DiyLightAnimation
Software => Nutcracker: RGB Effects Builder => Topic started by: smeighan on April 25, 2012,
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Lets use this thread to accumulate effects you would like to see incorporated into The Nutcracker.
Best for me is if you include a video link and tell me the effect and the timing mark in the video.
thanks
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I'd like a "fade" effect. maybe a checkbox for fade-in from black, and another check for fade-out to black... or better a time period for each.
I expect that I'll transition from one effect to another, and I worry that it will be jarring to the observer.
i suppose its unneeded if you use LSP or another editor to provide transitions in the gaps between Nutcracker effects.
BUT, if nutcracker eventually offers a "direct to xLights" format, then it will be unnecessary to even purchase another sequencing solution for your tree.
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I'd like a "fade" effect. maybe a checkbox for fade-in from black, and another check for fade-out to black... or better a time period for each.
I expect that I'll transition from one effect to another, and I worry that it will be jarring to the observer.
i suppose its unneeded if you use LSP or another editor to provide transitions in the gaps between Nutcracker effects.
BUT, if nutcracker eventually offers a "direct to xLights" format, then it will be unnecessary to even purchase another sequencing solution for your tree.
Yep, we certainly have fades.
I have to design for all 3 sequencers.
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Hi Sean,
Can effects be created for RGB window frames?
I would assume the end user would need to enter the number of nodes for two sides (like top and one side). To allow for a square or rectangle window.
Thanks
Rick R.
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As I prepare to build additional Coroflakes, I have wondered about how effects would be applied to my target model. Since a tree is basically a grid laid over a conical surface, would I just use the tree's (or ray's) target model as a starting point until I import the geometries that describe my coroflake pixels?
Even then, I think the effects mighy be missing... the effects that I think would be well-suited to a circular arrangement of pixels are more along the line of spirals, moving concentric circles the emit from a center point, or moving 'spokes' that rotate around that center point.
...just planting seeds to see if any take root.
question: are there similar effects already available for the matrix model?
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My window frames are one continuous string and I have 4 of them across the house all identical in size. I'm thinking I could create a "tree" with 4 strings and use effects like meteors, snowfall, etc. This config would not do much with spirals or butterfly type stuff though.
Hi Sean,
Can effects be created for RGB window frames?
I would assume the end user would need to enter the number of nodes for two sides (like top and one side). To allow for a square or rectangle window.
Thanks
Rick R.
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As I prepare to build additional Coroflakes, I have wondered about how effects would be applied to my target model. Since a tree is basically a grid laid over a conical surface, would I just use the tree's (or ray's) target model as a starting point until I import the geometries that describe my coroflake pixels?
Even then, I think the effects mighy be missing... the effects that I think would be well-suited to a circular arrangement of pixels are more along the line of spirals, moving concentric circles the emit from a center point, or moving 'spokes' that rotate around that center point.
...just planting seeds to see if any take root.
question: are there similar effects already available for the matrix model?
Hi Steve;
As u know the nutcracker effects all are created two different ways
1: I model rgb device and use a math equation to findthe nearest pixel.
Spirals
2: develop a math function that returns a value based on x,y parameters
Butterfly
3: just base effect off of strand and pixel.
Meteors, snowstorm,animated gifs,garlands
I am trying to create more effects using methods 2 and 3 because they don't care about the physical dimensions.
So. ...
Meteors, for example, just needs strands and pixels to work. No x,y,z locations are used. Build a target model that takes your device and maps it into nutcracker strands and pixels and the effects work.
Having said all that, I do plan on building effects specifically ozone web targets
A) if I get the budget, I want to build a coro from holiday coro. If I do get one of those, I will creeate a whole effect class that will optimize effects just for the star
B) I want to build rgb arches. If I do ( time and money) I will createanothereffect class just for arches. I am thinking of linking multiple arches together and sequencing them as on unit.
C) i want to build frames around my windows, if I do I will add another effect class for them.
Others I was thinking of adding to was a Marty fan, poles, snowfall tubes
Thanks
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Wow, all those things would be great!
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I like to see CANADA flag Thank
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A couple of effects that would be nice to see.
- a standard spin by color with or without a background or second color
- a random effect that would just make some percentage of the bulbs turn on and off randomly for a period of time probably could include a percentage of bulbs lit at any given instant and maybe a background color. Picture a green tree with random twinkling colors in it.
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Jim,
Both your suggestions are good ones. I agree especially with #1. This is standard mega tree 101 effect that most use with dumb string effects (which I think you are asking to mirror). #1 would be more complex than a standard dumb tree though, for example should include things such as number of 'strings' to use, number of 'legs' for the spin, direction of spin, color start and color end so you can have them go from one color to the next over time, fades, 3d effect, etc.)
#2 should not be that difficult to build as it incorporates things already built (aka twinkling effects and background color algorithms).
Kurt
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#1 is still possible and pretty easy in hybrid mode. Just use the first 3 channels for the strings. That is what I am doing at least, but I agree, it would be nice to have it as an option as it would make doing the colors easier with the integrated color picker he has.
Thanks,
-Keith
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The problem with hybrid mode is that you then have to make a lot of adjustments because of having the first channel in front of all the others and trying to use the standard effects of spirals, garlands etc. Maybe once start channel is fully implemented that could be a possiblity. I used hybrid mode last year as a way to get my old sequences running and then began updating some of them to full RGB mode, but I see a lot of problems trying to use hybrid mode with Nutcracker for this year. Any way this discussion is off topic for this thread.
