Computer Science

Directed Research Project Details

Procedural Embedding of Contact-Constrained Joint Motion

Abstract

Animation packages currently represent biological joints using systems of up to three rotational axes. Biological motions are difficult to replicate because an instantaneous center and axis of rotation must be approximated using translations and rotations about multiple axes. In previous work, joint motion has been produced by the dynamic simulation of forces generated by muscles, ligaments, and contacting joint surfaces. Such simulations produce accurate joint motion, but require a complete musculoskeletal model. Using surface-contact constraints, biologically interesting movements are procedurally embedded from joint configuration key frames. Genetic Algorithms are used to refine movements so that joint surface interpenetrations and separations are minimized. Refined movements are then used for the creation of procedural skeletal animations.