Length Modifier 

 

Videos 

 

Overview 


Length modifier (left to right): not applied, applied with a random factor of 0.5, applied with a fractal noise map controlling the length

The Hair Length operator is used to parametrically or manually change the length of hair strands in your groom. You can both shorten and extend strands, making this a versatile tool for adjusting hair length. The operator works with both guide strands and dense hair models. You can control hair length either through a random factor, or through a monotone texture map. Texture map will use the UV coordinates or world coordinates of the hair (whichever ones are available).

When extending strands, the Curved Extension option helps maintain natural-looking results by preserving the curved shape of the strands rather than creating straight extensions.

 

Parameters
 

  • Length
    Multiplier for strand lengths. Value of 1 means the length remains the same. Values less than 1 shorten the strands, while values greater than 1 extend them. For example, 0.5 means the strands will be half as long, and 2.0 means they will be twice as long.
  • Use Scaling
    When on the strand length will be changed by uniformly scaling all points on the strand, preserving its overall shape.
  • Use Absolute Length
    When on, set absolute strand length value in world units instead of a scaling factor.
  • Curved Extension
    When on, strands are extended in a way that preserves their curved shape, producing a more natural look. This option is particularly useful when lengthening strands to avoid an artificial straight appearance.
  • Scale Width
    When on, the width values of the hair will be adjusted based on how the strand lengths are changed.
  • Minimum Length
    After applying randomization and maps the value will not be allowed to be lower than this parameter. Use this to clamp the size of short strands.
  • Maximum Length
    After applying randomization and maps the value will not be allowed to be higher than this parameter. Use this to clamp the size of long strands.
  • Randomize
    Determines how random the relative hair length should be. A value of 0 leaves hair as it is, a value of 1 completely randomizes hair length.
 

Length Brush 

The Length operator functionality is also available as a brush tool within the Edit Guides operator. The Length brush includes the same Curved Extension option, allowing you to interactively extend or shorten specific strands while maintaining natural curves during the grooming process.

 

MaxScript Access 

You may use standard properties exposed by showProperties myModifier to access and change this modifier.

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