Alias-Wavefront
Alias-Wavefront was a pioneering company in the field of Computer Graphics and 3D Animation. Here are some key details:
History
- Founded: Alias Research was established in 1983 in Toronto, Canada, by Stephen Bingham, Nigel McGrath, and David Springer.
- Merger: In 1995, Alias Research merged with Wavefront Technologies to form Alias|Wavefront, Inc.
- Acquisitions:
- Products: Alias-Wavefront was known for its software like Maya, StudioTools, and PowerAnimator, which were instrumental in the development of 3D graphics for film, television, and video games.
Significance
- Alias-Wavefront played a significant role in the evolution of 3D computer graphics:
- Developed tools that were widely used in the film industry for visual effects and animation.
- Maya software became an industry standard for 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering.
- Contributed to major films like Jurassic Park, Titanic, and Toy Story.
Technological Contributions
- Software Development: Alias-Wavefront developed:
- Maya, which integrated features from both Alias and Wavefront's previous products.
- StudioTools, a suite of tools for animation and modeling.
- PowerAnimator, which was used for animation in films and commercials.
- File Format: They also introduced the OBJ File Format, which has become a standard for exchanging 3D geometry between different platforms.
Current Status
- After the acquisition by Autodesk, the brand name Alias-Wavefront was phased out, but its legacy continues through products like Maya, which is still developed and maintained by Autodesk.
Sources:
See Also