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What I did was create my channels without the hybrid channels included. I did this with Emmanuel's plugin - Tree Profile Addin. This creates the channels without the extra 3 channels per string. So my sequence starts out with the extra 3 channels per string at the beginning grouped together and then I add the individual nodes using the plugin after them. This allows for both node and string mode programming and allows you to insert nutcracker effects correctly. Then just reorder the outputs to place the string mode channels before the appropriate string/nodes when done. Hopefully that make sense.
-Keith
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Sean, on the online home page for nutcracker you show two examples of vertical bands. But I can not find them in the gallery to copy or any info on how to create them. They would be a good start for straight up and down vertical chases that I would love to play with. Can you provide info or copy to my library (123). Thanks
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I'd like to see a choose of font sizes on the text effects. 5 x 9 works on some matrixes, but on larger ones it's small. Also an option to only show one row and not two would be nice for those with smaller/wider matrixes.
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I'd like to see a choose of font sizes on the text effects. 5 x 9 works on some matrixes, but on larger ones it's small. Also an option to only show one row and not two would be nice for those with smaller/wider matrixes.
i have a larger font ready, about twice as big. just need time to finsih.
one row vs two is already there.
put nothing in the second text line and you will just see one row. you can center that 1 row in the middle of your tree.
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Since LSP doesn't do well with text on a matrix, I'm using nutcracker. The only problem I have is my matrix is 35 x 48 so 9 pixel high letters are short. Sounds like your bigger letters might be dead on using two lines :)
Thanks again Sean for your time!
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Hi Sean,
Just a couple of ideas bouncing around inside my head. I think they will be difficult to put into words but here it goes...
Spirals are great but on a flat matrix they are just vertical lines. What about a 'spiral' effect, or maybe its a pinwheel, that starts at some point, center by default but possibly user selected or even random, and spins a number of lines around that point. Bonus points if the lines can start by drawing from the initial point to the edge and then turn. Additional bonus points if they can wipe to fill the entire model (similar to my idea below).
Next, I like spirals but I would like to see the ability to have the width of the spiral grow and shrink and even stop rotation. Thinking on the flat matrix as that seems easier for me to visualize. This would be a vertical line that gets thicker or shrinks.
For the bars effect offer more direction choices so the bars can move diagonally.
While I have been typing I started thinking that an iris effect could be very cool. Either center in or center out.
Anyways just bouncing ideas around. Love the tool!
frank
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Hi Sean,
Just a couple of ideas bouncing around inside my head. I think they will be difficult to put into words but here it goes...
Spirals are great but on a flat matrix they are just vertical lines. What about a 'spiral' effect, or maybe its a pinwheel, that starts at some point, center by default but possibly user selected or even random, and spins a number of lines around that point. Bonus points if the lines can start by drawing from the initial point to the edge and then turn. Additional bonus points if they can wipe to fill the entire model (similar to my idea below).
Next, I like spirals but I would like to see the ability to have the width of the spiral grow and shrink and even stop rotation. Thinking on the flat matrix as that seems easier for me to visualize. This would be a vertical line that gets thicker or shrinks.
For the bars effect offer more direction choices so the bars can move diagonally.
While I have been typing I started thinking that an iris effect could be very cool. Either center in or center out.
Anyways just bouncing ideas around. Love the tool!
frank
all good ideas and none are very difficult to implement.
i have these things first
1) build megatree this weekend
2) finish coro star with 60 rgb elements
3) finish 16x128 strings for eaves, windows and arches
4) get my edm transmitter and antenna setup
5) sequence some songs
and then
6) fix 2 color spiral when speed less than 1. when speed is below 1 second color drops to black. Your barberpole becomes RED/BLACK instead of RED/WHITE
7) fix direction in single strand effects. after save, goes back to right
8) Create horizontal matrix. People have built horizontal matrix (before nutcracker came out). They cant really use it until i get them a target model
9) Make sure projects is rock solid. This is going to get used alot by me.
10) make project copy. i will want this so i can get copies of songs others have done. this copy will copy all of the effect sused on a song and all of the phrase markings.
and then
add new effects, these will probably happen the last two weeks before christmas (stretch goal)
11) U have a font for text that is twice as big as todays font.
12) Add random color sparkles to single strand.
13) Add effect that has effect start on one segment and continue going to the next
14 add effects that are mentioned in this thread
and then, after christmas
15) Make mega project where megatree, eaves, windows and arches are all shown in the project editor.
16) much more
so, this weekend i will try and get my hardware to start to get put out. This next week i will build arches, windows and eaves.
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Sounds crazy overambitious! I wish you much luck in these endeavors.
I am by know means demanding these features :) Just want to get the ideas on 'paper' while their fresh.
Frank
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Sounds crazy overambitious! I wish you much luck in these endeavors.
I am by know means demanding these features :) Just want to get the ideas on 'paper' while their fresh.
Frank
Please put all ideas here. some might sonud hard, but they are actually only a few hours.
sometimes i go and create new effects to take a break from bug fxes and soldering.
please , post any ideas. this way i have a written record of the requests.
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Sean, looking back above a few posts, did you get time to add different font sizes?
11) U have a font for text that is twice as big as todays font.
Thanks!
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Sean, looking back above a few posts, did you get time to add different font sizes?
11) U have a font for text that is twice as big as todays font.
Thanks!
