Transforming objects

There are two basic methods to transform your objects: using the Transformation handles, or by entering specific coordinates.

By default, when you transform an object, the transformation is applied from a starting point or ‘pivot’ at the center of the object. If you want to transform an object from a point other than it’s own origin, you can adjust the Transformation pivots. See Transformation pivots for more information.

To transform objects with Transformation handles:

1. Select Translation, Rotation, or Scaling manipulation mode by clicking the appropriate Transformation button in the Viewer window toolbar. (See Transformation buttons.)
2. Select an object.

   Transformation handles (arrows for translation, rings for rotation, and handles for scaling) appear on the selected object.

   

   Transformation handles on a sphere A. Translation B. Rotation C. Scaling

3. Drag these handles to manipulate your objects in the Viewer window.
   NoteYou can Increase or decrease the size of the Transformation handles (arrows, handles, or rings) by pressing the plus sign or minus sign keys of the numeric key pad when they are the active selection.

To transform objects using the Free Transform plane:

1. Select the object you want to transform.
   NoteMake sure you are in Selection or XYZ mode in the Selection Mode Menu at the side of the Viewer window.
2. Click in the Viewer window and press T, S, or R on the keyboard to activate translation, scaling, or rotation mode for the object. The yellow Free Transform plane (or ring) appears.
   

   Sphere in Scaling mode A. Free Transform plane

3. If translating or scaling, hover your mouse over the Transform plane; the transform plane highlights as the mouse passes over.
4. When the plane is highlighted, drag the object. If rotating the object, drag the yellow rotation ring.

• Scaling mode
• Free Transform plane
• Transformation pivots

To transform objects using specific coordinates:

• Click and drag left or right in the Global/Local/Layer fields of the Viewer window to decrease or increase the value.

  To drag through numbers more slowly, right-click and drag in the field.

• Double-click in the X, Y, or Z fields, type the new value, and click Enter.

  The currently selected Transformation and Reference modes are displayed beside the Global/Local/Layer fields in the Viewer window.

Viewer window A. Global/Local/Layer fields

• Status bar area