Convert ANIM to BVH

Understanding ANIM and BVH file formats

ANIM files are animation data files commonly used in 3D modeling and animation software, such as Autodesk Maya. They store keyframe animation information for objects, skeletons, or rigs within a scene. BVH (Biovision Hierarchy) files, on the other hand, are a standard format for motion capture data. BVH files contain both the skeleton hierarchy and the motion data, making them widely used for transferring motion capture animations between different 3D applications.

Why convert ANIM to BVH?

Converting ANIM to BVH is essential when you need to use animation data from Maya or similar software in applications that require the BVH format, such as game engines, motion analysis tools, or other 3D animation software that supports BVH for character animation.

How to convert ANIM to BVH

There is no direct one-click converter for ANIM to BVH, but you can achieve the conversion using Autodesk Maya and a BVH export plugin or script. Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Open your animated scene in Autodesk Maya.
2. Ensure your animation is applied to a skeleton or rig compatible with BVH export.
3. Install a BVH export plugin, such as fbx-conv or Autodesk's BVH Exporter script.
4. With your skeleton selected, go to File → Export All or File → Export Selection.
5. Choose BVH as the export format (if available) or use the installed plugin/script to export as BVH.
6. Configure export settings as needed, then save your BVH file.

If you do not have access to Maya, you can try converting ANIM to FBX first, then use a tool like Blender to import the FBX and export as BVH.

Recommended software for ANIM to BVH conversion

• Autodesk Maya with BVH Exporter plugin or script
• Blender (for FBX to BVH conversion)
• fbx-conv (for converting FBX to BVH)

These tools provide the most reliable workflow for converting animation data from ANIM to BVH format.