Follow Path Constraint

Summary

The Follow Path Constraint allows you to attach an object to a path and move it along that path using a distance percentage. It is highly effective for creating complex motions like orbiting, roller coasters, or guiding UI elements along custom vector shapes.

Step by Step

1. 00:30
   Adding the Constraint

   Select the object you want to guide, click the + button in the Constraints section, and choose Follow Path Constraint.
2. 00:38
   Selecting the Target

   Use the target selector to pick the vector path (open or closed). The object's origin will immediately snap to the path's starting point.
3. 00:57
   Moving Along Path

   Adjust the Distance percentage to slide the object along the path. 0% is the start, and 100% is the end.
4. 01:10
   Changing the Start Point

   Enter vertex editing mode for the path, right-click any vertex, and select Make First Vertex to change where 0% distance begins.
5. 01:35
   Toggling Orientation

   Keep the Orient option checked if you want the object to automatically rotate and follow the path's direction. Uncheck it if you want to animate rotation manually.
6. 02:22
   Origin Offset

   Use the Y key (Freeze Mode) to move the object's origin. This allows you to control which part of the object (e.g., its base) touches the path.
7. 03:55
   Multi-Path Shapes

   If a shape contains multiple paths, the object will jump between them sequentially based on their order in the hierarchy as you increase distance.

Notes About Current Rive

• Origin Focus: The object attaches to the path via its origin point. Proper origin placement is key for realistic "roller coaster" or vehicle effects.
• Hierarchy Order: When targeting a shape with multiple paths, the path order in the hierarchy determines the sequence the object follows.
• Animatable Properties: Strength, Orientation, and Distance are all keyable, allowing for sophisticated motion path animations.