topic link sub-objects in 3ds Max Modeling Forum

link sub-objects

Anonymous — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 13:17:06 GMT

Pretty basic question - is it possible to link sub-objects, such as polygons? Example: shelf linked to cabinet side. With normal object to object linking: side moves, shelf moves with it. For sub-object linking: link polygon that is the side of the shelf to the face of the cabinet side. Side moves, shelf grows in width rather than moves. This would be similar to constraints in Inventor, for instance.

Re: link sub-objects

ads_royje — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 13:42:26 GMT

Hi @Anonymous,

You can link sub-object parts to another object using the "Link X-form" modifier.

To use it, do a sub-selection (edit mesh or edit poly) of a face or multiple faces, keep the sub-selection and add a "Linked x-form" modifier.

In the Linked x-form modifier, you choose and external object to link to.

Once set up, moving the external object will have the sub-selection to follow.

You can add as many Linked X-form Modifier on an object, as long as you keep the sub-selection, it will work.

The Modifier Stack should look similar to this :

A 'sandwich' of Edit Mesh (or Edit Poly) + Linked X-form

On the Right side, you can see the sub-selection mode, Faces or Vertices.

Linked x-form works on Meshes, Polys, and Shapes (lines & splines)

You may link 2 meshes sub-object faces to the same external object.

Let me know if this helps or have questions to set up! 🙂

Re: link sub-objects

Anonymous — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 14:21:15 GMT

Linked Xform is a modifier I haven't used before. That is exactly what I was after - thanks so much!

Re: link sub-objects

ads_royje — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 14:23:15 GMT

Glad to read that is what you were looking for!

Thank you for your feedback! 🙂