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- Using BioVision Motion Data in SoftImage|3D
-
- I. Model Preparation for Semented (Jointed) Models
-
- Accompanying the sample motion data is a skeleton file called
- "actorskl.hrc" which contains all the appropriately scaled segments of a
- sample model which can be used as a reference for reading/importing a
- character. This is just a sample .hrc file that can be read in under
- "get->oldfasioned_get->model"
-
- Each segment of the model you wish to use must be positioned so that the
- desired pivot point for that segment lies at the origin. This results in
- a model whose pieces are all positioned on top of each other at the world
- origin. The "actorskl.hrc" file illustrates this. Each segment goes to the
- assigned world origin as the motion is constrained after importing.
-
- The model you build should be similar to the "actorskl.hrc". After understanding
- this method, you may be able to define a similar, but different, application of
- the motion to the geometry specific to your needs.
-
- The "actorcal.scl" is scaling information taken directly from the .bva file.This
- file is a subset of what is found in the .bva files.
-
- II. Motion Importing
-
- Motion from BioVision is provided in a BioVision ASCII (.bva) file format.
- This format is supported in SoftImage through a direct importer located
- under the Motion module of SoftImage. To import a motion file, select the
- Motion module, then go under Channels->Import Motion File->BioVision
- Animation. Select the file to import.
-
- III. Motion Attachment/Constraining
-
- For each segment of the model, constraints must be assigned which associate
- the model segment with the appropriate motion joint. Position and
- orientation constraints need to be created for each segment. This is done by
- first selecting the geometry segment (e.g. Neck), then choosing
- Constraint->Position, then picking the corresponding motion channel for that
- segment. (e.g. Neck_Motion). A line between the two nodes in the graph
- should appear labeled "CstPos". If it does not, you need to select Motion
- mode from the top of the schematic window. To create the orientation
- constraint, just select Orientation in place of Position in the above
- process. Repeat the process of assigning position and orientation
- constraints for each of the segments in the model. Upon completion, each
- model segment will have both a positional and orientation constraint tying
- it to a joint of the motion. At this stage the animation can be played. The
- figure should be correctly postioned and demonstrate the motion that was
- applied to it when played.
-