.BVH

Biovision Hierarchy

Learn about .bvh files - Biovision Hierarchy. Find software to open, compatibility information, and alternatives.

Data 11 Searches File Extension Details
.BVH
Biovision Hierarchy

What is a .bvh file?

File Extension Details

The BVH (Biovision Hierarchy) file format is a widely used standard for storing motion capture data, originally developed by the now-defunct motion capture company Biovision. It is a character animation format that describes both the skeletal structure (hierarchy) of a figure and the motion data associated with it over time. The file is divided into two main sections: the 'HIERARCHY' section, which defines the skeletal joints, their names, and their parent-child relationships using a tree-like structure, and the 'MOTION' section, which contains the actual animation data. In the motion section, the file specifies the number of frames and the frame time, followed by the rotation and translation values for each joint at every frame. Because it is an ASCII-based text format, it is human-readable and easy to parse, making it a popular choice for exchanging skeletal animation data between different 3D modeling and animation software packages like Blender, Maya, and 3ds Max. It is particularly prevalent in the fields of game development, film production, and biomechanical research.

Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .bvh files

Windows

Compatible Applications

Blender Compatible
Autodesk Maya Compatible
Autodesk 3ds Max Compatible
Daz Studio Compatible
Poser Compatible

macOS

Compatible Applications

Blender Compatible
Autodesk Maya Compatible
Daz Studio Compatible
Cheetah3D Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

Blender Compatible
MeshLab Compatible

Mobile

Mobile Applications

bvh player Compatible
MotionBook Compatible

Frequently Asked Questions

About .bvh files

To open a .bvh file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • Blender
  • Autodesk Maya
  • bvh player

To convert a .bvh file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software Many programs that open .bvh files also allow you to save or export them to different formats.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert allow you to convert files between different formats without installing software.
  3. Specialized conversion tools: Search for '.bvh converter' to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

  1. Verify the file extension is correct:
  2. Update your software:
  3. Try alternative software:
  4. Check for file corruption:

Like any file type, .bvh files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated.
  • Be especially cautious with executable file types

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