It is on my short list since my current text is only 9" high on my 15' megatree. 7 pixels * 1.3" = = 9" high letters. CAnt be seen from the street.
Ths issue is my flex strips are so close. rgb strings have 3" spacing so one row of text is 27" high.
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Did a quick scroll through and haven't seen this mentioned anywhere ... What about a synthesizer effect?
Trying to do this in vixen right now for the beginning of a song with a nice bass beat pattern
Much harder to do since I have folds in my strings
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Sean, on the online home page for nutcracker you show two examples of vertical bands. But I can not find them in the gallery to copy or any info on how to create them. They would be a good start for straight up and down vertical chases that I would love to play with. Can you provide info or copy to my library (123). Thanks
I am not sure if you are asking for this effect jnealand, but I would love to see a 'chase' effect of a vertical bands. What I envision is dividing my matrix into a series of bands (lets say 2 strings of 25 X 8 bands -- my matrix is 16 X 25). Then I could chase these in options like top-bottom to bottom - top : top-bottom to top-bottom : bottom-top to top-bottom : bottom-top to bottom-top. The chase would flash a square of light up the band in the pattern chosen with a defined tail for the decay. I guess you would need direction as well (left to right or right to left) and of course all the wonderful color and sparkle options that you have always provided.
Checkboard effect would be cool as well (I use a matrix so this one of the effects I have created and used outside of nutcracker). Again as an add-on to the band concept, this would subdivide the matrix into smaller squares. For example my 16x25 matrix could be subdivided into 16 - 4 X 4 squares (4 pixels down for strings across). The effects applied to squares could be left-right wipe, right-left wipe, top-bottom wipe, bottom-top wipe, random squares (like sparkle it would randomly light up each square), etc.
Kurt
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Would it be possible to create an arch effect that would allow you to create an arch that chases (bounces) back and forth during a preset time (beat) interval
Further would it be possible to create a chasing arch effect that would move a number of pixels from one end of a row of arches to the other end over a set period of time such as across 1 to X number of beats.
Some of my arch manual effects are such as bouncing each arch back and forth to the beat, chasing a segment across X number of arches and back, etc.
I can provide videos of examples if you like.
Thanks,
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Yes I agree
It would be great is we can have a lot more Single String Manipulation, I know Sean had complex strings to meet his needs this year but if the developed "Portfolio" approach (i.e. multi strings/projects merged together) we can get back to the real benefit of SS, i.e. true arch simulation/ping pong/binary counting/abacus simulation etc.
Great work in 2012 can't wait for 2013 developments
Would it be possible to create an arch effect that would allow you to create an arch that chases (bounces) back and forth during a preset time (beat) interval
Further would it be possible to create a chasing arch effect that would move a number of pixels from one end of a row of arches to the other end over a set period of time such as across 1 to X number of beats.
Some of my arch manual effects are such as bouncing each arch back and forth to the beat, chasing a segment across X number of arches and back, etc.
I can provide videos of examples if you like.
Thanks,
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Yes I agree
It would be great is we can have a lot more Single String Manipulation, I know Sean had complex strings to meet his needs this year but if the developed "Portfolio" approach (i.e. multi strings/projects merged together) we can get back to the real benefit of SS, i.e. true arch simulation/ping pong/binary counting/abacus simulation etc.
Great work in 2012 can't wait for 2013 developments
Would it be possible to create an arch effect that would allow you to create an arch that chases (bounces) back and forth during a preset time (beat) interval
Further would it be possible to create a chasing arch effect that would move a number of pixels from one end of a row of arches to the other end over a set period of time such as across 1 to X number of beats.
Some of my arch manual effects are such as bouncing each arch back and forth to the beat, chasing a segment across X number of arches and back, etc.
I can provide videos of examples if you like.
Thanks,
Yes, this is all planned.
More than half of my displ;ay will be single strand effects (arches, windows, eaves, candles, snowflakes, coro stars, fire poles). I will greatly expand the library of effects for single strand.
stay tuned for 2013. Also on my wish list is a wiki page or a users manual.
improving the ease of using nutcracker. it is still way too technical. it takes work to make it easy and full featured.
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+1 for a users manual!
duane
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Shawn is about to do a beginners video during his next training on Thursday.
I would also like to put in the mix for elements a spinner effect.
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One thing I miss with using RGB is the ability to have multiple colors on at the same time. My fix for that was to turn every other bulb an alternate color, i.e., red, green, red, green and on and on. I have done that for my windows and it works, but it was a pain to program. So an option to mix bulb colors would be nice two colors would work, three different colors would be even better. ie. red and green, green and blue. red, white and blue. Just something more to add to your list.
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Not sure if it does this.
A way to gather some many nodes for each channel within a one SSC. Have Multi channels within one a SSC.
But hooked together with more then one SSC.
So you can have 5 channels within on smart string. And have total of two. There by having ten channel total.
And have as many string and each string have as many channels as you want.
But a way to use separate channels. Each channel having different effect. Simpler then vixen.
You could have a effect bank that every one adds to.
Have a picture on the subject like vixen.
Smaller light lines with more realistic matching in size. Seeing the nodes blinking.
Maybe you make it go night time in shades of darkness but see the subject like it was real.
O no my heads ready the explode. I'm think to much now. lol
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Not sure if it does this.
A way to gather some many nodes for each channel within a one SSC. Have Multi channels within one a SSC.
But hooked together with more then one SSC.
So you can have 5 channels within on smart string. And have total of two. There by having ten channel total.
