Mode

G1 Free:

Geometric continuity in tangency.

This is the mode that gives the most flexibility to the curve because it generates few internal constraints. It allows the curve to be deformed very locally when moving.

The passing points are constrained by two tangents with the same orientation but with different lengths. The deformation of such a Spline will be less harmonious, a "flat" effect will appear more easily at the interpolation point when a tangent is stretched.

When you move a tangent, a tangent end or an interpolation point, all the interpolation points and other tangents remain fixed (except for the point you move).

Balanced tangents C1:

Mathematical continuity in tangency.

The passing points are constrained by two tangents with the same orientation and same length. The deformation of such a Spline will be more harmonious.

When you move a tangent, a tangent end or an interpolation point, all the interpolation points and other tangents remain fixed (except for the point you move).

G2 Free:

Geometric continuity in tangency and curvature.

The passing points are constrained by two tangents with the same orientation but with different lengths.

When you move a tangent, tangents of others interpolation points can also move if they are free of any constraint.

Balanced curvatures C2:

Mathematical continuity in tangency and curvature.

This mode generates many internal constraints (the displacement of an entity of the curve (tangent or point) can generate a displacement of the other entities (other tangents and other points)).

The passing points are constrained by two tangents with the same orientation but with different lengths.

When you move a tangent, tangents of others interpolation points can also move if they are free of any constraint.

When you move an interpolation point the other interpolation points can also move if they are free of any constraint.

Tight:

Spline less malleable when it or its interpolation points are moved.

For more information regarding these modes, see general informations.

To create a Spline with passing points, it is recommended to start by using the Balanced tangents C1 mode to adjust its position and add the first constraints (tangencies...). Then, if necessary, switch to the G2 Free mode to refine the settings and eventually finish with the Balanced curvatures C2 mode.

To modify the mode of a Spline, open the contextual menu on it.

 If we want to make a modification, we recommend to use the Balanced tangents mode.