Parameters
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Shape along path node maps any geometry source along the curve of a path source. It can stretch a single shape to fit the path, or repeat it multiple times.
Parameters
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
Label | Display name |
Mode | How geometry is mapped onto the path. |
| Treat all input shapes as a single group or distribute individual shapes (e.g. from Shape Mixer). | |
Shapes order | How to cycle through the input shapes. |
Seed | Randomize the shape selection order. |
Deform shape | If enabled, bends the shape to follow the path curve. If disabled, keeps the shape rigid and only rotates it. |
Count | Exact number of copies. |
Spacing | Extra space between repeated items. |
Offset | Slide geometry along the path. |
Normal offset | Distance away from the path center. |
Vertical alignment | How the geometry sits on the path line. |
Scale | Scale of the geometry pieces. |
Reverse | Flip the direction of the path mapping. |
Source
Target
shapeAlongPath
Source
The path curve that defines the trajectory.
Target
The shape(s) to move along that path.
Modes
- Repeat (Fit): Repeats the shape along the path based on the shape’s width plus a
Spacingvalue. It fills the path as much as possible. - Repeat (Count): Repeats the shape exactly
Counttimes, distributing them evenly along the path length. - Stretch to Fit: Stretches a single instance of the geometry to cover the entire length of the path.
- Single: Places a single instance of the geometry at the start (modified by
Offset).
Geometry Options
- Deform Geometry: When enabled (default), the shape bends to conform to the curvature of the path. When disabled (Rigid mode), the shape remains straight but rotates to align with the path’s tangent at its center. Rigid mode is useful for mechanical objects like chain links or vehicles.
- Composite Input: When enabled, all input shapes are treated as one large object. When disabled, the node treats input shapes as variations (e.g from a Shape Mixer) and can cycle through them sequentially or randomly.
Tips
- To create a chain, use Repeat (Fit) with a
Spacingslightly smaller than 0 to overlap links, and disable Deform Geometry. - Styles (Fill, Stroke, Effects) are inherited from the source geometry.
- Use the Normal Offset to float the shape above or below the path line.