Modeler tools are implemented as standard Houdini shelf tools, allowing you to integrate them into your own keymap. This means you can customize a unique modeling environment with personalized hotkeys and radial menus tailored to your workflow.
At the same time, Modeler includes its own keymap, which can be considered a dedicated modeling mode. If you are accustomed to the standard Houdini hotkeys, you can temporarily activate the Modeler keymap for modeling tools and then switch back to your usual keymap.
The Modeler keymap differs significantly from the standard one and is specifically optimized for quick access to modeling tools. It addresses the limitations of the default keymap, simplifying and speeding up the workflow. Below are its key differences.
In vanilla Houdini, the Escape key is used to activate the View mode, allowing you to manipulate the viewport camera.
In the Modeler keymap, the Escape key is assigned to the Drop tool from the Selection category.
In the Modeler keymap, the component selection type is changed using the keys 1 for points, 2 for edges, and 3 for faces. This approach follows the logic of most 3D applications and simplifies the process of switching between component types.