UNDER THE HOOD
POSITIONING TRICKS
Hopefully, you read the chapters about correlation of avatar shape with animations and other influences, as they will directly affect your success in animation positioning.
Now, it is time for some specific [RNP] tips and tricks that, I hope, will make your job easier.
First, we need to establish the term “imaginary zero position” and how to preserve it to provide your customers with the best possible experience.
[RNP] animations are uploaded with a predefined mutual position for multi-avatar animations. That means that there is no need for additional rotation of individual avatars, but most importantly: the uploaded mutual position should be understood as zero, or starting position, and never be disturbed, for whatever reason. That way, you will ensure the user has the least amount of adjusting needed to reach a good individual position.
In short: Imaginary zero position is the uploaded mutual avatar position predefined in the animation program, used as the default starting point for avatars’ positioning.
So, how to achieve that?
1. Use the example/reference model to copy the position setup even before you start. That way, you will already have an ideal starting zero point established.
2. Take off your shoes and remove ankle lock if you use it. A barefoot state is best for animation positioning.
3. Make sure that both (or all avatars involved) are at 0 hover height.
4. Your shapes will affect what you see. If they are an issue, please create similar shapes using the Shape Shifter Helper HUD. It would be easier if we had a scripted way for shape changes, but we don’t. So the Helper HUD will tell you what you need to change in order to adapt.
5. Whatever you see on the screen is not to be changed. Adjust avatar positions according to the object using both (or all, depending on the number of avatars) adjuster prims.
NEVER FORGET: Every change of mutual avatar position will make it harder for your customers to easily achieve their preferred positions, according to their shapes!