In Unreal Engine, Moving, Rotating, and Scaling are the basic tools for positioning and modifying objects (Actors) in your level. These tools help you design your scenes and arrange objects precisely. This guide explains how to use these tools in the Viewport.
Step 1: Accessing the Transform Tools
The Transform Tools are located in the toolbar at the top of the Viewport.
- Move Tool: Adjust the position of an object (Shortcut: W).
- Rotate Tool: Change the angle of an object (Shortcut: E).
- Scale Tool: Resize an object (Shortcut: R).
Step 2: Moving Objects
- Select the Move Tool (or press W).
- The object will display three arrows (red, green, and blue) representing the X, Y, and Z axes.
- To move the object:
- Drag an arrow to move it along a specific axis.
- Drag the white box in the center to move it freely in all directions.
Step 3: Rotating Objects
- Select the Rotate Tool (or press E).
- The object will display three colored circles representing rotation on the X, Y, and Z axes.
- To rotate the object:
- Drag a circle to rotate it along that axis.
- Hold Shift for more precise rotation.
Step 4: Scaling Objects
- Select the Scale Tool (or press R).
- The object will display three boxes on the X, Y, and Z axes.
- To scale the object:
- Drag a box to scale it along one axis.
- Drag the white box in the center to scale it uniformly in all directions.
Step 5: Using Snapping for Precision
- Snap Settings help you move, rotate, or scale objects in fixed increments:
- Grid Snapping: Moves objects by a set distance on the grid.
- Rotation Snapping: Rotates objects by fixed angles (e.g., 15°).
- Scale Snapping: Scales objects in fixed steps.
- Enable or disable snapping using the toolbar above the Viewport.
Step 6: Switching Between Local and World Space
- Objects can be transformed in two spaces:
- Local Space: Aligns the axes to the object’s orientation.
- World Space: Aligns the axes to the level’s global orientation.
- Switch between Local and World Space using the icon in the toolbar.
Step 7: Resetting Transformations
- If you need to reset an object’s position, rotation, or scale:
- Open the Details Panel on the right.
- Under the Transform section, set Location, Rotation, or Scale values back to default (e.g., 0 for position, 1 for scale).
Step 8: Combining Transformations
- Use Move, Rotate, and Scale together to fine-tune the placement of objects.
- For example, you can move an object to a specific location, rotate it to match an angle, and scale it to fit the scene.
Tips for Efficient Transformations
- Focus on Object: Press F to center the camera on the selected object for easier adjustments.
- Duplicate Objects: Hold Alt and drag an arrow to create a copy of the object.
- Use Camera Speed: Adjust the camera speed for better control while moving around the scene.
By mastering these tools, you can easily arrange and modify objects in your level, making your scenes look polished and professional. Practice using Move, Rotate, and Scale to become more efficient in building your projects!
