Rigging and animation are separated in the 3D pipeline due to distinct skill requirements and workflow specialization.
- **Skill set differences**: Rigging involves technical tasks like building skeletons, skinning, and designing control systems to enable movement, requiring engineering-like precision. Animation demands artistic skill in manipulating these controls to craft motion, focusing on timing, expression, and storytelling.
- **Workflow efficiency**: Riggers refine controls for flexibility and reliability, ensuring animators have intuitive tools. Animators then focus solely on creative movement, avoiding technical distractions from rig setup.
This division optimizes both roles, balancing technical robustness with creative freedom for high-quality 3D results.