Tangible and Modular Input Device for Character Articulation

摘要

Articulation of 3D characters requires control over many degrees ofrnfreedom: a difficult task with standard 2D interfaces. We present arntangible input device composed of interchangeable, hot-pluggablernparts. Embedded sensors measure the device’s pose at rates suitablernfor real-time editing and animation. Splitter parts allow branchingrnto accommodate any skeletal tree. During assembly, the devicernrecognizes topological changes as individual parts or pre-assembledrnsubtrees are plugged and unplugged. A novel semi-automatic registrationrnapproach helps the user quickly map the device’s degreesrnof freedom to a virtual skeleton inside the character. User studiesrnreport favorable comparisons to mouse and keyboard interfaces forrnthe tasks of target acquisition and pose replication. Our device providesrninput for character rigging and automatic weight computation,rndirect skeletal deformation, interaction with physical simulations,rnand handle-based variational geometric modeling.