SCRIPTS : on the description of computer animated images

Abstract

The problem of specification of temporal transformations for Computer Animation production is investigated. Based on this analysis, an interactive animation language is developed which supports both procedural and key-frame animation. It is a flexible software environment for the design and prototyping of animation programs and interfaces. The language is implemented in C within the UNIX operating system, and consists of C-like expressions, built-in functions, script and track constructs. There is also an escape mechanism to run UNIX commands. C-like expressions are the regular arithmetical, logical and control of flow operations. Built-in functions are C functions incorporated in the language. Scripts are time programs that are executed in parallel to generate animation. Tracks are time variables used to define dynamic animation parameters. A small set of animation tools is also developed to exemplify the system's utilization. These include a three dimensional geometry model interface library, a spline library, and simple mechanics, collision detection and inverse kinematics functions.