Sprial velocity super challenge!

#1

So I need to add spiraling behavior to particles moving in any direction.
I know how to make particles spiral along a single axis:
nParticleShape1.velocity = <<1,cos(frame*.5)10,sin(frame.5)*10>>;

But how do you make get that same nice spiral along an arbitrary vector?
<<.23,-1,.75>>
And what if that vector isn’t a straight line?
I am creating trails behind a object that is flying around all over the place in multiple shots.
If any vector master has some thoughts I would be forever grateful!
Fingers crossed.

#2

I accepted your challenge… but it was a bit complex to explain here so I posted it on my blog:
http://area.autodesk.com/blogs/duncan/curling-particle-trajectories

#3

To hardcore blog entry? site is down! =)

#4

Duncan,
I had almost lost hope on this post…and then you swoop in for the win!
So awesome of you to take the time to break this down.
Hopefully other people will find this useful…as it is a masterful example of particle expressions.
I think I owe you a few beverages by now.
Add one more to the tab!
Thanks again.
~Ben

#5

Glad to help… this is one of those things that is harder than one would think it should be.

#6

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