Time Range Manager

Allows you to edit and save a collection of named time ranges and access them via a dropdown list to change the scene time range based on their time settings.

Ranges are stored as a collection called sets. Multiple sets are then stored as a collection called projects.

The data is stored in INI files and so makes it independent of any maxfile.

There's also a compact option by clicking the thin bar above the ranges list.

See online guide in links section. 

Compact Mode

Additional features include:

Time Tags

Edit scene time tags using the ranges data and transfer this data between scene time tags, loaded ranges or a text file for easy name editing. Create time tags using the interface in the format name [space] startTime [dash] endTime by typing a sequence name, dragging the time slider then clicking Start, drag again and End.

FBX Export Animations

Export animations to FBX format using either the currently loaded Ranges or Time Tags as the source for the exported animation name and time range. Both options allow for exporting either the whole scene (if nothing is selected) or by selection. The output files will be saved to the current Max scene folder.

Optionally choose some exposed FBX settings via a separate dialog.

Note: FBX will always attempt use the keys set on the selection which will override any time range you've set or specified in the time tags - as keys may exist outside of the range. For this function to work correctly, you should animate your rig indirectly by constraining the export bones to other control objects that receive animation data. This way when you select the export bones (that your mesh may be skinned to), they won't have keys directly on them and FBX will use whatever time range is set instead.

Separate Maxfiles

Split a composite maxfile animation (many sequences one after another) into separate maxfiles based on stored ranges or time tags. The script will remove all keys on selected objects either side of a specific range then move the remaining keys within the range to start at frame 0. The time range will then be adjusted to fit and a new maxfile saved into the same scene folder as the original composite animation file.

Note: Only tested on regular controllers, CAT rigs and Biped. The use of expressions, constraints, or parameteric controllers may not work.

Camera Switching

Cameras in the scene will be recognized by the ranges dropdown list, based on a range name prefix matching the camera name.

The currently selected viewport will switch to the camera (if available) automatically.

For example:

Camera names - Cam1,  Cam 2 and Cam3

Latest Updates:

Version 2.8;

- Added a toolbar icon.

- Added a link to the online guide in the About section.

- Updated FBX export settings to Max 2023.