CE Tool Bar - Node Type

RealFlow offers a total of four different node type settings, which are available from the appropriate buttons. 

Set Selected Points Type to TCB

TCB controllers produce curve-based animations very similar to Bezier controllers. However, they do not use adjustable tangent handles. They use fields to influence “Tension”, “Continuity” and “Bias” (=TCB) of the animation curve. TCB is the standard mode with animation keys.

Set Selected Points Type to Bezier

A “Bezier” curve is modelled using a parametric polynominal technique and it can be defined by an unlimited number of vertices. Each vertex is controlled by two other points (or handles) to adjust the endpoint tangent vectors. “Bezier” handles can be manipulated with their tangent helpers: click on the round end of a “Bezier” tangent helper and drag the mouse to change its curvature.

Set Selected Points Type to Linear

This is the “easiest” mode and does not provide any arguments or tangents. The keys are just connected with straight lines. The curve between linear keys shows edges and peaks, and changes between values might be abrupt. It is not suited for smooth transitions between several values or ease in and ease out to create delays.

Set Selected Points Type to Stepped

“Stepped Node” specifies a stepped tangent to create a curve whose outgoing tangent is a flat curve. The curve segment is flat (horizontal) and the value changes at the key without gradation. To create a stroboscope effect, for example, you would use a step tangent.