And have as many string and each string have as many channels as you want.
But a way to use separate channels. Each channel having different effect. Simpler then vixen.
You could have a effect bank that every one adds to.
Have a picture on the subject like vixen.
Smaller light lines with more realistic matching in size. Seeing the nodes blinking.
Maybe you make it go night time in shades of darkness but see the subject like it was real.
O no my heads ready the explode. I'm think to much now. lol
i think you are describing what we already have in single strand effects.
You can take 2 strings of 128 nodes. Then take this total 256 nodes and divide it into 10 segments. you can have different effects on each segment.
mort; this is what we would for your horse once all hardware issues are resolved.
An effect back that people add to is sort of what the gallery is. If someone makes a cool effect, you can copy it to your effects library.
i have adjusted the size of the lights smaller than what i had originally. if i made them the actual size of pixels, the animated gif preview would not look like your real display. in real life the leds put out more light than their physical size would dictate.
for now, i am satisfied with how close the preview looks to the actual device. my tree looks close to what the preview shows.
thanks
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I think what Jim is wanting (I am too) is to be able just to turn on all of your lights and have every 4th light (if using RGBW) to the same color. I Used to do that with Twinkle and it was very pretty. My wife loved it. Not so easy to do now and the saturation of lights is fewer as well, since 1 node does the work of 4. It is a trade off for having RGB nodes, but I would like an easier way to do what Jim is asking.
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I think what Jim is wanting (I am too) is to be able just to turn on all of your lights and have every 4th light (if using RGBW) to the same color. I Used to do that with Twinkle and it was very pretty. My wife loved it. Not so easy to do now and the saturation of lights is fewer as well, since 1 node does the work of 4. It is a trade off for having RGB nodes, but I would like an easier way to do what Jim is asking.
I assume you are asking about single strand effects. ie lights on the eaves and not megatree effects.
currently single strand has
a) chases
b) solid colors (select a chase with no fade_3d)
I will be adding to single strand
c) twinkle
d) marquee. This would achieve the effect Jim is asking for. Set each light to a solid color from the palette and repeat. Allow lights to move or stay static
e) sparkle. This will include the ability to make something look like strobes. I can only use the current frame timing, so if 50 ms, it will be a 50ms pulse.
f) ability to divide each segment into arbitrary pieces. Each piece a solid color. Allow the pieces to move left or right or stay static. This effect could be used on a firepole to make a candy cane, for example.
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I sent you a PM before Christmas but didn't hear back from you.
Figured you were busy.
All the hard is working great.
Not sure how things work in Nutcracker will have to have to work with it and see.
Be the mad scientist right. Experiment.
Thanks for the help Sean.
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Has anyone asked for the traditional spinning of a megatree - the effect that rotates a strand(s) CCW or CW?
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It would also be handy to have an effect that simply spins the tree on one strand at a time and off the same way. You could choose the color and or multiple segmented colors.
In addition it would be cool to have it come on from the top and go off from the bottom with a single or multiple colors.
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Has anyone asked for the traditional spinning of a megatree - the effect that rotates a strand(s) CCW or CW?
While it could be added, that is pretty easy to do within existing software by grouping of channels.
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I must be missing something here, because I believe that capability was in one of the last updates to Nutcracker that Sean did. I know that I used two different spins in my pixel tree this year. I think it is a spiral with 0 wraps.
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Effect already exists:
(http://gustafsonlights.com/images/MTREE~MTREE_TEST.gif)
Here is an example of a blue spin of a single spiral with 0.0 rotation (straight line):
spirals Effect Settings
username kgustafson
user_target MTREE
effect_class spirals
effect_name MTREE_TEST
handiness L
number_spirals 1
number_rotations 0.0
spiral_thickness 1
window_degrees 360
frame_delay 50
sparkles 0
direction cw
rainbow_hue N
color1 #2B0AFF
color2 #FFFFFF
color3 #FFFFFF
color4 #FFFFFF
color5 #FFFFFF
color6 #FFFFFF
fade_3d N
show_frame N
seq_duration 5
fade_in 0
fade_out 0
speed 1
submit Submit Form to create your effect
$use_background N
background_color #FFFFFF
batch 0
OBJECT_NAME spirals
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Here is a spiral with 8 legs with alternating color (red/blue). You can have any pattern of colors (up to 5) repeating in Nutcracker.
Kurt
(http://gustafsonlights.com/images/MTREE~MTREE_TEST2.gif)
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ahhhh.... I never thought about using the spiral with 0 rotation. Thanks Kurt
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There is a lot more variation to it as well. You can make the 'legs' wider (span multiple strands) by changing the width, for example.
Kurt
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How about starting with string 1 and spiraling to total on? or off?
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How about starting with string 1 and spiraling to total on? or off?
that would be cool, and easy. keep the ideas coming ....
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- a Spirograph
- the retro video game QIX effect ?
- Star Wars (intro) text that starts close then moves up and off into the distance
- Christmas ornaments (balls, nutcrackers, stars, flakes, ???)
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Has a pinwheel been mentioned or considered?
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Has a pinwheel been mentioned or considered?
Pinwheel was released in 2.0. I am sure it will make it into 3.0 eventually
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Great, thank you.
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If nutcracker already has the ability to do this by tweaking current effects, please forgive me for asking....
Would like the ability to light up certain horizontal rows on mega tree, preferable a block of rows....
