Revolutionize Animation: AI Motion Capture for iClone 8

Revolutionize Animation: AI Motion Capture for iClone 8

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Motion Capture Life Hack: Overview
3. Step 1: Downloading the 3D Post Tracker
4. Step 2: Setting Up the 3D Post Tracker
5. Step 3: Recording the Motion Capture
6. Step 4: Saving the Motion Capture as BVH File
7. Step 5: Importing the BVH File to iClone 8
8. Step 6: Converting the BVH File to RL Motion
9. Step 7: Saving the RL Motion File
10. Using RL Motion Files in iClone 8
11. Conclusion

Introduction

Motion capture is a crucial technique in 3D animation, allowing animators to capture the movements of real-life actors and Apply them to virtual characters. In this tutorial, we will explore a life hack for iClone 8, a popular 3D animation software, using a motion capture system with just a webcam or any MP4 video. By using a self-made plugin for iClone 8, You can easily import and convert motion capture data into iClone motion files (RL motions). This tutorial will provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform AI motion capture and use the self-made plugin for iClone 8.

Motion Capture Life Hack: Overview

The motion capture life hack for iClone 8 allows you to perform AI motion capture using your webcam or MP4 videos. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can import the motion capture data into iClone 8 and convert it into iClone motion files. This innovative approach makes motion capture accessible and efficient for 3D animators and game developers.

Step 1: Downloading the 3D Post Tracker

To start with the motion capture life hack, you need to download the 3D Post Tracker version 0.5.1. This software will enable you to capture and track the motion data from your webcam or MP4 videos. You can find the download link for the 3D Post Tracker in the video description. Once downloaded, extract the contents of the zip folder to your computer.

Step 2: Setting Up the 3D Post Tracker

After downloading the 3D Post Tracker, you can open the software by double-clicking on it. The 3D Post Tracker interface will appear, allowing you to load your webcam feed or MP4 video for motion capture.

Step 3: Recording the Motion Capture

Once the 3D Post Tracker is open, you can load your webcam feed or MP4 video by clicking on the "Load Movie" button. Navigate to the location of your video file and select it. The video will start playing, and you can adjust the options for HAND tracking and mirror mode Based on your video quality.

Step 4: Saving the Motion Capture as BVH File

After adjusting the configuration settings, you can choose to activate hand tracking or the mirror mode based on your requirements. Once configured, you can start recording the motion capture by clicking on the "Record BVH" button. The software will record the captured motions in real-time.

Step 5: Importing the BVH File to iClone 8

To import the BVH file into iClone 8, you need to use a self-made plugin called the 3D Post Tracker BVH importer. This plugin will allow you to easily import the BVH file and convert it into iClone motion files. Open iClone 8 and start a new project.

Step 6: Converting the BVH File to RL Motion

In iClone 8, drag and drop the 3D Post Tracker BVH importer plugin onto the stage. Then, drag and drop the BVH file you saved earlier onto the plugin. A conversion window will appear, allowing you to convert the BVH file to RL motion. Click on the "Convert All" button to perform the conversion.

Step 7: Saving the RL Motion File

After converting the BVH file to RL motion, you can save it for future use. In iClone 8, go to the motion timeline window and scroll down to find the converted motion clip. Right-click on it and select "Save Motion Clip." Choose a destination folder and give the motion file a suitable name. Click on "Save" to save the RL motion file.

Using RL Motion Files in iClone 8

Once you have RL motion files, you can easily apply them to your virtual characters in iClone 8. Simply drag and drop the RL motion file onto the desired character, and it will start animating with the captured motion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this motion capture life hack for iClone 8 allows you to perform motion capture using your webcam or MP4 videos. By following the step-by-step instructions in this tutorial, you can effortlessly import and convert the motion capture data into iClone motion files. This innovative approach simplifies the motion capture process, making it accessible to all 3D animators and game developers.

Highlights

• Perform motion capture in iClone 8 using a webcam or MP4 videos
• Download the 3D Post Tracker software for motion capture
• Set up the 3D Post Tracker and configure the options
• Record the motion capture and save it as a BVH file
• Import the BVH file into iClone 8 using the self-made plugin
• Convert the BVH file to RL motion in iClone 8
• Save the RL motion file for future use
• Apply RL motion files to virtual characters in iClone 8

FAQ

Q: Can I use any webcam or does it need specific capabilities? A: You can use any standard webcam for motion capture in iClone 8. The software is designed to work with most webcam models.

Q: Are the RL motion files compatible with other animation software? A: RL motion files are specifically created for iClone 8. While they may not be compatible with other software, you can export animations from iClone 8 in various formats for use in other programs.

Q: Can I perform motion capture with multiple actors at the same time? A: The motion capture life hack demonstrated in this tutorial focuses on capturing the motion of a single actor using a webcam. However, multiple actors can be captured individually and their motions can be combined later in the animation process.

Q: Is it possible to edit the captured motion in iClone 8? A: Yes, iClone 8 provides various editing features that allow you to refine and customize the captured motion. You can adjust the timing, modify the keyframes, and add additional animations to enhance the final result.

Q: Will the motion capture life hack work on older versions of iClone? A: The specific steps and plugins mentioned in this tutorial are intended for iClone 8. While some of the concepts may be applicable to older versions, the plugins and functionality may vary.