Are patch layers redundant with smart bones?

[braj]

I am still using patch layers, but was wondering if I shouldn't. I noticed Selgin's new characters in V10 don't seem to use them. I know it may come down to character design, but in general, is there any reason to avoid them?

[Telemacus]

I believe they've become unnecessary in most cases, as smartbones can be used instead, as they do a better job.
(I watched on a couple of youtube tutorials dealing with smartbones and they do address that topic).

[dueyftw]

Patch layers have their place. Some rigs will have more than one or two bones controlling points. Rather than trying to figure out, say, smart bone 1 effects it this way and smart bone 2 effects that way and smart bone 3 dose something else, all to the same points. Then you have bone 1 and bone 3 active. I'm sorry I'm getting confused on what smart bone will be doing what.

Maybe it would be easier to hide the points with a patch layer than try to counteract each smart bone with each other.

Dale

[braj]

Maybe it would be easier to hide the points with a patch layer than try to counteract each smart bone with each other.

Dale

Yeah that's basically my experience, but I do think it has a lot to do with me not knowing how to use smartbones effectively. I'm also wondering what sort of performance hit patch layers might have.