This section explains a few Python basics and lists each of the customized PoserPython methods, including explaining functionality and providing syntax and use examples. It provides a certain level of background and behind-the-scenes explanations that will put the PoserPython types and methods involved into context.
Note that this chapter assumes that you have at least a basic level of understanding about the Python scripting language. While it does explain a few basic Python concepts in order to add clarity and context, this chapter is not intended to teach you Python. There are numerous excellent sources of information for learning Python, many of which are available for free.
Python (named after Monty Python’s Flying Circus) is a high-level, interpreted, object-oriented scripting language first developed in 1989 by Mr. Guido van Rossum and first released as free software in 1991 after extensive testing. It is an extremely powerful and easy-to-learn language that runs on virtually all platforms and that can be extensively customized and modified to run with other applications (such as Poser) and programming languages. Because it is free software, Python is freely usable and can be distributed free of charge. Python’s inclusion of a number of high-level data types as well as dynamic typing makes it easy for users to get their job done without the implementation hassle common to lower-level languages.
PoserPython is a customized implementation of the Python interpreter that includes many commands not found in the standard Python releases. This customization integrates Python with Poser and provides you with an extensive list of easy-to-use commands that can greatly reduce the time you spend performing repetitive tasks in Poser.
One of PoserPython’s best features is that you do not need to be a programmer to begin enjoying its benefits. Poser includes a number of useful sample scripts that can be executed by clicking a button. You never have to see a line of code, and none of your friends will ever label you as a programmer! That said, another of PoserPython’s best features is that you can “get under the hood” to write scripts that will do just about anything. PoserPython gives you virtually full control over your Poser documents including figures, props, lights, cameras, scenes, etc. and their building blocks and parameters. As you can see, PoserPython benefits both novice and expert alike!
PoserPython also includes the Numerical Python extension, which loads automatically when Poser starts up. Many geometry methods use this extension for fast manipulation of vertex, set, and polygon information. Please refer to http://www.numpy.org/ for more information.
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