BipedPlus
Ep.17 — Customizing 02: Layer System
Download MarkdownThis document explains the BipedPlus default layers and what belongs in each one.
1. Hierarchy is Core, Layer is for Organization
| Hierarchy | Layer | |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Parent/child, Space, constraint relationships | Node grouping, show/hide, workflow convenience |
| Importance | Foundation | Organization convenience |
Layer defines "where things are grouped," not "how they are connected."
Always understand structure in Hierarchy → Layer order.
2. BipedPlus Default Layer Map
| Layer (Role) | Contents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Biped | Biped bones (Bip001…) |
Biped system only |
| Ctrl | Main controllers for animators | Custom Ctrl (bracelet, cape, etc.) goes here too |
| Ctrl_Seg | Twist / Seg detail controllers | Fine-tuning |
| Ctrl_Seg_Pin | Stretch / Squash Pin / Shape | Pin-style controllers |
| Init_Ctrl | Figure mode Init controllers | Setup phase — usually hidden during animation |
| Modeling | Mesh / props | Matches modeling group in Hierarchy |
| Skin | Skin bones | Key for engine export |
| Sys | System nodes | See Sys rules below |
3. Skin vs Ctrl — Role Separation
| Skin | Ctrl | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Mesh deformation · Engine bones | Animator interaction |
| Role | Export reference | Animation UI |
Player users mainly interact with Ctrl (+ Picker) only.
Ctrl vs Ctrl_Seg Criteria
- Whether scale is applied, main controller or fine-detail element
- Adjust to your team's preference. The key is making sure what animators grab and what they don't is clear.
4. Sys Layer Rules
A node belongs in Sys if either (or both) apply:
- Does not need to be in any Hierarchy — just needs to exist in scene
- Animators never need to touch it
Examples: INFO data node, Offset (Ctrl in Ctrl layer, Offset in Sys recommended), Shadow helpers
5. Quick Guide — Where to Place Customizations
| Addition | Hierarchy | Layer |
|---|---|---|
| Mesh (hat, pocket) | Modeling group | Modeling |
| Animator controller | Under Custom Space | Ctrl |
| Twist / detail | Follow module rules | Ctrl_Seg |
| Must not touch | System group | Sys |
| Engine bone | Skin tree | Skin |
6. One Line for Player (Animators)
Edit UI is already hidden. It is best not to touch Init_Ctrl or Sys.
If modification is needed, contact your internal rigger.