When a model’s bones are named differently from the names recognized by MotionBuilder, you need to map out each bone manually before the model can be characterized.

To manually map and characterize a character:

1. Load a character model into the scene.
2. From the Templates > Characters folder of the Asset browser, drag a Character asset into the scene.

   A Character asset is added in the Scene browser and the Character Settings open in the Navigator window.

3. Activate the Lock option in the Scene browser to keep the Character Settings open for the duration of this procedure.
4. Switch to the Character Definition pane and view the Mapping List. Expand the Base (required) group of slots.
   

   Character Definition pane A. Base (required) objects

   The words <Drop Object Here> currently display for each required slot in the Mapping List because the model’s bones have not yet been mapped.

5. In the Viewer window, switch to the Schematic view (Ctrl-W), then press A to frame the hierarchy. Each of the bones in your character’s hierarchy are represented by rectangular nodes.
   

   Character hierarchy in the Schematic view

   You may find it easier to select bones using these nodes in the Schematic view.

6. Select a bone, then Alt-drag it into the Mapping List of the Mapping List. Drop each of the character’s bones into the corresponding slot of the Mapping List.

   For example, if you select your character model’s left thigh bone, you would Alt-drag it into the LeftUpLeg field in the Mapping List.

   Repeat this step until you have dragged all of the required bones into the Mapping List. The Character mapping is now complete.

7. Activate the Characterize option at the top of the Mapping List.
8. A dialog box appears to remind you that your model must be in a stance facing the positive Z-axis. Choose between two types of postures for your character (Biped or Quadruped) to continue.

After characterizing your character, you cannot make any changes to the Mapping List. To make changes, you must disable the Characterize option to remove characterization.