TypeData Modules

In essence, TypeData modules allow you to change the type of particle you will be creating with your emitter. That is to say, they change the behavior of the particle on a fundamental level. By default, an emitter contains a Sprite TypeData module, which allows the emitter to create sprites as described earlier. However, you also have the option of creating Beam, Mesh, and Trail TypeData modules to change your current particles to that particular type. These TypeData modules are added to the particle system using Cascade. This section describes the different kinds of TypeData modules available. Note that Beam, Mesh, and Trail emitters are discussed in greater depth in their own respective sections of this chapter.

Beam

The Beam TypeData module causes the emitter to create beams of connected particles, spanning between two designated points (see FIGURE 5.17). The segments of a beam are created by a series of planes all rotated about a single axis. These beams can have noise applied to them, allowing them to have an irregular shape such as that of a lighting bolt.