing.

OR
On the spline apply a Spline IK Control this will put non-renderable dummies at each vert of the spline. The dummies control the spline so you're not stuck having to go into vert mode on the spline every time you want to move something. Then you can link (or skin) the rings to the dummies.

OR

Model the necklace flat and straight and use PathDeformWSM and select the spline as the path. Spline IK on the path spline so its easier to move around. I suggest PathDeforming an instance of your necklace that way you can edit the flat piece much easier.

It can get more complex depending on the motion required but if you're just posing it all three of those should do the trick just fine.

renderhjs

just noticed this script today:
http://scriptspot.com/3ds-max/maxcsript-obj2spline-align
Maxcsript: Obj2Spline Align

A script that aligns objects along a path or spline. much more editable than the spacing tool. see how it works here or download complete package (with mini tut).

might be worth a shot