FoldMeshFX

Create unfolding animations from selected polygons with flexible settings

$17.95

Get it free with PolyFX
One-time purchase · No subscription
Version1.02
Compatibility3ds Max 2010 - 2027
LicensePaid
DocumentationUser guide

Description

FoldMeshFX is a 3ds Max plugin that animates objects unfolding from selected polygons. It provides full control over timing, direction, sequence, and geometry adjustments, while adding natural swinging effects for realism. Additional options for naming, grouping, and material assignment make it versatile for motion graphics, visualization, and production-ready workflows.

Documentation

View the user guide here.

Requirements

3ds Max 2010 - 2027

Installation

  1. Unzip the archive FoldMeshFX.zip.
  2. Copy the FoldMeshFX folder to 3ds Max 20xx\scripts.
  3. Drag FoldMeshFX_Macro.mcr into the viewport to install the macro.
  4. Open Customize > Customize User Interface and locate it under Group: Main UI > Category: BodyulCG.
  5. Optionally assign the macro to a hotkey or drag it onto a toolbar for quick access.

Frequently asked questions

What does FoldMeshFX actually create in the scene?

Standard keyframe animation on object transforms (position, rotation, scale) — no vertex animation, no procedural mesh. The result is fully editable in the timeline, compatible with any renderer, and works without the plugin installed.

Do I need to install FoldMeshFX on every render node?

No, installation on render nodes is not required.

Have more questions? See the FAQ for general topics including purchasing and licensing.

Known issues & workarounds

Issue: Error "The transformation matrix for object contains a zero scale in (x/y/z)" while rendering in Mental Ray or IRay.
Workaround: Bake the animation into the animated vertices using the Bake Animation tool, then you can render it without errors.

Support & updates

If you need assistance or have questions, feel free to reach out via the contact form.
For update requests, please include your order number.

Changelog

v1.02
  • Fixed bug with animation if the "Auto Key Default Frame" option in preferences is off.
  • Fixed bug with rotation of polygons.
v1.0
  • First version.