Objects moves and coordinates

Support Basics & Interface
1

Hi,
in Blender we can move (grab), rotate, scale … in all the views using the mouse.
I would like to know if it is possible to grab an object to a precise point ?
For example if I want to move an object up to the Z axis, for let’s say 2 “units”, where can I manually enter that “2” number ?
And where can we see the coordinates of an object in Blender ?
TIA.

2

Ok, so I’ve found the transform properties window …
Coords of an object are displayed in a local point of view there, where can I see these coordinates in a global POV ?

3

Local ? I don’t think so, not if your Object is in Object mode: then the Location fields should hold Global values.

To answer your question you can enter values on the keyboard right after hitting the right shortcut for the wanted transformation.
For example, select your Object, hit Gkey, watch that the 3D area header has changed, hit Zkey to constraint the transformation and the header will now read …“along Global Z”. Enter your distance in BU

Jean

4

Thanks !
Yes I was probably mistaking “locZ” for “local Z” in the transform properties window.
Entering values with the numeric keypad doesn’t really work, it only works with the alpha/numeric keypad … any reasons for that ?
What does mean “BU” ?

5

Nope, the numeric pad works here once I’ve hit the wanted transformation shortcuts.
BU = Blender Units

Interestingly enough you can enter a Python expression into any number field like the ones of the transform properties floating panel. Of course one has to know about simple Python but if you do it is quite handy.
For example you could add to the value in LocZ the value of 2.0 (or any other decimal value, even fractions if you know how…) and get your result right away.

Have fun.
Jean

6

Thank you very much !

7

Hey joequartz,
I salvage one helicopter model for you.
http://pages.videotron.com/innocent/helicopter005.blend
It’s not much, mot finished, but you can see how I animated the rotor and the tail ‘fan’. Notice that the wholeChopper empty is what’s most important: it is parent to all the part and allow to have the animation of the Objects relative to the chopper itself rather than relative to the World. It the latter was the case all parts would disassociate themselves from the machine as soon as this one woud begin to fly.

Jean

8

Thanks, but … don’t you mistake me for someone else ?