Master Object Creation with Shape Generator and Animation Nodes

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Installation and Setup
3. Creating a Multicolor Grid
4. Driving the Loop with Object Instances
5. Generating Different Object Positions
6. Changing the Shape with the Seed Input
7. Adjusting Material Colors for Each Shape
8. Assigning Material to Objects in Animation Nodes
9. Viewing the Result
10. Conclusion

Animation Nodes: Creating Multicolor Grids

In this tutorial, we will explore the exciting world of shape generators animation nodes and how to use them to create multicolor grids with different random shape objects. We will go step by step, starting from the installation and setup of the animation nodes and gradually diving into the process of generating the desired effects. By the end of this tutorial, you will be able to create stunning multicolor grids using the power of animation nodes in Blender.

1. Introduction

Before we begin, it is important to have a basic understanding of animation nodes and their capabilities. Animation nodes are a powerful tool in Blender that allow you to create complex animations and procedural effects by connecting nodes together. In this tutorial, we will focus specifically on shape generators animation nodes and how they can be used to generate multicolor grids.

2. Installation and Setup

To start, make sure you have the animation nodes add-on installed in Blender. If you don't have it, you can download it from the Blender market or other reliable sources. Once installed, enable the animation nodes add-on in the Blender preferences.

3. Creating a Multicolor Grid

To create a multicolor grid, we will begin with a basic set up from a previous tutorial. Open Blender and click on the small arrow to the left of the animation nodes editor to expand the options panel. Turn off the "Always" option under Auto Execution and select "Tree Changed" and "Property Changed" instead. This will ensure that the scene is only updated when the nodes are changed.

4. Driving the Loop with Object Instances

To generate multiple shapes, we need to use a concept called a "looper setup." Loops allow us to repeat a set of instructions a certain number of times. In animation nodes, loops are driven by a set of input objects. We will use an "Invoke Subprogram" node to create the loop. Set the subprogram type to "Loop" and a new loop input node will appear. This node will drive the loop and create multiple shapes.

5. Generating Different Object Positions

To change the position of the objects dynamically, we need to add an "Object Transforms Output" node and connect it to the object parameter of the mesh object output node. By changing the numbers under the location parameter in this node, we can see the objects change their position. However, currently, all the objects are in the same position and shape. We need to create a new input to drive different object positions.

6. Changing the Shape with the Seed Input

The shape of the objects can be changed by altering the seed input of the shape generator. By adding a "Random Number" node and connecting the index in the loop input node to the seed in the random number node, we can obtain different shapes for each object. The index number changes with each step of the loop, resulting in a different shape for each object.

7. Adjusting Material Colors for Each Shape

To add more visual interest, we can change the material color for each shape. In the shader tab, select an object, click "New," and add an "Object Info" node. This node has a random parameter output, allowing us to change the color randomly based on each object. To change the color, add a "Color Ramp" node and set the drop-downs to HSV. This will create a rainbow effect, with each object having a different color.

8. Assigning Material to Objects in Animation Nodes

Although we have changed the material color, it may not appear on the objects yet. To assign the material to the objects in animation nodes, go back to the layout tab and create a new "Object Material Output" node. Connect the object parameter on the object transforms output to the first parameter on the material output node. In the second parameter, select the material you just created.

9. Viewing the Result

To view the final result, switch to material viewport shading by pressing the button in the top right of the viewport. You should now see random colors assigned to each shape, creating a vibrant and dynamic multicolor grid. Feel free to play around with different settings and values to customize the effect to your liking.

10. Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have explored the exciting possibilities of shape generators animation nodes in Blender. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can create stunning multicolor grids with different random shape objects. Animation nodes offer endless creative possibilities, and mastering them can greatly enhance your animations and visual effects. Experiment, have fun, and unleash your creativity with animation nodes!