MP Sweep (Multi-Profile Sweep)

MP Sweep is a custom Houdini Digital Asset (built in Houdini 21) that extends the functionality of the native Sweep SOP. It introduces support for multiple profile curves along spine curves while maintaining a workflow that closely mirrors the default tool, making it easy to integrate into existing setups.

This tool is pretty robust and has served me well in production. I’m sharing it here in case others find it useful too. It’s provided as-is — I’m just one person and can’t promise ongoing support or updates, though I’m happy to answer questions when I get the chance.

It’s pay-what-you-want (suggested $5). Totally free if you just want to use it — or if you’d like to shout me a coffee, that’s always appreciated.

Note: This HDA was created in Houdini Indie and is thus compatible with Indie licenses only.

Core Features

• Multi-profile support: Sweep multiple profile curves along a single spine for more complex form generation.
• Profile blending: Transition between profiles using either:
  • A parameterized ramp
  • A custom mask attribute defined on the spine
• Native-like interface: Parameters and controls are aligned with Houdini’s built-in Sweep SOP

Additional Features

• Independent caps: Option to enable or disable caps separately on each end of the sweep
• Advanced rotation controls: Rotation can be controlled directly or driven via a ramp for smooth directional changes
• Built-in carving: The sweep can be carved along its length, with all blends, scales, and rotations conforming to the carved region automatically

Typical Use Cases

• Modeling bottles, containers, and vessels
• Generating tubes, pipes, and hoses with variable cross-sections
• Creating organic or decorative forms with smoothly changing profiles
• Any scenario requiring consistent sweep logic with extended flexibility

I’ve also included an example scene with a few setups so you can dive in quickly and see how the tool works in practice.

Notes

• MP Sweep was originally built for a production project where the default Sweep SOP was insufficient
• The tool was generalized, refined, and packaged for broader use

Updates

• v1.1: Added skip resample option