For example.... Have 20 strands with 50 nodes per strand.... Some command/effect that let's me light all nodes between 25-30 etc for all 20 strands.... In essence the block effect but only for a certain section that I can control where it lights up, what color it lights up, and it doesn't move.... then my next timing section I can then change block to a different block... be it continue up from 25-35 now.... or a small step like 27-32, or a full step 30-35....
This could also be implemented length wise.... for this example say there are 10 strands (counting left to right)... could then light up strand 5&6... next timing block light 4&7.... etc....
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If nutcracker already has the ability to do this by tweaking current effects, please forgive me for asking....
Would like the ability to light up certain horizontal rows on mega tree, preferable a block of rows....
For example.... Have 20 strands with 50 nodes per strand.... Some command/effect that let's me light all nodes between 25-30 etc for all 20 strands.... In essence the block effect but only for a certain section that I can control where it lights up, what color it lights up, and it doesn't move.... then my next timing section I can then change block to a different block... be it continue up from 25-35 now.... or a small step like 27-32, or a full step 30-35....
This could also be implemented length wise.... for this example say there are 10 strands (counting left to right)... could then light up strand 5&6... next timing block light 4&7.... etc....
do you have a youtube video of this effect anywhere? I am having a problem trying to imagine what it would look like
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It is to everyone's favorite song.... :P
http://youtu.be/23rOh8hCpEc
start at 0:25-0:30 for vertical & 0:30-0:32 for horizontal.... there are other things in the video that would be great too, like single line chase etc....
It would be a lot like the block effect that is already in the program, but would be static and I could set location of it on the tree (like how can move text up and down)..... and could set the size... 1 line across... 2, 5, 10 etc..
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ok, i got it.
maybe i will allow you to display an object and give sliders so you can position it.
rectangles, circles and such, you can adjust their size and then their position.
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Handwriting effect on text like someone writing each letter in cursive. This would probably only flow correctly with script style fonts.
Brian
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Sean -
for the request by tindivall :
I consider this a bar effect where you can control the the number of bars, width of each bar, color of the bar(s) and their vertical position... just my 2 cents worth.
I know several people who would like NC to comprehend the hybrid mode and skip whose channels when outputting the effect. I used Vixen and end up cutting and pasting the effect to shift it down 3 channels to avoid the hybrid channel. The first SSC is not a problem since I tell NC the channel number of the actual first RGB node.
a bit off topic - good presentation last night
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agree with what pk said... but would add static on (would not be an animation), where as the current bar effect moves on it's own
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I love what all the authors are doing, but the focus seems to have shifted to matrix displays. I still have a lot of single strands that I would like to see options for. Windows, gutter lines, porch columns, arches, etc. Has single strand effects fallen by the wayside?
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I love what all the authors are doing, but the focus seems to have shifted to matrix displays. I still have a lot of single strands that I would like to see options for. Windows, gutter lines, porch columns, arches, etc. Has single strand effects fallen by the wayside?
I have arches and eaves. i guarantee they will be working for my show this season. so no, single strand effects are still on the table.
i dont have a matrix.
my display is 20x120 megatree,
16x128 strings used for eaves,arches. we need to build a single strand model like we had in nutcracker 2. you just keep adding strings together and we then trreat the whole length as one model.
thanks
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A matrix is simply a flat, square mega tree isn't it?
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A matrix is simply a flat, square mega tree isn't it?
It is, but I meant I am not adding a matrix into my show. As far as sequencing, it is the exact same file for megatee or matrix.
Effects do look different on them. Meteor,snowflakes,garlands look better on a megatee, text, pictures look better on matrix.
IMO
Thanks
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I would like to see a copy button on the model list window. I have 32 mini trees. It will be a pain to enter them one at a time. So if I could build the first one, maybe call it mini tree 1, then, with the mini tree 1 highlighted, if I clicked the copy button the program would automatically make mini tree 2, click again for mini tree 3 and so on.
Thanks,
Rick S
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I would like to see a copy button on the model list window. I have 32 mini trees. It will be a pain to enter them one at a time. So if I could build the first one, maybe call it mini tree 1, then, with the mini tree 1 highlighted, if I clicked the copy button the program would automatically make mini tree 2, click again for mini tree 3 and so on.
Thanks,
Rick S
If you can edit XML files, it is pretty easy to do what you want.
In my case I wanted to clone my custom coroflake design, and it was easy to do so by editing the XML file xlights_rgbeffects.xml ... just name each copy with a unique name, and assign a new starting channel to each.
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I would like to see a copy button on the model list window. I have 32 mini trees. It will be a pain to enter them one at a time. So if I could build the first one, maybe call it mini tree 1, then, with the mini tree 1 highlighted, if I clicked the copy button the program would automatically make mini tree 2, click again for mini tree 3 and so on.
Thanks,
Rick S
If you can edit XML files, it is pretty easy to do what you want.
