Strengths:
This module has given me an insight into how characters are designed, animated and given a life-like personality. I have been able to experiment with different methods of creating cloth using the cloth and garment modifiers, as well as using the SuperSpray particle emitter for the first time!
I feel I have a better understanding of how character models should be designed to reflect the flow of motion and certainly prevent mesh tearing which can sometimes be unavoidable depending on the nature of the model.
Weaknesses:
One of the major problems I had with this task was the difficulty in creating a workable model mesh that would not suffer mesh tearing on skinning. Alongside this the issues with the skin modifier not binding to the model and the physique tool being slightly messy, not to mention the time spent experimenting with the garment maker have highlighted several weaknesses in my approach methods.
Opportunites:
Previous experience with 3DS Max has allowed me to successfully experiment using different methods to create a simulated cloth appearance on my character and interesting particle effects using the SuperSpray feature. Along with this, I have been able to identify issues with my modelling which will hopefully aid in future productions.
Threats:
I have been unfortunate enough to experience multiple problems with mesh tearing and skinning my model. This has caused me to put alot of time into finding a workable solution which turned out to be a matter of trial and error as at one point, even the physique tool was not binding to the mesh whereas the skin modifier would!