What It Does
quadrateFX generates vector rectangle patterns using treemapping algorithms. Version 1.50 introduced luminance-based quad splitting, which analyzes source image brightness to create adaptive layouts. Darker areas stay larger, while brighter regions subdivide into smaller quads, producing structured patterns that capture the source’s contrast and detail.
Beyond luminance-based generation, the script can produce randomized tiled patterns controlled by sliders for box count, size variation, and horizontal/vertical ratio. Each mode outputs clean shape layers with expression-driven controls.
Key Features
Luminance-based splitting. Sample luminance or RGB values from a custom source layer. Control grid resolution, split randomness, sampling radius, exaggeration, and threshold to fine-tune how the image maps to quads.
Randomized pattern generation. Adjust total box count with a slider. Set size randomness percentage and horizontal versus vertical box ratio. Useful for abstract backgrounds and tech graphics.
Dynamic text layers. Generate text per quad with 12 types: position coordinates, random HEX codes, extrusion depth, and more. Helpful for labeling data or creating detailed HUD overlays.
Color blending. Use an effect slider to shift each quad between two colors dynamically. Makes animating color transitions straightforward.
Mask output for 3D integration. Creates a solid layer with all primary boxes as masks, designed to work with Video Copilot Element 3D. Also useful for displacement maps in 3D applications like 3ds Max.
Expression-driven controls. Every setting lives on the layer as an effect control, letting you keyframe or link parameters to other properties without re-running the script.
Who It’s For
Motion designers building HUD interfaces, infographics, or data visualizations. Also relevant for anyone creating tech-style backgrounds, since the script handles large quad counts (1,000+) and exports clean vectors for 3D extrusion or texture work.
Pricing
quadrateFX uses pay-what-you-want pricing, minimum suggested at $29.99. The developer recommends this price, but you decide the final amount. Requires After Effects CC 2014 or later (CS6 and early CC support dropped in v1.50). No subscription, no tiers.