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Arn Sweatman
Inspiring
May 23, 2019
Answered

attaching null to a point

  • May 23, 2019
  • 2 replies
  • 7589 views

I've been searching, but can't  fine the solution.

I want to create a Null at the end of a shape layer.    Then parent graphic to the end point of a shape layer/path.   An example would be adding a brick at the end of a rubber hose arm.

thx in advance.

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    Correct answer Warren Heaton

    If you're using Create Nulls from Path, the Contents of the Shape Layer needs to be a Path (not a Rectangle, an Ellipse nor a Polystar) and the "Path" parameter needs to be selected when you click "Nulls Follow Points".

    1. Choose Window > Create Nulls From Path.
    2. Select the Path parameter.
    3. Click Nulls Follow Points.

    You should be good to parent your brick artwork to which ever resulting Null layer is at the end point of the path.  You can delete any unused Null Layers.

    The path can be open or closed.

    If you happen to need a rectangle, ellipse or polystar, you can draw one in Illustrator and copy and paste that to the selected Path parameter.

    -Warren

    2 replies

    Warren Heaton
    Community Expert
    Warren HeatonCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    May 23, 2019

    If you're using Create Nulls from Path, the Contents of the Shape Layer needs to be a Path (not a Rectangle, an Ellipse nor a Polystar) and the "Path" parameter needs to be selected when you click "Nulls Follow Points".

    1. Choose Window > Create Nulls From Path.
    2. Select the Path parameter.
    3. Click Nulls Follow Points.

    You should be good to parent your brick artwork to which ever resulting Null layer is at the end point of the path.  You can delete any unused Null Layers.

    The path can be open or closed.

    If you happen to need a rectangle, ellipse or polystar, you can draw one in Illustrator and copy and paste that to the selected Path parameter.

    -Warren

    Arn Sweatman
    Inspiring
    May 23, 2019

    Thanks Warren.      This works mostly; but the bezier handles are now disabled.  =\

    Warren Heaton
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    May 23, 2019

    Hmmm.  When you say that the Bezier handle are disabled, are they showing when you select a vertex and then you can't click and drag them to change the shape of the path?  Or are the handles not showing at all when the vertex is actively selected?

    I'd try the Convert Vertex tool.  Click and drag away from a vertex and the handles should be available.  Of course, once you have the type of vertex point that you want (smooth or corner), switch back to the Selection Tool.

    Mylenium
    Legend
    May 23, 2019

    Read up on how to use the various "Create Null from Mask" features that use expressions to connect to paths and masks.

    Mylenium