Changing the origin point for rotation/array of object

[cadboi08]

Hi

I'm wanting to array with rotation about a central point so that the objects are all radiating from the same point.

How can I change the origin or the pivot point of rotation for an object so that when I rotate it or array (rotation) it is about that point?

At the moment, by default, it is rotating/pivoting from the middle of the object. I clicked a button by accident, which seems to have worked, but what is the proper way to do this? I want to be able to pick a vertex or another point somewhere as the pivot point.

Thank you

[khama]

Well I am using 2006.. but in 2006, I go to a tab at the bottom of the dialog box that says more.. Uncheck the "set to objects default" and enter the cordinates for your new center point. However it will be still symetrical to that point. In reality, I would mark the spot that you want using some lines and just make the center point at those points. Doing an eliptical array? Never tried it, or needed to.. but it is food for thought..

[Ian Ibbotson]

Hi

Your issue is so common that Max has a full command panel tab dedicated to it. Transforming an object around its own pivot point or linking and animating connected to other objects will always need pivot moving functionality. Go to the Hierarchy Panel and look at the available tools. Look at Max help under this subject and you will easily be able to move your pivot in seconds. Also use snap tools to put the pivot exactly where you want it

I would say good luck but you will not need it

Ibbo

[cadboi08]

Thank you both very much for the replies

I used the heirarchy tab, selected 'Pivot', then 'Affect Pivot Only' and then used the move tool to move the pivot point. Seems to have worked perfect.

Then just 'Reset Pivot' to restore defaults.

Cheers