In my case I wanted to clone my custom coroflake design, and it was easy to do so by editing the XML file xlights_rgbeffects.xml ... just name each copy with a unique name, and assign a new starting channel to each.
steve has thsi right. making a copy of your model shoud take about 10 seconds.
here is my megatree. it is locted in teh <models> ... </models> section
<models>
<model name="MTREE" DisplayAs="Tree 180" parm1="20" parm2="120" parm3="1" StartChannel="600" Order="RGB" Dir="L" Antialias="0" MyDisplay="1"/>
</models>
if i want 3 copies, the new models will start at channles 200,500,1000 respectively
<models>
<model name="MTREE" DisplayAs="Tree 180" parm1="20" parm2="120" parm3="1" StartChannel="600" Order="RGB" Dir="L" Antialias="0" MyDisplay="1"/>
<model name="MTREE1" DisplayAs="Tree 180" parm1="20" parm2="120" parm3="1" StartChannel="200" Order="RGB" Dir="L" Antialias="0" MyDisplay="1"/>
<model name="MTREE2" DisplayAs="Tree 180" parm1="20" parm2="120" parm3="1" StartChannel="500" Order="RGB" Dir="L" Antialias="0" MyDisplay="1"/>
<model name="MTREE3" DisplayAs="Tree 180" parm1="20" parm2="120" parm3="1" StartChannel="1000" Order="RGB" Dir="L" Antialias="0" MyDisplay="1"/>
</models>
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Yup, works great. Thanks for the advice. About 1 more week and I will have my whole display set up in Nutcracker.
Now I have another problem. When I am working on my models on the right side of the model timing sheet, the start time and label columns have moved out of sight. Could there be a button or something that if clicked, would lock those two columns so that they would stay in view as I move the model columns left and right to select different models?
Thanks,
Rick S
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Sort of like in Excel where you can Lock or "freeze panes" the first 2 columns so they don't scroll. That would be helpful if you have many models active.
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I would like to see a candy cane model. I have 40 Wal-Mart candy canes that I have converted over to 12 node RGB candy canes. A candy cane model would help me on the preview pane.
Thanks,
Rick S
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First let me say that Nutcracker is a wonderful program. If Nutcracker did not exist I would NOT be attempting this show. So, Thanks to all who have a hand in making Nutcracker what it is. <res.
I have about 80 models. If all goes well I will be using all of them in the show this year. I would like to request two additions to the program.
1) As I mentioned above, I would like the Start Time and the Label columns to stay where they are when moving through the models. I would like them to stay fixed in their startup position.
2) I would like to be able to change the order of the model columns. for example, perhaps I would like to group my Eve models next to the candy canes. or maybe interleave some mini trees and some arches. Then after programming I might want to move the candy canes next to the bridge so I can see how I am sharing some of the effects.
Thanks for considering my requests.
Rick S
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Hey Rick,
1) I agree that this would be very helpful. Unfortunately the wx libraries for grids do not support the freeze pane abilities that we are all used to in excel. I am exploring if there are other options but short of extending the wxWidgets libraries to support this I do not see any. Given that I would say this functionality is unlikely to show up anytime soon.
2) I had this ability prototyped and it was working but I had a problem with keeping the first two columns where they belong. It should be reasonable to solve the outstanding issues here and provide this ability.
Frank
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just an idea...
instead of a "scrolling" capability, how about a method to change the order of the columns? maybe the model-selection list can be made into an ordered list (move items up, and move others down) and display the selected columns in the order presented in the list.
if you return to the list and change the order, the table is redrawn in that new order.
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Its not a bad idea Steve but Blegh... Not very elegant either... I would much prefer for the drag and drop reordering method to work. I will have to dig this back up and see where I can take it.
Frank
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Hey guys,
I have 4 rgb arches set up in nutcracker as an element. What I've experienced so far is any effects created run across all four arches simultaneously. I there away to create effects that run on selected arches for example a chase that starts with arch 1 flows through arch 2 then 3 then 4? or effects going left to right on arch 2 and 4 and right to left on arches 1 and 3. Maybe the solution is to define each arch as an individual element and create effects separately but it would be a cool time saver if it could be done as one element. Thoughts?
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I would like to know this answer as well. Just bought my PVC for my new arches today.
I have 4 rgb arches set up in nutcracker as an element. What I've experienced so far is any effects created run across all four arches simultaneously. I there away to create effects that run on selected arches for example a chase that starts with arch 1 flows through arch 2 then 3 then 4? or effects going left to right on arch 2 and 4 and right to left on arches 1 and 3. Maybe the solution is to define each arch as an individual element and create effects separately but it would be a cool time saver if it could be done as one element. Thoughts?
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I have 24 ready to be built. >.d9
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I have 24 ready to be built. >.d9
i plan on building 20 arches, 10' long each. I will be working on the new singlestrand effect class after i get home from the hospital. I should be all healed by then.
also i will be building 200' of running lights to run around the perimeter of my yard. they will be using the same effect class. it will be coming, but progably not until mid oct to 1st of November.
I go in for my operation tomorrow. 9am-2pm MST. They want me walking the next day, we will see.
anyways, single strand effects for arches will be coming.
thanks
sean
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I have 24 ready to be built. >.d9
i plan on building 20 arches, 10' long each. I will be working on the new singlestrand effect class after i get home from the hospital. I should be all healed by then.
also i will be building 200' of running lights to run around the perimeter of my yard. they will be using the same effect class. it will be coming, but progably not until mid oct to 1st of November.
I go in for my operation tomorrow. 9am-2pm MST. They want me walking the next day, we will see.
anyways, single strand effects for arches will be coming.
thanks
sean
As you walk through the hall, you should ask if you can have a wheeled-stand for your computer -- it would be a very therapeutic activity.
Get well soon!!
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Sean - they like to get you up the day after an operation. The Mrs. had a knee replaced and they got her up the next day! I know your doctors while take good care of you. Have a speedy recovery!!
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Nutcracker is great but, two more requests.
1) Sparkles, Brightness and Contrast are set to a default value at start up. I would like to request that, at startup, they load with the value they were at when the program was closed.
