VT Project
Summary of Activities
Jan-1-00 to Feb-10-00
Background Research:
- Searched the Web on all aspects of project
- Searched for polygonal models of football players
- Researched animation software packages
- Visited Michigan Football staff, obtained videos, discussed playbook software
- Visited Human Motion Simulation Center at UofM, discussed file formats for animations
- Explored playbook software PlayMaker Pro, talked with author
- Established direct contact with Boston Dynamics Inc., arranged visit & demo
- Contacted Viewpoint Digital (prices and details regarding models)
- Created Web site for project
Acquisitions:
- Books on animation, 3D Studio Max, VRML, football, and other topics
- Sega Dreamcast system with NFL 2K
- Poser 4 animation software
- S-video and RCA cables (NA&ME)
- Used TV monitor (from NA&ME)
Currently Selected Software:
- Java for Chart Program
- C++, Performer, and CaveLib for CAVE program
- 3D Studio Max for modeling and for animation
- Poser 4 for animation
Animations:
- Learned and experimented with 3D Studio Max and Poser 4
- Studied data transfer and file formats for 3D Studio Max and Poser 4
- Created simple animations, tested transfer to CAVE program
- Studied models and animations in Sega Dreamcast
- Studied existing file formats for animations and motion capture (BVA, BVH, ASF/AMC)
Exchange Protocol for Chart Program and CAVE Program:
- Derived a common class structure
- Developed a file format for data transfer
- Agreed on coordinate system and units
Chart Program:
- Selected Java as platform-independent programming language for Chart Program
- Learned basic Java concepts
- Implemented, tested, and finalized first version of Chart Program
- Graphical user interface allows to:
- create, edit, delete the path of a player
- animate all players
- automatically generate player's orientation
- write/read data files describing player's movements
CAVE Program:
- Developed loader for data files from Chart Program
- Developed CAVE Program that moves players according to data file
- Developed initial CAVE control and navigation
Last Update: March 4, 2000 by beier@umich.edu