Introduction

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In the past, physics-based elastic character simulation systems have been available only to the most privileged and resourced game, animation and visual effects studios. This is no longer the case.

We provide a streamlined interface for simulating the breadth of anatomical tissues responsible for the physical appearance of every living creature as well as plants and inanimate, but deformable objects like trees, bridges and beach balls.

Why Use Physics-Based Animation?

We all want more realism in our graphics, but we also have an increased demand to create more and more content. The only way to achieve both is physics-based graphics techniques. Already widely used for cloth and fluid simulation, physics-based character simulation is the next natural step.

Why Use the Finite Element Method?

The finite element method (FEM) is the prevailing approach used to simulate elastic objects for engineering and scientific purposes. FEM is the most accurate, flexible, well-understood and stable of the continuum discretization strategies. It is capable of producing results that are faithful to real world objects’ measured materiality. FEM results are mesh-independent, unlike mass-spring systems, which are mesh-dependent and don’t model any particular physical material with much accuracy.

In the following documentation, we will provide you with the tools you’ll need to know in order to become an effective Character Engineer.