Flaps..."Is my 10 degrees your 10 degrees?" (GMAX)

[Guest jetBlue_83]

Well, the question is, when modeling flaps in GMAX, I know that they are keyframe animated. But, how can I be sure (aside from visually) that 10 degrees (or any other flap setting) will actually be 10 degrees? In other words, how can I be sure that the visual representation of the flap settings (the flap surfaces moving) actually correspond to the number of degrees? (I hope this is clear)Thanks for any answers, suggestions, advice...Ramon

[n4gix 4,947]

No, the "normal" animation for flaps is not key-frame animated. All you need to do is use the l_flap and r_flap partnames, and have the pivot point correctly set.However, that said, you can choose to use key-frame animation, and will set the exact flap angle and position for each position, by providing a Rotation and/or Position key for that spot.For "simple flaps" that only rotate around one pivot point, and don't move fore or aft at all, the "standard animation" (non-keyframed) is adequate, since FS will calculate the amount of rotation for you.For more precision, and in cases of complex flap movements, then key-frame animation is the only way to go... :)

[Guest jetBlue_83]

So, you are telling me, that all I have to do is create and name the flaps? I wish I still had the hairs I pulled out of my head!!! Thanks alot for the advice (maybe I will actually make something!!!) ;)

[n4gix 4,947]

>So, you are telling me, that all I have to do is create and>name the flaps? I wish I still had the hairs I pulled out of>my head!!! Thanks alot for the advice (maybe I will actually>make something!!!) ;)If you haven't already done so, go to the office supply store and buy several 3-ring binders (1/2" is fine).PRINT OUT the entire MakeMDL SDK, punch holes in the pages, and put them in one of the binders.Now, you have a hardcopy reference to work from... :)In any case though, look at the handy table entitled "Stock Animation Names (Aircraft Only)""Any part with a part name from the following table automatically uses the corresponding stock animation; you do not have to author a keyframe animation in the input file."l_flapr_flapPlease note that if you DO wish to use keyframe animation, the part names will be different than that used for the "stock animation."

[Guest jetBlue_83]

LOL, you know, I had thought for some reason that the l_flap and r_flap shouldn't be used (why? I dunno) I'll give it a shot though!!