Python add-on programmed for the 3D modelling software Blender. The add-on generates a trail of spheres both static and dynamic. The work was done individually as an end of module project.
The add-on has five different parts: path generation, geometry generation (both static and dynamic), delete geometry, select geometry and change material of the trail.
Path generation uses arrow empties with a name and time attribute. It gets the x-axis direction of two arrow empties and interpolates a path using Hermite. It has a tension parameter that allows sharper/smoother turns.
Geometry can be generated in two ways: static and dynamic. The static will remain static when rendered while the dynamic will move along the path simulating a trail. Static and dynamic generation both share several parameters: we can set the geometry to get smaller as objects are generated; control the number of spheres generated; and decide the distance between the first and the last sphere. Dynamic trails add automatically key frames for rendering. We can also decide if the geometry will remain visible to the render at the last key frame.
The final functionalities I implemented along as new needs emerged. Constantly generating geometry over the same path lead to the delete and select parts. You tell the module what path name you want and it selects/deletes all the geometry with that path name. With already the select part created I reached to the conclusion that creating a material from it would not be too complicated, resulting on the change material part.
The final renders show some basic examples using the Blender add-on.