2) The starting corner is set in the Model. But, maybe sometimes I want one model to mirror another. Could you add a "mirror" check box to the effect generator so that if it is clicked, the saved effect would run as a mirror of the original effect. This would be VERY helpful for me.
Thank you again for all you do.
Rick S
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It me again. The more I use the Nutcracker, the more I like it and the more things I want to do with it.
I would like to see a model called "spinner". I have 4 spinners. I would like to see the model built with the hub is in the middle of the viewer instead at the top like on the tree model. I would like to choose the rotational sweep of the strands. Like maybe 90,180,270 and 360 degrees.
Essentially it would be like looking at the tree model from the top of the tree instead of from the side like it is now..
Thanks again,
Rick S
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I would like to see a model called "spinner". I have 4 spinners. I would like to see the model built with the hub is in the middle of the viewer instead at the top like on the tree model. I would like to choose the rotational sweep of the strands. Like maybe 90,180,270 and 360 degrees.
Essentially it would be like looking at the tree model from the top of the tree instead of from the side like it is now..
Thanks again,
Rick S
So why not just call it a tree and see what it looks like. Since you get to name the element you can call it a spinner even though model element type is a tree. That will let you program the spinner, just won't look right in the preview.
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Sean,
I hope all goes well with your operation and wish you a speedy and healthy recovery!!!!! God speed!!!!!
Gene
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I would like to see a model called "spinner". I have 4 spinners. I would like to see the model built with the hub is in the middle of the viewer instead at the top like on the tree model. I would like to choose the rotational sweep of the strands. Like maybe 90,180,270 and 360 degrees.
Essentially it would be like looking at the tree model from the top of the tree instead of from the side like it is now..
Thanks again,
Rick S
So why not just call it a tree and see what it looks like. Since you get to name the element you can call it a spinner even though model element type is a tree. That will let you program the spinner, just won't look right in the preview.
That is what I do now. But it is hard for me to visualize a 360 or a 180 degree fan when it looks like a 180 degree tree. It is just a request. I think would improve the program. The programmers can always decide not to do it.
Rick S
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I would like to see a model called "spinner". I have 4 spinners. I would like to see the model built with the hub is in the middle of the viewer instead at the top like on the tree model. I would like to choose the rotational sweep of the strands. Like maybe 90,180,270 and 360 degrees.
Essentially it would be like looking at the tree model from the top of the tree instead of from the side like it is now..
Thanks again,
Rick S
So why not just call it a tree and see what it looks like. Since you get to name the element you can call it a spinner even though model element type is a tree. That will let you program the spinner, just won't look right in the preview.
That is what I do now. But it is hard for me to visualize a 360 or a 180 degree fan when it looks like a 180 degree tree. It is just a request. I think would improve the program. The programmers can always decide not to do it.
Rick S
you should try a custom model. its not that difficult.
the problem with a custom model is that it is not flexible to trying out various options... string lengths, string counts, etc. are locked down when you describe the pixel placement. but if you know exactly what you want, then model editing is not as important.
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I think it would be nice to add an effect to Fire like is on Meteors. A choice between up or down. Start from the bottom and go up or, start from the top and go down.
I am heavy into programming now and appreciate all that Nutcracker can do. But every so often, as I am building effects, things come to mind.
For me right now, the most useful thing would be the ability to mirror. A mirror dropdown in the combined effect section that could have 5 choices. None, Mirror Left, Mirror Right, Mirror Up, Mirror Down.
Thanks,
Rick S.
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I think it would be nice to add an effect to Fire like is on Meteors. A choice between up or down. Start from the bottom and go up or, start from the top and go down.
I am heavy into programming now and appreciate all that Nutcracker can do. But every so often, as I am building effects, things come to mind.
For me right now, the most useful thing would be the ability to mirror. A mirror dropdown in the combined effect section that could have 5 choices. None, Mirror Left, Mirror Right, Mirror Up, Mirror Down.
Thanks,
Rick S.
rick; i would love to add you to the collaborator list and you can enhance the fire effect. The more the merrier.
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I think it would be nice to add an effect to Fire like is on Meteors. A choice between up or down. Start from the bottom and go up or, start from the top and go down.
I am heavy into programming now and appreciate all that Nutcracker can do. But every so often, as I am building effects, things come to mind.
For me right now, the most useful thing would be the ability to mirror. A mirror dropdown in the combined effect section that could have 5 choices. None, Mirror Left, Mirror Right, Mirror Up, Mirror Down.
Thanks,
Rick S.
rick; i would love to add you to the collaborator list and you can enhance the fire effect. The more the merrier.
Sean, Sorry, I think in mislead you. I do some programming but not in this language. What I meant was that I am presently heavy into the sequencing. My goal is to use only Nutcracker for the sequencing so, I am using every possible function and feature to get interesting effects. I am hoping to do 6 songs. I am sequencing 11 arches, 40 candy canes, 32 mini trees, 8 fans, 42 tea lights, 130 feet of eves, a 31 by 120 mega tree, 12 meteor lights and other various stuff. It will be interesting to see how this works out.
Thanks again for Nutcracker, as I have said, I would not have tried a show this big if Nutcracker did not exist.
Thanks,
Rick S.
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Keystroke for the Update Grid button.
Sometime I need to put the same effect into many locations. If the Update Grid button has a keystroke assigned it would make thing a lot quicker.
Thanks,
Rick S
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Keystroke for the Update Grid button.
