AI-Powered Workflows in Autodesk 3ds Max
Learn to integrate AI tools across the full 3ds Max pipeline: generative/assisted modeling, AI texture creation, video-to-mocap animation, and AI denoising for clean, fast renders. We also automate repetitive tasks with MaxScript/Python and ChatGPT. Leave with reusable assets, scripts, and a portfolio-ready scene.
Duration: 30 hours
Teaching Methodology: Hands-on, project-based
Course Schedule: Schedule
Fees $600
Course Mode: Blended — Face-to-face or online via Zoom
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OVERVIEW
This course helps artists, architects, and designers take advantage of AI inside and around 3ds Max. From assisted modeling and AI-generated materials to mocap-driven animation and AI denoising, you’ll learn practical workflows that save time without sacrificing quality.
AUDIENCE
Architectural visualizers, product designers, environment/prop artists, motion designers, and CG generalists seeking a faster, modern 3ds Max pipeline.
PREREQUISITES
Basic proficiency with 3ds Max is recommended (navigation, modifiers, materials). No coding is required—automation modules include guided MaxScript/Python examples.
CERTIFICATION
ETC is an Autodesk Authorized Training Center. International certificates from Autodesk are issued upon completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need advanced 3ds Max skills?
No. Intermediate comfort is enough; we focus on AI-driven workflows with step-by-step practice.
Can I use AI with my existing assets?
Yes. You’ll retopologize imported meshes, auto-generate PBR materials, and clean up/denoise existing scenes for faster results.
COURSE CONTENTS
01 — AI in 3D: Concepts & Setup
- AI in the 3D pipeline: where it helps, where it doesn’t
- 3ds Max essentials for this course (units, scale, scene hygiene)
- Installing helper tools & datasets
- Mini Project: Benchmark a sample scene for render & denoise
02 — Modeling with AI Assistance
- From concept to base mesh: references, primitives, and modifiers
- Retopology workflows in 3ds Max (with external helpers as needed)
- Automated cleanup & topology checks
- Mini Project: Import and retopologize a concept prop
03 — AI Texturing & Materials
- Generate PBR textures from photos/prompts
- Material libraries & naming standards
- Smart UV unwrapping strategies
- Mini Project: Build a 5-material AI library and apply it
04 — Animation with Video-to-Mocap
- Overview of AI mocap from video
- Cleanup and retargeting inside 3ds Max
- Facial animation utilities (overview & pipeline)
- Mini Project: Walk cycle using AI mocap data
05 — Rendering, Denoising & Upscaling
- Render engines overview: V-Ray, Corona, Arnold
- AI denoisers: setup and quality trade-offs
- Post-processing & upscaling pipelines
- Mini Project: Noisy render → AI denoise → upscale
06 — Automation with MaxScript/Python + ChatGPT
- MaxScript essentials for artists
- Python in 3ds Max (pymxs) basics
- Prompting ChatGPT to generate/optimize scripts
- Mini Project: Auto-populate a scene with randomized assets
07 — Visualization & Virtual Production
- AI camera tracking & match moving (overview)
- Look development: style transfer & iterative design
- Packaging deliverables for clients/studios
- Mini Project: Style-transfer look on a product turntable
08 — Capstone Project (4–6h)
- Choose one: ArchViz room, product showcase, or small prop animation
- Integrate AI assets, mocap, materials, and AI-denoised renders
- Peer review, optimization, and presentation