Maya Python Script Ideas

Here are some ideas for python scripts I have:
1. A script that takes a chosen uv set and copies it into a new uv set and automatically prescales and lays out the uvs. I think this could help save a lot of time in generating lightmaps.
2. A script that automatically orients the normals of a selection to the z axis and creates a 0 to 1 gradient of red vertex color from the bottom to top of the object. This would be useful in setting up grass models to be used with a wind shader.
3. A script that automatically weights an entire model to 1 for the root joint and sets the entire model to 0 for all of the other joints. This would be helpful in setting up a model for rigging.
4. A script that gives a dialogue that allows one to align the pivot to any side of the model with a single button click. This would be useful for setting up modular assets.
5. A script that automatically adjusts the orientation of a model for either y-up or z-up.
6. A script that automatically sets the translation and rotation on an object back to 0, and any scaling back to 1.
7. A script that takes any number of selected objects and randomly distributes them along a curve.
8. A script that automatically creates joints and weights them for cloth based on a vertex selection of the cloth area.
9. A script that removes all unused materials in a scene.
10. A script that automatically creates and aligns reference planes in each viewport.

Racing Game Trailer Research

Here's a trailer for Trackmania 2: Canyon that I like.


One thing that I like about this trailer is how the cars are always leading the movement of the camera throughout the track. I also like the compositions that are created as the camera travels through the architecture of the level. Additionally, I really like the contrast in proportion that is created between the little cars and the massive structures in the environment. Another thing about the trailer that I like is how the movement of the camera matches the tempo of the song. I also find it really interesting that the whole trailer is a single take camera move through the environment. I think this decision works well in giving people an idea of the amazingly intricate tracks that can be created in the game's editor. While I may not use a single camera move, I'd really like to apply some of the other interesting aspects of this trailer towards the trailer that I will make for my racing level.

Racing Level HUD

The references I'm looking at for creating my HUD includes the speedometer from Smart Cars and electric cars. Here are some images.

I also found some references of racing game HUDs. I would like to make my HUD have a fairly simple and clean look like these images.

Here is an initial design for my HUD that I created over a screenshot of my level.