Lattice System in Unreal Engine 5 for Mesh Deformation

Published on January 08, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Perspective view of a 3D model with a wireframe lattice structure enveloping it, showing active control points and real-time applied deformation within the Unreal Engine 5 viewport.

Lattice System in Unreal Engine 5 for Mesh Deformation

The Unreal Engine 5 engine has integrated a revolutionary lattice tool that transforms the modeling and animation workflow. This system allows deforming three-dimensional objects through a cage-like control structure, offering unprecedented creative flexibility 🎨.

Lattice Setup and Customization

To implement this functionality, artists must import their 3D mesh and apply the lattice modifier from the specialized tools panel. The interface automatically generates an enveloping wireframe cage whose vertices can be manipulated with total freedom. A crucial aspect is calibrating the cage resolution according to the project's complexity, balancing precision and performance.

Essential Configuration Parameters:
  • Density adjustment of points for detailed control or resource optimization
  • Intuitive selection and manipulation of control vertices
  • Real-time visualization of applied deformations
The lattice cage is not a prison for the object, but its key to unlimited transformations without compromising its fundamental structure.

Integration into Professional Pipelines

This technology fits perfectly into advanced production workflows, especially in character animation where deforming clothing, accessories, or facial expressions is required. Additionally, it efficiently solves issues with imported models and adapts assets between different scenarios without retopology processes.

Highlighted Applications:
  • Correction of imperfections in meshes imported from external software
  • Quick adaptation of assets to multiple scenarios and poses
  • Creation of organic animations with natural transitions

Optimization of the Creative Workflow

Combined with tools like Control Rig, the lattice system exponentially accelerates animation processes through keyframes on control points that generate fluid movements. This non-destructive approach preserves the original topology while facilitating rapid iterations during creative development, setting a new standard in productive efficiency 💫.