Softimage’s Swift 3D XSI gets New Exports

Softimage and Electric Rain have announced the upcoming release of the Swift 3D XSI plug-in that will allow Softimage XSI users access to key vector-based 2D formats, including Macromedia Flash (SWF). With this technology, animators and digital artists using Softimage's flagship software product – Softimage XSI - will be able to re-purpose their 3D content for use on Web pages and in printed media. Ravix II, Electric Rain's industry-leading vector rendering technology, converts 3D model meshes into vector-based gradient shaded 2D images, and forms the core of the Swift 3D XSI plug-in. The new plugin offers access to four vector formats, Flash (SWF), SVG, EPS and AI. The plug-in can render with a variety of animation styles, from cell animation to shaded models with gradient fills. Fine detail is preserved for technical drawings, while the gradient fills preserve the realism of the original 3D scene. The plug-in is scheduled to ship in August 2001, and will be available from Electric Rain's Website at $475.