this answers my latest question: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CimCc4f4Mc0

Note, however, that 3DXChange imposes a sanity check on the vertices at the boundaries between Head, Upper, Lower, etc, and if you modify the vertex count the modification will be rejected.

Thank you all for your help,

Does the exchange tool accept normal or displacement maps?

There are two very different workflows, depending upon the investment in software and training by the user. The first option is to stay inside iClone and use the avatar proportions and face fitting features; then create custom accessories using the 3D primitives. The power of this route should definitely not be underestimated.

The second option is to export segments of the avatar using 3DXChange 4 to OBJ format. These body segments can be extensively modified using any 3D package, including sculpting programs like ZBrush. Note, however, that 3DXChange imposes a sanity check on the vertices at the boundaries between Head, Upper, Lower, etc, and if you modify the vertex count the modification will be rejected.

Note also that this situation has changed with iClone 5, and 3DXChange 4 will generally not accept props or G5 avatars. We are still waiting for 3DXChange 5 to be announced.

General Picture - animating now to life itself(tm)
Member of Content Wizards

There are plugins available for several versions of Studio Max and I think for Maya too. These are available if you signup as a developer. Non-Standard characters in FBX format can be brought in via 3DXchange but will not work with stock motions.

That is all I have worked with. Maybe someone will enlighten us to what else might be available.

Retired Digital Freelancer, Author, and Die Hard Animator No Longer Under Adult Supervision.
Doing what I want to do... instead of what someone else's script forces me to do.
Writer and reviewer at Reallusion Magazine


                                                                                                                     

Hi Folks,

Can someone please describe me the typical workflow to build an animated character with iClone?

Is it possible to export the geometry to tweak them in other programs and reimport?

Thank you all for your (hopefully) many inputs :)