degree in animation and vfx la salle campus barcelona

Bachelor in Animation and VFX

Become a professional in 3D computer generated imagery, including special effects and 3D artwork. The Degree in Animation at La Salle Campus Barcelona is the first official undergraduate degree program in Catalonia.

Character FX

Back to Syllabus

Description: 

 No specific prior knowledge is required.

Type Subject
Optativa
Semester
First
Credits
4.00

Titular Professors

Mercè Prats Gaggioli
Professor
Previous Knowledge: 

No es requereixen 

Objectives: 

Character FX is a practical course focused on cloth simulation, grooming and secondary effects applied to 3D characters in animation and VFX productions. Students will learn to master tools such as Marvelous Designer and Houdini (Vellum) to create convincing physical effects

Contents: 

Block 1: Cloth and Object Simulation
•    Marvelous Designer: Digital pattern-making fundamentals and production export.
•    Vellum in Houdini: Constraint setup, fabric properties and collisions.
•    Soft Bodies & Props: Simulation of soft objects and accessories (backpacks, jewellery, add-ons).
Block 2: Grooming
•    Groom Creation in Houdini: Procedural workflow, guide generation and clumping.
•    Hair Simulation: Hair dynamics, interaction with character motion and wind.

Methodology: 

The course follows a project-based learning model:
•    Progressive Exercises: Small technical exercises for each new tool or concept, carried out together in class with step-by-step guidance.
•    Final Project: Knowledge will be applied in two final assignments — one focused on complex cloth simulation and one on grooming.

Evaluation: 

Assessment is continuous and rewards consistency and student progress:
•    Follow-up Exercises: Weekly practical submissions. Presentation and pace are taken into account.
•    Final Cloth Simulation Assignment: Final cloth simulation exercise.
•    Final Grooming Assignment: Final hair creation exercise.
•    Class engagement, proactive participation and improvement based on feedback will also be considered.

Evaluation Criteria: 

•    Technical quality of simulations (physical accuracy, mesh cleanliness, optimisation).
•    Creativity and problem-solving in practical exercises.
•    Progression and improvement throughout the course.
•    Presentation and documentation of submissions.
•    Active class participation and response to feedback

Basic Bibliography: 

•    Houdini Documentation: Vellum Dynamics & Hair Procedurals (SideFX).
•    Marvelous Designer Official Guide: Pattern Making for Digital Clothing.

Additional Material: 

•    Houdini Documentation: Vellum Dynamics & Hair Procedurals (SideFX).
•    Marvelous Designer Official Guide: Pattern Making for Digital Clothing.