Mixamo Creation and Rigging for Animation
March 5, 2015, Game Developer Conference, San Francisco—We talked with some of the people at Mixamo about their tools for automating the creation and rigging for animation. The on-line tool is focused on humanoid body creation and rigging.
Under the hood, the software uses machine learning to expand its baseline database of motions. The system combines the inputs from human inputs on values and the machine learning to constantly improve its performance and capabilities. So far, they have rigged over 300 k characters for films, games, and augmented reality functions. some of the big names associated with the use of the tools include Epic and Marvel.
The on-line service provides an end-to-end solution and improves animator productivity for rigging and animation. The tools provides a number of views in Creator and can import models from almost anything. The service can provide pre-built characters which can be modified, and can also be used to create and rig new assets. The software can be fit into any place in the pipeline.
Within the pre-built models, the user can mix and match various body parts and the tool automatically re-meshes the connecting parts to result in a smooth, integrated complete character. The individual body-part components can also be customized through sliders and other high-level controls. After the adjustments, the clothing still fits the body well and is also adjustable.
The ability to input whole characters and still be able to modify patterns algorithmically provides an easy way to generate the characters while retaining control of details like hair, color, eyes, and shapes. The tool then automatically rigs the finished bipedal character. Future versions may include quadruped characters, but the basic mechanics are very different from humans. After rigging, the animations can be previewed in WebGL. The finished files are in FBX format and have appended control scripts for additional customization.
The Web service is available in annual or monthly blocks. There are various levels of service with a Starter permitting 5 animations per month. The Indie package allows 10 animations and you own the finished characters. The sub-services can be taken as a package or al a carte. The All-Access package permits 50 characters and fairly unlimited additional functions. The annual service costs the same as 10 monthly units. A student version is available for $200 per year, and a school can have up to 50 students use the tool for $1500. For more information see www.mixamo.com
