Animation

This is a tough one. I know that a camera can be linked to a path for animation; so why couldn't an object be linked to a path to animate movement? I am by no means a programmer, but is it possible to do this for AutoCAD? Such a lisp would have a simple structure of commands. I have yet to find one.

Command structure: (This would be for mechanical parts applications)

1. Single Motion Types: (this would be the simplest lisp I think)

````a. Translation along x, y, z, 2 points, or a path

````b. Rotation about x, y, z, 2 points, or multiple specified axes

2. Combined Motion Types:

````a. Translation: rig more than one object to a single path

````b. Rotation: rig more than one object to a specified axis or multiple axes

````c. Note: This type of command could model similar constraints parameters that the STRETCH command uses. When you stretch, say, two joined lines, they still share the same intersection point. These commands should do the same regarding paths and axes of movement.

And that should be it. Microsoft Expression would take care of the rest unless it can be made to output the same way you can do with a camera. Is there anyone who can do this? Thanks.

Please check the solutions from this previous discussion.

Hmm...that discussion seems to be about turning layers off and on and animating that process. How does this help with mechanical motion? O.o

AutoCAD has many features and functions, but for full kinematic control, one must use an 3D animation suite such as Maya Unlimited or 3D Studio Max which provides modeling, texturing, lighting, character rigging, animating, and rendering engines.

You can use AutoLisp to animate objects in AutoCAD, but I would recommend that only for fun. You will have to write a Lisp for each case, for each object -a lot of work. There are specialized programs you can use for animating with professional results.