You can easily uncombine shapes (objects) in Maya by selecting the combined object and using the 'Uncombine' command in the Edit menu.
When you combine multiple objects in Maya, they become a single transform node, though their original shape nodes are still often preserved internally. The good news is that this process is reversible. As stated in the provided reference, you can always uncombine the objects and revert to their original state if needed.
Steps to Uncombine Objects in Maya
Uncombining objects is a straightforward process:
- Select the Combined Object: In your Maya scene, click on the object that was previously created by combining multiple shapes.
- Access the Edit Menu: Go to the main menu bar at the top of the Maya window.
- Choose 'Uncombine': Click on the Edit menu, then select Uncombine.
This will restore the original objects to their individual state, with all of their attributes and properties intact.
What Happens When You Uncombine?
When you use the Uncombine function, Maya separates the combined transform node back into individual transform nodes, each corresponding to one of the original objects. The individual objects will reappear in the Outliner as separate entries. This means:
- Each object can be selected, moved, rotated, and scaled independently again.
- Original names (unless renaming occurred during combine) and attributes are typically preserved.
Why Use Combine and Uncombine?
- Combine: Useful for manipulating multiple objects as a single unit (e.g., moving a character's entire head) or for organization in the Outliner.
- Uncombine: Essential for when you need to work on individual components again, modify their attributes separately, or reorganize your scene structure.
The Uncombine function ensures flexibility, allowing you to group objects for easy manipulation while retaining the ability to break them apart whenever necessary for detailed work or scene adjustments.
