Mixamo makes Auto-Rigger free for low-poly meshes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tuwr0wkqtV0
Mixamo’s Auto-Rigger in action. The online service is now free for models under 10,000 triangles.
Mixamo has made its Auto-Rigger free to use for models under 10,000 triangles. The online tool generates basic full-body rigs for biped characters that can be imported into 3ds Max or Maya.
Users simply upload models to the Mixamo website, position markers on screen over the figure’s chin, wrists, elbows and knees, then download the auto-rigged character.
The auto-rigged model can then be converted to Maya format or a 3ds Max biped or CAT rig via the free import scripts provided. The scripts are compatible with Maya 2009 and above, or 3ds Max 2010 to 2012.
Models must be uploaded in FBX, OBJ or BVH format and be under 30MB in size. Uploading in the T-Pose helps, although quick tests suggest the Autorigger does a reasonable job even with non-standard poses.
Rigging characters over 10,000 triangles costs $89.99.
Mixamo also offers an online character animation service, enabling users to blend and retarget motions from its library to create custom animations: a service now directly accessible from within 3ds Max 2013.