The Shaper input of the ExpressionME-L Node allows you to assign a shape to a particles in your simulation. Using this input, you assign the shape of a particle using the shaper_in_set function, set the vertex color of a particle using the shaper_in_vertcol function, and set the first UVW channel of a particle's shape using the shaper_in_uvw function. These functions can be used to create a wide range of visual effects and customize the appearance of your particles.
Global Variables
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| shaper_in_count | Number of shape types available |
| shaper_in_id | returns the index of the input you created (starting with 0 excluding Time and On). |
This function sets or assigns the shape (mesh) of a particle derived from either a StdShape Node or GeomInstance Node.
Calls:
shaper_in_set(pid)
shaper_in_set(pid, type)
shaper_in_set(pid, type, time)
Input:
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| pid | particle id (integer) |
| type | type of the shape (integer) |
| time | animation time of the shape (float) |
The type parameter selects the object ID to be used as shape by the particle. StdShape uses only one object so type needs to be set greater or equal than 0. If the type parameter is less than 0 or omitted, the shape type is defined by the operator.
The time parameter specifies the animation time of the shape. This is relevant for shapes that have multiple frames of animation, such as those specified in the GeomInstance Node.
Output:
| Return | Description |
|---|---|
| scalar | 0: not set, 1: set |
This function sets the vertex color of the specified particle. Setting the vertex color prevents the use of render instancing.
Calls:
shaper_in_vertcol(pid, color[3])
Input:
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| pid | particle id (integer) |
| color | the vertex color to set (vector[3]) |
Output:
| Return | Description |
|---|---|
| scalar | 0: not set, 1: set |
This function sets the first UVW channel of the shape of a particle. Only the StdShape type uses this function. Setting the UVW data will prevent the use of render instancing.
Calls:
shaper_in_uvw(pid, uvw[3])
Input:
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| pid | particle id (integer) |
| uvw | UVW data to set (vector[3]) |
Output:
| Return | Description |
|---|---|
| scalar | 0: not set, 1: set |