FBX (FilmBox)

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Introduction

FBX (FilmBox) is a file format for 3D models, animations, and scenes. It is a universal exchange format developed by Autodesk for sharing and transferring data between different 3D software. The FBX format supports a variety of elements including geometric shapes, materials, animations, bones, etc., and can preserve the associations and hierarchical structures between these elements.

File Structure

Header: Contains metadata such as file version information, creation timestamp, creator information, etc.
Objects Container: Stores all 3D objects, models, cameras, light sources, etc. in the file.
**Node: **Each 3D object is represented as a node in FBX, containing transformation information such as position, rotation, scale, and possible child nodes.
Geometry Data: Includes vertices, indices, normals, UV coordinates, etc., which define the shape and structure of the model.
**Materials & Textures: **Describes the visual appearance of the object, such as color, texture, etc.
Animation Data: Contains keyframe sequences, which describe the changes of objects over time and are used to achieve animation effects.
Connections: Defines the connection relationship between objects, such as the connection between bones and models.

Pros

Rich functions and features: FBX files can save a variety of elements including geometric data, material mapping, animation effects, lighting settings, etc., providing comprehensive support for 3D production.
Cross-platform compatibility: FBX format has good interoperability between different 3D software (such as 3ds Max, Maya, UE, etc.), supports the transmission of models, materials, actions and camera information, and improves the efficiency and flexibility of 3D workflows.
Preserve element associations and hierarchical structures: FBX format can preserve the hierarchy of models and the timeline of animations, allowing users to maintain good workflows and data integrity between different software.
Wide range of application scenarios: FBX files are suitable for multiple fields such as 3D animation, game development, virtual reality, etc., and can be used to create, edit and exchange various types of 3D content.

Cons

Large file size: Since the FBX file format saves more elements and data, the file size is usually large, which may affect the transmission and loading speed in some cases.
**Learning and use cost: **The FBX file format may require a certain learning and familiarization process in use and processing, and there may be a certain threshold for beginners.
Not supporting certain special effects: FBX files do not support deform, hair effects, etc. If there are many deformers in the binding, or the topology structure is complex (such as plant growth animation), it may not be exported. In addition, the FBX format can only support one layer of bones and one layer of blendShape, and the deformer effect cannot be exported.
Compatibility issues: Although the FBX format has wide compatibility, there may still be compatibility issues in some specific software or platforms, which require additional format conversion or adjustment.

Application Scenario

The FBX format has a wide range of applications, especially in the fields of 3D animation, game development, and virtual reality. It can be used to create, edit, and exchange various types of 3D content, including character models, environment scenes, special effects animations, etc.