Linking animation trigger to skeleton.nif fingers?

[bootaka]

So, I've been working on a mod, which adds a type of Tensen (Iron Fan) There is already a set floating around the net, I enjoy them, but I wanted to expand on the idea.

 

What I would like to be able to do, have a closed animation of the tensen at idle, and when block is activated, I would like the animation to start and expand the tensen. I have no idea if this is even possible to connect the model and skeleton animation in such a way. The reason I think it would be is that when the standard block animation is triggered, the hand starts open at idle and clinches on trigger.

 

Aside from what I'd like, creating a full custom block animation for the tensen alone could be an alternitive, but that doesn't strike me as something that would be very popular among masses who just want to install and enjoy. The only other way I can see something like this visually would be to use 2 separate models, one for open, one for closed tensen, being used in conjunction with something with weapon scripting like Armed to the Teeth, would allow me to define the closed tensen as a dagger/mace and open as a shield. Which atm is the way I'm learning towards because it sounds much easier. But wouldn't look at cool as an animation.

 

anyone have any thoughts?

[bootaka]

Sorry I ended up in the wrong forum! Would a mod mind moving this thread to the Mod Talk please :wallbash:

[steve40]

Well you could put a script on the player to detect when he is blocking (probably via a magic effect or ability using a Conditional Function to check if blocking, and a script attached) and then call PlayAnimation on the Tensen. Assuming that the Tensen already has a working Havok animation, that is. Edited November 2, 2012 by steve40