Motion Clips

Setting up character animation with motion clips and blending

Overview

This workflow demonstrates how to set up a character animation system using motion clips in Houdini, including T-pose setup, animation sequence configuration, and prop attachment. The setup allows for clean transitions between poses and provides a foundation for adding props, hair, and clothing.

Step-by-Step Process

Motion Clip Sequence setup showing T-pose transition into animation

Initial Setup

1. Character Import and T-Pose

Import your character model (FBX, Alembic, etc.)
Create a Motion Clip node for the T-pose
Set this as your rest pose for the initial frame
This T-pose will serve as the foundation for attaching props and accessories

Motion Clip Configuration

2. Setting Up Motion Clips

First motion clip: T-pose (rest pose)
Second motion clip: Your character animation
Set motion clip cycle frame range to 0-20 (or your desired range)
In Motion Clip Sequence node, set Blend Frames to 20 for smooth transition

This setup ensures your character starts in T-pose and smoothly transitions into the animation. The blend frames parameter (set to 20) creates a gradual transition between the T-pose and the start of your animation sequence.

Animation Processing

3. Motion Extraction and Evaluation

Use Extract Location node to separate positional data
Motion Clip Evaluate node processes the animation sequence
Configure time offset and blending parameters as needed
Use these nodes to control and modify the character's motion

Tips and Best Practices

Always start with a clean T-pose for consistent setup
Use sufficient blend frames for smooth transitions
Create clear naming conventions for motion clips
Test prop attachments through full animation range
Consider using null objects as attachment points for complex props

See also: Vellum Cloth Constraint Point Deform - Learn how to add cloth simulation to your character setup using point deform constraints.