Query-by-example for motion capture data

Abstract

Motion capture datasets are employed widely in animation research and industry, however there currently exists no efficient way to index and search this data for diversified use. Motion clips are generally searched by filename or keywords, neither of which incorporates knowledge of actions in the clip aside from those listed in the descriptions. We present a method for indexing and searching a large database of motion capture clips that allows for fast insertion and query-by-example. Over time, more motions can be added to the index, incrementally increasing its value. The result is a tool that reduces the amount of time spent gathering new data for motion applications, and increases the utility of existing motion clips.