Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/225858
spot L I G H T Side Effects Unveils Houdini 13 with Finite-Element Solver Side Effects Software has released Houdini 13, which introduces a finiteelement solver for bending and tearing FX, a new multithreaded particle architecture integrated into Houdini's existing dynamics context, and a new lighting workflow to efficiently handle massive data sets. The finite-element solver analyzes the stresses on solid objects, then either bends or breaks each shape. This new solver is ideal for creating realistic destruction shots or soft- body FX with volume preservation. The new particle architecture has been fully integrated into the dynamics context to provide seamless interaction with other simulation tools. This vex-based framework is multithreaded and allows for speeds up to 10x faster as well as cached results for scrubbing in the timeline. There are also new particle tools and forces, including Axis Force, which uses 3D volumes to control particles. Houdini 13's new lighting workflow has been built to efficiently manage huge datasets. This new workflow offers a data tree view for assigning materials and lights to the objects and groups found in Alembic files as well as Houdini's new Packed Primitive objects. Houdini 13 can be downloaded from sidefx.com, with base Houdini available starting at $1,995 and Houdini FX starting at $4,495. Adobe/Maxon Cineware Connection Gets Tighter The latest release of Adobe After Effects CC includes updates to Cineware, improving the integration and performance between Maxon's Cinema 4D application and Adobe's After Effects. Since the introduction of After Effects CC, creative professionals have benefitted from the seamless integration provided by Cineware that establishes a bridge between the Maxon and Adobe applications and allows users to open any 3D file that Cinema 4D supports directly in After Effects that can be edited and enhanced using the "Live 3D pipeline. " Compositing passes can also be selected directly in After Effects for editing. This version of After Effects CC includes the debut of Cinema 4D Lite, a limited yet feature-rich version of Cinema 4D integrated within After Effects that gives artists access to a selection of the software's functionality. Many updates in the new release of Cinema 4D, Release 15, are also available in the latest version of After Effects CC. They include an Options Dialog Box, rendering enhancements, an upgrade path to Cinema 4D. 6 ■ CGW Nove m ber / Dec em ber 2013 RTT Acquires Bunkspeed RTT, a leading provider of professional high-end 3D visualization solutions, has acquired Bunkspeed, Inc. With more than a decade of experience operating in the visualization marketplace and a versatile design tool, Bunkspeed completes the RTT portfolio of comprehensive products. Traditionally, RTT has provided enterprise solutions and services for OEMs that employ digital product pipelines. Bunkspeed represents a company with a focus on design visualization tools. The acquisition extends RTT's services to agencies and designers by offering this lightweight, robust design tool. Peter Stevenson, CEO of RTT USA, says, "The addition of Bunkspeed's specialty services and footprint will allow RTT to provide a broader range of capabilities to our customers. " Bunkspeed will continue to operate under the same name and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of RTT. he incorporation of T Bunkspeed will take place over the upcoming months, and both companies note that the clients will continue to receive the same support during the transition that they have always enjoyed. David Randle, general manager of Bunkspeed, states, "The acquisition of Bunkspeed by RTT will provide major benefits to our existing and future customers. They bring a level of global presence, knowledge, support, and expertise that will complement and enhance our core offerings. " Steven Madge, managing director of the Pasadena, California, office has been named CEO of Bunkspeed, Inc.