AnimServo

Description & Features

AnimServo is a plug-in for use with Autodesk Maya. It allows you to use a variety of methods to create & record animation from Autodesk Maya and then import it to a Pololu Maestro USB Servo Controller using Pololu Maestro Control Center Software.

Create recordings that can control from 1 up to 24 servos depending on which Pololu Maestro USB Servo Controller you are using.

AnimServo uses several different methods that allow you to connect to existing controls in Maya or create new ones. In addition, AnimServo has several custom control setups including one for Faceware Technologies facial motion capture products.

Please note that AnimServo does not control in real time. AnimServo allows you to create animation performances in Maya and then export them to the Pololu Controller, where they will play back in real time at 24 samples per second.

VIRTUAL SERVOS

Virtual Servos work just like their real counterparts. Represented by simple low poly-count geometry, they can be animated directly or set up as part of an animation rig to act as a recorder. Use up to 24 Virtual Servos or mix and match them with several of the other AnimServo methods.

Virtual Servos are set up to rotate around their “Y” Axis, but just like real servos, they can be placed in any position & orientation. Easily set up a “one to one” relationship with real-world servos.

NAME CONVENTION SYSTEM

The Name Convention System works by giving a unique name to an object in Maya. AnimServo can then record the objects translation. By default, the system is set to record motion in the object’s “Y” translation axis. The object can be rotated to record in a different axis.

In the example to the left, a polygon cube has been named “Servo_00_in_Ctl”. It can now be used as a AnimServo Controller. Any Maya object that can be translated in “Y” axis can be used as a controller.

EYE CONNECTOR

Easily connect to standard “eye-rigging” controls with AnimServo “Eye Connector”. Works by attaching to the standard eye controls using “X” & “Y” Translations. Can also be mixed and matched with the other connector methods.

WORKS WITH FACEWARE

Harness the power of motion capture to drive your animatronic masterpieces. AnimServo was tested and developed with Faceware Technologies Analyzer & Retargeter software and even comes with a special connector to hook up to 12 servos to Faceware’s “Victor” Rig.