Constraints with flexibility (child moving off and on its parent)?

QuinnZoneStudios

Hey all,
I'm wondering how I can have a constrained object move away from its parent for a moment and return to its home position again?
For example, if a figure jumps in the air, how would his hat to fly off of his head and land again? I know I could animate it but I want it to be physics based.
I tried all the easy and obvious stuff but the child remains 100% constrained in place.
I'm sure there must be a predictable formula for this sort of thing but haven't found anything yet.
Has anyone done this already?
Thanks in advance,

Mike

quantumsheep

I assume you have a 'jump' variable.

You could say if jump is true, then move hat Y up by 50, otherwise constrain to actor.

Might work?

QS

synthesis

Try constraining the hat's x value to the character but interpolate its y value when jump is true.