Motion Laboratory

The purpose of this research is to develop educational applications using Web3D technologies and human animations gathered by motion capture systems. I have developed an interactive rule book that plays 3DCG animation corresponding to the basic motion of rhythmic gymnastics. This system allows control of each animation and viewpoint changes in 3D space. It also allows the display of educational advices with text and images in 3D space. As a result of an evaluation test by a coach and active athletes, this system was evaluated as a useful learning tool for beginners, and junior and high school students.

The purpose of this research is to segment the basic steps of ballet automatically. We have analyzed nine basic poses of the lower body, since basic poses are defined at the beginning/ending point of each step. First, basic poses are classified based on ballet theory. Then, the corresponding information of their three-dimensional coordinates is analyzed according to the center of gravity, feet position, and non-axis foot position. We have verified this analysis method by using motion data performed by professional ballet dancers. As a result, our proposed method offers the possibility of identifying each of the nine basic poses.

I have developed a real-time CG control system using a LEMUR that is a multi-touch controller. The use of a LEMUR offers important advantages: the parameters can be controlled in real time, two or more parameters can be controlled at the same time, and its interface can be freely designed. A trial system was developed mainly as a basic system for broadcasting usage. This system controls CG characters, reproduction of animation, and image effect. Moreover, an application system has been developed by combining such systems. This work confirms that a LEMUR is suitable for controlling CG objects in real time.