Python: Repurposing Mocap Data

A Python, Maya, and RenderMan workflow for extracting motion-capture data and repurposing it into renderable RIB archives and visualized 3D entities.

• Motion-capture data parsing and transformation into usable scene data
• Maya UI and RenderMan archive generation workflow
• Python, MEL, and RenderMan scripts for procedural mocap visualization

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Technical Breakdown

Breakdown of the workflow for generating archives and visualizing skeleton, volume, and character-driven mocap outputs.

UI Description

Interface notes for selecting mocap source data and preparing the RenderMan archive workflow inside Maya.

UI Demonstration

Two-step workflow for generating and rendering RIB archives from motion-capture data.

Step 1 — Generate RIB Archives

1. Create a proxy object, such as a polygon cube.
2. Select the proxy and run mocapUI();.
3. Select the proxy shape tab to display the interface.
4. Browse for the mocap data file.
5. Ensure there is a RIB_Archive folder in the Maya project directory.
6. Set an end frame in Maya Render Settings.
7. Run rman genrib;.

Step 2 — Render the RIB Archives

1. Hide the proxy object.
2. From the RenderMan menu, select Archives → Create Node.
3. Browse for the first archive RIB and set the start/end frame.
4. Change the numeric extension.
5. Assign a material through the custom shading group on the transform node.
6. Render an image and confirm that the baked geometry is correct.