How to Reduce Cache Size for RBD Simulations in Houdini

Tutorial / 25 May 2024

Managing large cache sizes for Rigid Body Simulations can be a hassle. Did you know that you can save significant disk space by caching geometry only once for the first frame and using lightweight center points for the rest?

Here's how to do it:

  1. Add an RBD I/O node right after your RBD Bullet Solver in the network view.
  2. Set the Storage type to "simulation points."
  3. Use the quick setup to "Cache High Res Geometry" of the first frame, ensuring the Time Shift node saves only the first frame.
  4. Use the quick setup again and press: "Transform High Res Geometry" to make the cached rest geometry follow the cached points.

These steps will help you optimize your Houdini workflow and save disk space.

Watch the full video tutorial:


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