Using Houdini to Generate an Animation Path

 

In this video tutorial and blog post, Escape Studios tutor Simon Browne explains how to use Houdini to generate an animation path.  One common computer animation technique is to use a path to control the motion of a subject, commonly a vehicle.  Many animators may not know that there is a tool in Houdini that can generate an animation path automatically from features and attributes present in the scene environment.  To find out more about Houdini, follow this link to the Houdini tutorials at our Vimeo Tutorial Channel.

How to Use Houdini to Generate an Animation Path - with Simon Browne

In the video demonstration above I have painted an attribute called "danger".

The tool threads a path through the scene by avoiding areas of danger. You just give it a starting point and an end point and paint out the bits of the scene that are considered dangerous or uncrossable

In this example I have used the attributes that Houdini's excellent heightfield terrain ecosystem can produce to drive the motion of the little car.

This is what this tutorial focuses on.

Houdini Resources at Escape Studios

Houdini Tutorials at the Vimeo Tutorial Channel

We have a number of Houdini Resources at Escape Studios, including many Houdini tutorials at our growing Vimeo Tutorial Channel. 

• Meet the Houdini Tutors at Escape Studios
• Houdini Evening Class Starts 9 Jan 2024
• Houdini Tutorials at our Vimeo Channel
• Free Houdini Tutorials from Mark Spevick
• Escape Studios Houdini Certified School

The Escape Studios Animation Blog offers a personal view on the art of animation and visual effects.  To apply for our BA/MArt in 3D Animation, follow this link.