Advanced Applied Maths using Bifrost by Robert Stratton

Ready to build your own industry-standard nodes in Bifrost? This course is your direct path. Forget guesswork; we’re diving headfirst into the math that makes complex rigging possible. If you’ve got a solid grasp on vectors, matrices, and quaternions, you’re ready to tackle this. We’ll build a complete curve sampling system from the ground up, exploring everything from hermite cubic splines to advanced reparameterization techniques.

🎯 What you’ll learn

• Implement various forms of multiplication and programming techniques in Bifrost.
• Derive and understand hermite cubic splines using basis functions.
• Adjust tangents and reparameterize systems using linear remapping.
• Create internal upcurves and series of aim matrices.
• Build a complete curve sampling system from scratch.

✅ Requirements

• Skills: Strong understanding of vectors, matrices, quaternions, and multiplication order.
• Tools: Maya with Bifrost installed.
• Hardware: A computer capable of running Maya and Bifrost smoothly.

📝 Description

This course is designed for those who want to move beyond pre-built tools and truly understand the math behind procedural generation in Bifrost. We’ll start by reinforcing the core mathematical concepts you’ll need, then systematically build a sophisticated curve sampling system. You’ll learn how to derive equations like hermite cubic splines from scratch, manipulate tangents, and implement advanced reparameterization methods. This isn’t just about following steps; it’s about understanding the ‘why’ behind each node and mathematical operation, giving you the power to create your own custom rigging tools for film production.

🧑‍🎓 Who this course is for

• Rigging TDs looking to deepen their understanding of applied mathematics in Bifrost.
• Technical artists aiming to build custom procedural tools for 3D pipelines.
• Anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of curve generation and manipulation in CG.

🧑‍🏫 About the Author

Robert Stratton is a seasoned Rigging TD with over 7 years of experience in the film industry. After graduating from Bournemouth University, his work was recognized at ACM Siggraph 2014. He began his career at MPC, quickly progressing to lead teams on major films like Alien: Covenant and Dr Dolittle. Robert has a deep passion for the technical aspects of rigging, developing a wide array of custom tools and deformers. He currently works at Framestore, continuing to push the boundaries of character rigging.

🏁 Final Result

• A fully functional, custom-built curve sampling system in Bifrost, ready to be integrated into a professional rigging pipeline. This project demonstrates a deep understanding of applied mathematics and procedural node creation.