9.5.2

248 • CHAPTER 7
OBJECTS MENU • SPLINES • 249
Akima
This spline type creates a soft curve between vertices. The
interpolated curve always passes directly through the vertices.
Overshooting does not happen with this type of curve. Akima
interpolation adheres very closely to the path of the curve directly
between the vertices but, because of this, it can sometimes appear
somewhat hard. If this is not required, you should use Cubic
interpolation.
B-Spline
This kind of spline also creates a soft curve between the vertices.
However, the curve does not pass directly through the vertices.
This produces a very smooth curve. The vertices control only the
approximate path of the curve. Distant points have less inuence on
the curve than those lying closer together.
Bezier
This spline type creates a soft curve path between the vertices,
which can be controlled very precisely. The interpolated curve always
passes through the vertices. Overshoot does not happen.
Compared to the other spline types available, Bezier splines are the
most functional, offering the most control. Therefore CINEMA 4D
uses Bezier splines for its animation system.
Working with a Bezier spline and its tangents
If you activate a vertex of the spline (i.e. by clicking on it), additional
control points at the tangents to the curve become visible. Changing
the direction of the tangent handles controls the direction of the
curve at each vertex. To do this, drag the tangent end point. By
adjusting the length of these tangent handles, you can control the
strength of the curvature. Drag the tangent end point towards
the vertex point and observe the symmetrical movement of the
opposite handle.