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Linking Objects to the Biped

With the Physique plug-in, you can use Biped to animate a deformable skin, usually a mesh object. However, some animations don't require deformation. For example, a knight clad entirely in rigid metal armor doesn't need to deform as skin does. Also, figures seen from a distance don't require the same degree of realism as figures seen close by.

Jointed character linked with biped skeleton

Characters available commercially often come in two varieties: jointless and jointed. Jointless characters have a seamless mesh at limb joints. Jointless characters should be attached to the biped using Physique. A jointed character has separate objects with ball joint geometry for the limbs, and lends itself to the linking technique described in this topic.

Linking objects and other geometry to the biped can also be used in cases such as the following:

Link a weapon or a flower to the biped hand.
Link eyeballs or teeth to the biped head.
Link extra 3DS MAX bones or splines to the biped to create extra envelopes when Physique is applied.
Link 3DS MAX bones to the biped to automate mechanical assemblies when the biped is keyframed.
Link particle emitters to the biped hands or feet to create smoke or dust.

Note: If you've linked particle emitters or 3DS MAX bones (with the IK controller) to the biped, the Animate button must be on when you reposition the biped.