5
$\begingroup$

I have an object with an array modifier. I animate this array, using empty as “object offset” (like in this tutorial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COCFd_BKqLw ).

Is there a way to bake an array animation (in order to export it to another program later)? I need to save this animation, without the array modifer, which is supported only by Blender.

Thank you in advance!

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
5
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ I have no Idea how could it be done exactly (probably with some python code) but It would be great to know it, so I'm waiting for an answer with you. $\endgroup$
    – Mzidare
    Nov 3, 2016 at 13:29
  • $\begingroup$ @Mzidare Thank you, yes, it would be great and quite usefull! $\endgroup$
    – Rumata
    Nov 3, 2016 at 13:30
  • $\begingroup$ If i understood your question right watch this![enter image description here](i.stack.imgur.com/w21Rt.gif) $\endgroup$
    – atek
    Nov 3, 2016 at 15:18
  • $\begingroup$ I don't think it's possible to simply "bake" an array animation, unfortunately, to export it to other programs, since it usually creates and deforms a lot of new "virtual" geometry (in a procedural way), and in many possible ways. It doesn't just transform or deform meshes. Not an easy task. $\endgroup$
    – m.ardito
    Nov 3, 2016 at 20:23
  • $\begingroup$ Baking an array animation is like applying the modifier when not animated. But why apply a modifier? Normally, you don't do it, so why in an animation? $\endgroup$
    – piegames
    Nov 6, 2016 at 15:07

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
6
+100
$\begingroup$

If the software you want to export it to supports alembic (i know for example that fusion does), you can use this fileformat. It was just added to Blender so it only works in the newest Versions. Exporting it in Blender and importing it again works fine and it bakes the animation to mesh cache (In Blender it then uses the mesh cache modifier). This is also how you can export fluid simulations for example.

Just choose File - Export: alembic (.abc) and configure the options (especially the end frame) enter image description here

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
1
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ That's an amazing trick would never have thought of that one! $\endgroup$
    – piegames
    Nov 7, 2016 at 19:40

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .