Collection of Parameter Controller Utilization Techniques
Updated: 02/04/2025
This page compiles techniques for effectively utilizing the parameter controller.
We provide a comprehensive explanation covering common mistakes, potential pitfalls, and advanced techniques for experienced users. Learn practical tips to optimize performance and control efficiently.
For the basic usage of the parameter controller, please refer to the following.
“Basic Operations of the Parameter Controller” (Video Tutorial) Coming soon!
“About the Parameter Controller“
“Controller Target Settings“
Model Structures That Are Easy to Control with a Controller
Align the Amount of Parameter Change with the Amount of Motion Change
The parameter controller searches for the optimal parameter values when controlling multiple parameters simultaneously. By aligning the ratio of parameter change to motion change, it becomes easier to find the optimal parameter values.
When creating movements with large rotations, such as arms or legs, it is recommended to set key values based on the angle. This reduces the computational load during control and makes it easier to achieve smooth motion.
First, set the reference angle at the default position.
Click the [Set Reference Angle] button below the red frame, and the angle value will be replaced with 0 degrees.
In this model, we will set the movement for the left leg to rotate 30 degrees inward and 60 degrees outward.
Adjust the values by entering 30 degrees for the left key and -60 degrees for the right key.
TIPS
It is important to align the amount of parameter change with the amount of motion change, so using a 1/10 scale for angle values is also acceptable.
Example: -30, 0, 60 → -3, 0, 6
Align the Key Values of Related Parameters
When setting angles for movements such as leg rotation, key values may exceed 100.
In the model below, the “Heel Rotation” parameter ranges from -1.0 to 1.0, which is extremely small compared to “Shin Rotation”. This large difference between maximum and minimum values can make it difficult to determine the optimal parameter.
By adjusting the “Heel Rotation“ to match the actual angle values, you can reduce computational load and achieve smoother motion.
If the movement becomes extremely sluggish while operating the controller, check the key values of the related parameters.
Tips for Operating the Controller
How to Select and Edit Overlapping Controllers
When setting a target, controllers may overlap.
You can select overlapping controllers alternately by clicking on them.
Additionally, you can change the linkage with overlapping art mesh controllers using the [Modify] button in the Inspector palette.
How to Check Calculation Units
The final appearance may vary depending on the order in which controllers are calculated.
In this state, the blue target follows the red target, and the yellow target follows the green target.
However, when the yellow target follows the green target, it shifts slightly from the intended position.
The reason the target does not follow the intended position is due to the calculation order of the controllers.
In “Order 2”, the calculation for the yellow target following the green target is performed.
Then, in “Order 4”, the calculation for the blue target following the red target is executed.
As a result, the movement of the green target is affected by the later calculation of the blue target, causing the yellow target to reference the previous position of the green target instead of its updated position.
Since calculations are performed in the set order whenever a controller is moved, you need to change the calculation order to ensure that the yellow target properly follows the green target.
In this case, the [Hint] displays the blue arm1 with a green background.
The green background indicates that the issue can be resolved by changing the calculation order.
By adjusting the order as shown in the diagram below, the controller can follow the intended position correctly.
Additionally, by pressing the [Auto] button in the Calculation Unit Settings dialog, the system will automatically reorder the elements with green-background hints, ensuring that the calculations produce the intended results.
TIPS
The Hint (Green) and Hint (Red) states only indicate that the calculation results are not in the recommended order. However, this does not necessarily mean that the intended motion will not work.
If the motion plays as expected, there is no issue, even if a hint is displayed.
Advantages of Target Following
By making controllers follow each other, you can create a parent-child structure within the animation.
In the model below, the arrow is attached to the bow, and the bow is attached to the left hand using target settings.
Each part only performs simple rotations or movements, while target following enables the control of more complex motions.
Targets can be easily reassigned, making it convenient to experiment and fine-tune animations.
By utilizing target following in this way, you can create flexible motions while reducing the need for rework in modeling.
Creating a Walking Motion
To ensure the legs stay planted on the ground, you need to prepare an art mesh specifically for the target.
For 2D characters, a single target point may be sufficient. However, using separate target models for the toe and heel improves the quality of the motion.
The target model below is designed with parameters for overall movement, rotation, and width adjustment, making it easier to control with the controller.
A simple structure, such as a circle, works well for the target model. However, ensure that the shape allows for easy placement of the controller at its center.
First, load the target model into the animation and align it with the positions of the toe and heel.
Make the legs follow the target and link each controller to the appropriate parameters.
For details on how to set up target following, refer to “Controller Target Settings” in the Parameter Controller guide.
By doing this, you can move the legs together by simply adjusting the target model’s track.
Additionally, it becomes easier to perform movements such as lowering the hips while keeping the feet planted on the ground.
TIPS
When the legs are fully straight, the calculations may not work correctly, preventing the knees from bending.
In such cases, temporarily turn off target following, adjust the legs to a slightly bent position, and then turn target following back on.
In the same way, set a target for the left leg and create a walking animation.
How to Fix Misalignment with the Target
After performing operations such as [Undo], the alignment between the target and the model may become significantly misaligned.
In such cases, moving a key in the timeline or making small adjustments will trigger an update, restoring the correct alignment.
