Solution to Common Problems When Animating with Biped and Skin Modifier in 3ds Max

When Keyframes Disappear Mysteriously 👻

Ah, the classic "SetKey works but my animation doesn't move" problem. Don't worry, this happens even to the most experienced animators. Let's solve it step by step.

Problem Diagnosis

From what you describe, there are several possible culprits:

• Incorrect Modifier Order: Skin must be after Mesh Smooth
• Linkage Loss: Vertices may not be properly assigned to the bones
• Biped Problem: Not in "Figure" mode when it should be
• Ghost Keyframes: They are created but not shown

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Check Modifier Order:
   • Select your character
   • The order should be: Editable Poly > Mesh Smooth > Skin
   • If Skin is before Mesh Smooth, drag it down
2. Review Vertex Assignments:

   Pro tip: Use the "Edit Envelopes" button in the Skin modifier to verify that all vertices are correctly assigned to the corresponding bones.

3. Biped Configuration:
   • Select your Biped
   • Go to the Motion panel
   • Make sure it's not in "Figure Mode"

If the Problem Persists

Try these advanced steps:

• Select the entire character and do "Collapse All" to eliminate possible conflicting modifiers
• Create a new Skin modifier and reassign the bones
• Check in the Track View that the keyframes are actually being created
• Try animating just one bone first to isolate the problem

💡 Crucial tip: Sometimes the problem is that the Skin modifier has the "Always Deform" option enabled. Disable it in the modifier properties.

The Dark Side of Animation

When all else fails, remember these three magical steps:

1. Save your scene
2. Close 3ds Max
3. Take a deep breath and reopen

And if it still doesn't work, don't give up. 90% of 3D problems have a solution, the other 10%... well, those end up becoming "artistic features" of the model. 😅

"In 3D, if it doesn't work the first time, try again. And if it still doesn't work, call a colleague to see that obvious error you can't see."