Need help with vectors, angles, etc please

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on moving a 3-dimensional object along the surface of a 3D sphere in the direction it is facing. The key concepts involved are spherical coordinates, specifically the angles theta and phi, which define the object's position on the sphere. The user initially struggled with basic vector math but ultimately resolved their issue by understanding how to convert spherical coordinates into Cartesian coordinates. This conversion allows for effective manipulation of the object's movement on the sphere's surface.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of vector math, including sine and cosine functions.
  • Familiarity with spherical coordinates and their definitions (theta and phi).
  • Knowledge of Cartesian coordinates and conversion methods between coordinate systems.
  • Experience with 3D graphics or physics simulations (optional but beneficial).
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical principles of spherical coordinates and their applications in 3D space.
  • Learn about converting between spherical and Cartesian coordinates in detail.
  • Explore vector mathematics in the context of 3D object movement and orientation.
  • Investigate physics engines or libraries that handle 3D object manipulation, such as Unity or Three.js.
USEFUL FOR

Game developers, computer graphics programmers, and anyone interested in 3D modeling or simulations who needs to understand object movement on spherical surfaces.

kayl669
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I have a problem that I have no way of solving on my own. I would like to know how to move a 3-dimensional object long the surface of a 3-D sphere and have it move in the direction it is facing, relative to the surface. Can someone please help me? I am not very good at math but am trying. What I know so far is very basic vector math, like sine/cosine, angles between vectors etc. I would really appreciate any help you could give me.
 
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kayl669 said:
I have a problem that I have no way of solving on my own. I would like to know how to move a 3-dimensional object long the surface of a 3-D sphere and have it move in the direction it is facing, relative to the surface. Can someone please help me? I am not very good at math but am trying. What I know so far is very basic vector math, like sine/cosine, angles between vectors etc. I would really appreciate any help you could give me.

Can you define your problem better? Without a better describtions of your system and what you really want... I'd look at it in spherical cooridinates... in this coordinate system the radius r would not be allowed to change, but theta (angle describing where you are in lattitude from north to south pole, allowed to be from 0 to pi) and phi (describing where you are in longitude, allowed to vary from 0 to 2pi) are allowed to change.

This system is easily converted into x/y/z (Cartesian) coordinates if you choose.
 
Thank you for trying to help me. I finally figured it out :)
 
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