Class Character Design and Motion Capture

This course unit's main objective is to equip students with the knowledge and techniques needed to create looping character animations using MOCAP motion capture. The programme covers everything from 3D modelling of the character (optimised for a real-time engine) to the creation of animation systems (HumanIK) and texturing processes. Throughout the course, students will develop a 3D project intended for the subsequent creation of an executable preview in Unity, in order to present a looping character animation of a single action.

Not applicable

Fundamental principles and concepts of motion capture and its application in digital animation. Planning and preparation of a motion capture session: technical setup and choice of movements. Planning the design of an articulated character. 3D modelling of an articulated character in biped, hard-surface format, for animation. UV layout for characters with a single unique layout. Texturing process: development and application of PBR (Physically Based Rendering) textures on articulated 3D models. Creation of a biped rig using the Maya HumanIK character animation tool. Skin process. Application of the retargeting animation process (HumanIK) using motion-capture-recorded animations. Refinement of animations using Animation Layers. Creation of loop animations. Export and implementation of assets (models, animations and materials) in a game engine. Recording of a preview of the work done in the game engine.

Tutorials on the subject matter taught are provided. Use of the Discord platform for project guidance and follow-up, as well as for clarifying questions outside of class time.

DELBRIDGE, M. (2015). Motion Capture in Performance: An Introduction. New York: Palgrave MacMillan. KINES, M. (2000). Planning and Directing Motion Capture for Games. Gamasutra. LIVERMAN, M. (2004). The Animator's Motion Capture Guide: Organizing, Managing and Editing. Hingham (Massachusetts), Charles River Media MENARD, M. (2012). Game development with unity. Boston: Cengage Learning. O'NEILL, R. (2015). Digital Character Development: Theory and Practice. Boca Raton: CRC Press. PALAMAR, T. (2016). Mastering Autodesk Maya 2016. Autodesk Official Training Guide. Indianapolis: John Wiley & Sons. WILLIAMS, R. (2001). The Animator's Survival Kit. London - New York: Fabber and Fabber