Easily rig a Monster Truck

Create a complex rig and animate your own monster truck in Newton. We'll also give you a tool to visualize animated springs!

In this After Effects tutorial, we'll learn how to rig and animate a monster truck with a complex rig for the Suspensions using our powerful physics engine, Newton.

Get Newton for Adobe After Effects : https://aescripts.com/newton
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We'll start by preparing our truck in After Effects, then head into Newton to set up our simulation. We'll also use ConnectLayersPRO to visualize the suspensions in AE.

Download the AEP (AE 2024 and above) to visualize the spring here

 

This tutorial is perfect for motion designers looking to add realistic physics to their animations. Whether you're new to Newton or an experienced user, you'll find valuable tips and techniques to help you create stunning animations.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Setting Up the Composition

  • Import your vehicle elements (wheels, body, shock absorbers) into a 1920x1080 HD composition at 30 frames per second.
  • Create a shape layer to define the uneven ground and organize your layers for better visualization.
  • Apply masks to the wheels and bodywork for accurate representation in Newton.

Step 2: Configuring Newton

  • Send your elements to Newton and set up the scene with a static floor and dynamic null objects for suspensions.
  • Adjust gravity, solver sub-steps, and damping for realistic physics.
  • Use wheel joints to create suspension and motor effects for the wheels.

Step 3: Animating the Vehicle

  • Animate the motor's rotation speed and torque to control the vehicle's movement.
  • Add angular velocity for realistic rotation and adjust friction for better grip.
  • Use keyframes to control the timing of the motor's activation and deactivation.

Step 4: Adding Details

  • Create a trunk effect using masks to keep baskets inside the vehicle.
  • Add shadows and track mattes to enhance the visual realism.
  • Animate the baskets to simulate objects spilling out upon impact.

Step 5: Final Touches

  • Render the animation and place it in a new composition for better tracking.
  • Adjust the simulation to include stopping, reversing, and braking effects.
  • Use collision groups to manage interactions between objects and the vehicle body.

Conclusion

Your monster truck animation is now complete!