Mudbox's
user interface is a 3D environment that allows the creation of movable
cameras that can be
bookmarked.
Models created within the program typically start as a
polygon mesh that can be manipulated with a variety of different tools. A model can be
subdivided to increase its resolution and the number of
polygons available to sculpt with. 3D
layers allow the user to store different detail passes, blending them with multiplier sliders and layer masks. Using layers, the user is able to sculpt and mold their 3D model without making permanent changes. As a detailing app, Mudbox can import and export .obj, .fbx, and .bio files, as well as its own .mud format. A typical workflow is to create a relatively simple (low polygon count) model in a 3D modeling application and then import it to Mudbox for sculpting. Subdivision of models occurs using the
Catmull-Clark subdivision algorithm. The sculpting tool set contains an assortment of brushes with adjustable falloffs. The use of 3D layers allows for design visualization, non-destructive sculpting, and high polygon counts. Since the layers combine additively, their ordering is unimportant for the final model and may be created arbitrarily. Curves can be created and projected on a mesh for use as precise masking. Standard transform and selection tools are included. Paint layers were added in Mudbox 2009. Design visualization plays an important role in Mudbox's production value. Simple poly primitives can be created from within Mudbox, facilitating the creation of busts, props, terrain, etc. Mudbox also includes stamps and stencils. Stencils work by overlaying a
grayscale, or "alpha channel" image, such as a
bump map, over the mesh. The artist can then project part or all of the image's detail onto the mesh through brush strokes, providing a method to quickly sculpt surface detail. The underlying architecture of Mudbox was updated in Mudbox 2009, to allow the sculpting of models with larger polygon counts compared to earlier versions. In Mudbox 2009, 3D painting and texturing features were introduced to allow artists to paint directly on their models in 3D. In addition, features to display the model with a depth of field and
ambient occlusion were added for the release. In Mudbox 2010, an
application programming interface (API) was introduced via a
software development kit (SDK). In addition, functionality to improve file interoperability with other 3D applications (Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max etc.) was added via the FBX file format. == Interface ==