Using After Effects to build a screw path in 3d space can be very difficult for a beginner. Now, I've found a very easy way to create this effect using motion sketch and expressions. I have divided it into two parts. In the first part, we will build a circle in the 2d; and in the second, we will adjust the z axis. OK, let's begin:
PART 1
Create a new comp, and create a 50*50 solid as guide.
Now we will use motion sketch. Open it from window -- motion sketch.
Now, let's draw a circle path ... how many circles? It's up to you. Press Start Capture button and then draw circle in the comp window.
You should draw it slowly to make the path smooth.
OK, this is the first part.
PART 2
In this step, we will adjust the z axis. To adjust it, we should create a null layer and use motion sketch again, but before we use it, we should adjust position x to 0, because I want to use an expression to make null x to become guide layer's z axis.
When you finish drawing it, you can open the keyframe and make the middle keyframe a roving keyframe, and put them as long as time line.
You could also you an expression to write your path
by Martin Woods on Jan 21, 2010
If you make your path using the null object in 3D and then distribute to keyframes and parent the anchor point of another 2D solid you can then apply 2D effects such as the old chestnut particular.
To make a screw in expression try this;
vel1=20; // outward velocity
vel2=40; // rotation velocity
vel3=50; // upward velocity
radius=30; // Radius of the helix's bottom
radtemp=radius+vel2*time; // Radius at a certain time
angletemp=vel1*time; // angle at a certain time
a= -Math.cos(angletemp)* radtemp; // X position
b= -vel3*time; // Y position
c=Math.sin(angletemp)* radtemp; // Z position
[a,b,c]+thisComp.layer("center").position //output the position
Using Motion Sketch to build a Spiral Path in 3D Space
by Aza Allen on Jan 22, 2009
I am totally lost in the 2nd part. Is there any way to clear it up?
Using Motion Sketch to build a Spiral Path in 3D Space
by Aza Allen on Jan 22, 2009
I am confused... at the start of part 2 you say to use Motion Sketch again? Are we supposed to draw another spiral?
Using Motion Sketch to build a Spiral Path in 3D Space
by joe zhangjiajun on Jan 17, 2009
It ia a awesome tutorial,looks beauty.And I want to konw your ideas.For example why you work out that cool effects. Thanks !
