instance ass files (not paths)

use instancefile to access geo saved somewhere...

in a point wrangle - 

  s@instancefile=chs("path");

now with the geo node, you gotta add the instance tab and turn on fast instancing.

Checking if your instancefile files exist

Checking if your instancefile files actually exist...Cos sometimes...they don't! Stolen from MikeB

Paste this into a Python node:



import os

node = hou.pwd()
geo = node.geometry()

geo.addAttrib(hou.attribType.Point,'exists',0)

for pt in geo.points():
    file = pt.attribValue('instancefile')
   
    if os.path.isfile(file):
        pt.setAttribValue('exists',1)
    else:
        pt.setAttribValue('exists',0)
   

Exporting curves to Maya

When exporting curves to Maya as arnold ASS files, you can export "pscale" (this can remain a point value) for thickness. Note, it can be varied along the length of the curves, to create variation/tapering etc. A good way to preview the pscale is to add a "polywire" node. You might have to use pscale/2 for the polywire radius. (remember to blast most of your curves first if there are lots and lots of them!)

In the options for the Arnold archive output, make sure the "export Asstoc file" box is ticked. This creates the bounding box info for the curves.