Lesson Plan 21

Maya

 

Lesson Title

3D modeling and animation with Autodesk Maya

Duration

5 classes (7.5 hours)

Synopsis

This module introduces students to the software and techniques for creating 3D modeling and animation for the virtual environment. 

Description of Class

Building upon the 3D modeling and animation lessons learned in the previous modules, students are introduced to the Autodesk Maya software which will give them more power and flexibility.

 

The instructor demonstrates a set of tools and procedures while the students observe. Then the students try them out. The process is repeated for the next set of tools.

 

Concepts of craftsmanship are observed and practiced. 

 

Time is allotted for questions and review.

 

Topics for demo and practice:

File management

User interface

Transformations

Primitives

Materials

 

Modeling – polygonal only

Object mode

Component mode – vertices, faces, edges

Extrude tool

Loft – use the polygons option

 

Animation

Time slider

Key frames

Graph Editor

Kinematics – both forward and inverse

Skeletons

IK handles

Attaching geometry/binding skin

 

Texture mapping

File type textures

Projection mapping

UV texture editor

 

 

Discussion of features which are and are not supported by Performer/DAFFIE

polygons – not nurbs

file textures – not procedural

polygon count

uncompressed image formats

playback speed

 

Primary Educational Objective

To understand and practice the tools and procedures for 3D modeling and animation using Autodesk Maya.

Additional Concepts and Skills

Cartesian coordinate system

Assessment

Evaluate the models and animations for interesting form, materials, motion interpretation, execution, and craftsmanship.

Classroom Activities

Create models, apply materials, animate the objects; try out all of the tools demonstrated by the instructor.

Homework Assignments

 

Lecture Materials

 

Reference Materials

Learning Autodesk Maya 8 Foundation, Official Autodesk Training Guide and DVD

The Art of Maya: An Introduction to 3D Computer Graphics by Alias Learning Tools

Tip Sheet - Exporting obj’s from Maya

Tip Sheet -  Using Maya in the context of creating a virtual environment

 

Prerequisites (this course)

Principles of animation – Lesson plan 10

Building a virtual world – Lesson plan 12

Animation I, II – Lesson plans 17-a and 17-b

Graphics – Lesson plan 20

Pre- and Co- requisites

(other classes)

 

Technology Requirements

Autodesk Maya