The 3D application Houdini offers a variety of possibilities for data visualization and generative 3D design.
It is software that, in contrast to other 3D programs, operates on a procedural rather than an object-oriented level. Different properties and actions can be linked together in a network. This allows for the quick creation of different "recipes" that generate, alter, or animate objects. Houdini is used in large productions, in advertising, and for animated films – for example, in Disney's Frozen or Zootopia.
Only through our own experiments can we find out whether the usability, effort, and time factors are worth it for future projects. Renderings from Houdini look simply remarkable. Filled with the fire of this inspiration, we wanted to get an insight into the software – easier said than done. Our object of choice was the semicolon, which can be found in the FHP logo.
Scene 1 – Bubbles: The first scene begins with a random growth of organically appearing bubbles on the surface of the semicolon.
Scene 2 – Dissolve: Subsequently, the shell dissolves into particles that drift away in a cloud.
Scene 3 – Destruction: The core exposed beneath eventually falls to the ground and is destroyed in the process. The moment when the material breaks apart upon impact is dramatically portrayed with super close-ups.
Paper prototypes, screen flow, agenda for user testing
Only after several attempts could the vector file of the semicolon be successfully imported and extruded in Houdini. The subsequent processing of the nodes to create the basic animations took longer than planned. Considering the rendering time, it was a tough decision not to continue with scene 3.
Since the Apprentice version of Houdini only renders in 720p and Mantra takes an extremely long time for animations, the final rendering had to be done in Cinema 4D. This time we encountered another problem. Houdini does not allow exporting to Cinema 4D in this version. Fortunately, with the help of orbolt.com and Julian, we were able to accomplish it. In Cinema, the necessary textures, lights, and camera settings were finalized.
It requires much more training time in Houdini for us, which is currently better invested in Cinema 4D and After Effects. Both the learning curve and the purpose do not justify continuing to pursue Houdini for the time being. However, it was a great experience to broaden our horizons and now have Houdini in our back pocket for when an opportunity arises to try the tool in a new context. At this point, many thanks once again to Julian for his constant willingness and support.