3D animation and modeling play significant roles in computer simulation and video game software. Game developers need to have a comprehensive understanding of these techniques. This course introduces algorithms for specifying and generating motion for graphical objects. It addresses practical issues, surveys accessible techniques, and provides straightforward implementations for controlling 3D moving entities with different characteristics. The class covers two broad categories. Students will first learn an interpolation-based technique, which allows programmers to fill in the details of the motion or shape once the animator specifies certain basic information, such as key frames, paths, coordinate grids, or destination geometry. Then, they learn a behavior-based technique, which generates motion that satisfies a set of rules, such as kinematics, physics, or other constraints.
Prerequisites
CS 300, CG 130, MAT 300