Sometime I need to put the same effect into many locations. If the Update Grid button has a keystroke assigned it would make thing a lot quicker.
Thanks,
Rick S
rick, must be great minds? Zach wrote this request on another forum a few days ago.
"OK, so after finishing up three total sequences in nutcracker for this season I have come across a few more features I think would be great.
1) A short key combination for "update grid". Too much clicking back and forth and I loose my spot on the grid. Perhaps just my AutoCAD drafting background but right hand is for mouse, left hand is data entry. Short key would solve this!
2) Multiple arches that can be setup AND display as one long string. In current setup, say I have 4 arches, 40 pixels long each. When I send an effect, it plays on every arch from the same start. Not possible to do one long leap across the first, then second, then third, then fourth arch. Now I can do this if I set it up as a single string, but then it won't display that way in the sequencer window.
3) A simple input pane for a standard DMX fixture. Say a common GOBO light. Most follow a standard pattern, color, flash, pan, tilt, etc. over just 4 dmx channels. Would be nice to have a simple panel with intensity sliders for say 3-4 channels, something that could also be used for the "dumb" rgb fixtures and/or flood lights. I picture it much light the holidaycoro DMX tool or the DAe1.31 test utility, but with the ability to "write" to a nutcracker pane.
4) a "fill" effect. Say I have an effect written to the grid and updated. Then I skip the next timing mark, leave it open, and move to a third open cell on the grid. I write a totally new effect to that cell in the grid and update. I'd like to be able to click the open cell in between and write a "fill" or "transition" effect to it that would be a blend or merger of the before and after effects in the grid. Much the same way madrix does a "blend" between two different bin effects. Is there an easy way to pull the data from the before andd after cells and use it to input something simple for the in between? Would be particularly useful to be able to set say a 20% red intensity color wash in a grid space, skip one and do an 80% on the third, then "fill" the in-between to be a fit to time fade from 20% up to 80%. Make sense?"
his #1 request is same as yours.
i am looking into ti
thanks
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I would like to see one button that would lock or unlock everything. Then I could easily change the intensity of my mega tree, eves or other items without trying to remember to lock all the detailed items in each of the effects.
Thanks for all the hard work you all have done on this program.
Rick S
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Hi Sean,
This "may" sound silly but....
Would it be possible to have the test section (tab) effects have the ability to be scheduled?
Like for Valentines day I just have my window frames (no music) doing one RGB pattern per night. I select a different pattern each night (Alternate, twinkle 10%, etc) and set the sliders for Red (background) and White (highlight). Right now I am just "remembering" to start and stop them each night (since the Christmas light show ended until Feb 14). I really don't feel like creating a show (lazy) since the Test patterns work just fine for what my wife wants. The windows use around 900 channels.
Thanks for reading
Rick R.
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Hi Sean,
This "may" sound silly but....
Would it be possible to have the test section (tab) effects have the ability to be scheduled?
Like for Valentines day I just have my window frames (no music) doing one RGB pattern per night. I select a different pattern each night (Alternate, twinkle 10%, etc) and set the sliders for Red (background) and White (highlight). Right now I am just "remembering" to start and stop them each night (since the Christmas light show ended until Feb 14). I really don't feel like creating a show (lazy) since the Test patterns work just fine for what my wife wants. The windows use around 900 channels.
Thanks for reading
Rick R.
We plan on making the test patterns Available in single strand.
Scheduler must have a xseq file so not really possible to schedule the test patterns unless that has been created.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Hi Sean,
This "may" sound silly but....
Would it be possible to have the test section (tab) effects have the ability to be scheduled?
Like for Valentines day I just have my window frames (no music) doing one RGB pattern per night. I select a different pattern each night (Alternate, twinkle 10%, etc) and set the sliders for Red (background) and White (highlight). Right now I am just "remembering" to start and stop them each night (since the Christmas light show ended until Feb 14). I really don't feel like creating a show (lazy) since the Test patterns work just fine for what my wife wants. The windows use around 900 channels.
Thanks for reading
Rick R.
We plan on making the test patterns Available in single strand.
Scheduler must have a xseq file so not really possible to schedule the test patterns unless that has been created.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Ok no problem.
To be honest I was just looking for it to have a start and stop time.
Thanks
Rick R.
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What would perhaps be neat would be the ability to launch a detached (separate window) "enhanced" GUI editor for the nutcracker grid, which could be docked on a different monitor and would eventually have enhanced editing capabilities.
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What would perhaps be neat would be the ability to launch a detached (separate window) "enhanced" GUI editor for the nutcracker grid, which could be docked on a different monitor and would eventually have enhanced editing capabilities.
that would be cool!
the team is in discussions now for what is 2014 list
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What would perhaps be neat would be the ability to launch a detached (separate window) "enhanced" GUI editor for the nutcracker grid, which could be docked on a different monitor and would eventually have enhanced editing capabilities.
+1
I have been running dual 27" for years; so nice to have that much real estate ; detachable windowed GUI would be awesome
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I'm not sure if this has already been mentioned.
I live in FL and have a lot of palm trees. What I would like to see is the ability to have a 360 degree matrix or pole like the Tree Model. Maybe the Tree model could have the ability to open up the top or peak of the tree to be equal to the bottom like I have seen in adjustable previews. Maybe a Pole or Post Model with up to 360 degrees like the Tree Model? I'm thinking candy canes. I know I can do this in the field but I could be helpful to see it in NutCracker. Thanks and a great job.
Jerome