Module Descriptors
SPECIAL EFFECTS AND DIGITAL CAPTURE METHODS
ANIM50058
Key Facts
Faculty of Arts and Creative Technologies
Level 5
30 credits
Contact
Leader: Adrian Tooth
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 55
Independent Study Hours: 245
Total Learning Hours: 300
Assessment
  • CWK - A&D weighted at 100%
Module Details
Module Additional Assessment Details
Coursework consists of the following components:
- advanced composite methods [Learning Outcomes 3,4,5].
- motion capture integration [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3].
- digital caputre of recorded information [Learning Outcomes 4,5].

Application and integration of motion capture into an animated sequence [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3].
Use appropriate technology to aid in the construction of an animated production [Learning Outcomes 2,3].
Creation of composite animation based upon research for a specific audience [Learning Outcomes 3,4].
Create a short animated film using available technology [Learning Outcomes 3,5].

All animation content to be presenetd on Mini DV tape only.
Module Texts
Norman I. Badler, Brian A. Barsky, David Zeltzer, "Making Them Move : Mechanics, Control & Animation of Articulated Figures", First Edition, Morgan Kaufmann (February 1991), Language: English, ISBN: 1558601066.
Ron Brinkmann, "The Art and Science of Digital Compositing", First Edition (The Morgan Kaufmann Series in Computer Graphics), Morgan Kaufmann; Book & CD-Rom edition (June 15, 1999), Language: English, ISBN: 0121339602.
Alberto Menache, "Understanding Motion Capture for Computer Animation and Video Games", (Paperback), Morgan Kaufmann (October 1999) Language: English, ISBN: 0124906303.
Michael O'Rourke, "Principles of Three Dimensional Computer Animation", 3rd edition, W. W. Norton & Company, (January 2003), Language: English,ISBN: 0393730832.
Module Resources
Specialist Animation equipment
Motion Capture Equipment
CAD Labs
Digital Media Centre
Sound equipment
Post production equipment
Mini DV deck and Cameras
Printing equipment
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.
Module Learning Strategies
Studio learning takes place in timetabled sessions with academic staff who introduce key contextual and practice based lectures focused on the development of:

- Support technologies for CGi Animation and games production
- Using motion capture techniques to help aid in the construction of characters used within the CGI pipeline
- Development of advanced composite methods of production
- Creation of a team based film that clearly shows your understanding of the technology and where it can be used in industry

Through these initial lectures you will gain an understanding of the core concepts, theory and practical tools necessary to enhance CGi productivity.
Independent study will form the majority of time spent "answering the brief" through evidence of research, preparation of models, studio strategy and application of CGi methods and processes necessary for completion of an appropriate response to the assignments.
You will access studio and pre-recorded material for review and consolidation of motion capture software during the module.
Attendance at Technical Instruction sessions will be crucial for the understanding and use of software applications for digital capture of physical models.
Seminars and group Critiques support your studio practice through formative evaluation and will take place at critical points of the semester to review working progress.
Summative assessment takes place at the end of the module where the work will be presented for final assessment.
There will be two designated tutorials set up to enable students to discuss their work individually with key members of delivery staff.
Module Indicative Content
This module will examine form and dynamics of movement through the research principles in data capture and special effects using a range of software, Combustion, Maya and others. Students will explore how this is incorporated in range of CGi productions.
This module aims to provides an opportunity to enhance animation practice through application of 3D digital capture technology which assists the workflow of an animation production . Essentially students will explore possibilities in the application digital motion capture and technology available to them in taught programmes.
The module will act as a research exercise into assistant technology which supports the complexity of a 3D animation production pipeline and providing students with a substantial acquisition of technical skills which will support there employability in the CGi market.
Advanced 3D modeling will be integrated and students are expected to work in a small team to produce a film.