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Preparing models in Maya

Prepare your model in Maya before importing it into Expivi. Groups define the hierarchy, and assigned materials can provide basic surface colors.

Setting up the scene​

  1. Open Windows › Settings/Preferences › Preferences.
  2. Under Settings › Working Units, set the linear unit to Meter.
  3. Import your model through File › Import.

Creating a hierarchy​

Select model parts and press Ctrl+G to group them. Double-click group names in the Outliner to rename them.

Follow the hierarchy naming conventions, which tell Expivi how to interpret the groups.

Adding basic materials​

  1. Open Hypershade from the shelf.
  2. Create a Lambert material.
  3. Select the mesh or faces.
  4. Right-click the material and choose Assign Material to Selection.

Alternatively, middle-drag the material onto the mesh.

note

Materials are optional when using material groups: you can create and assign them in Expivi. Fixed-color parts can use Maya materials directly.

Exporting the model​

  • For selected hierarchy parts, use File › Export Selection.
  • For everything, use File › Export All.

Choose FBX, the recommended format. The guide also lists DAE and OBJ.