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The development of computer animation

What development process has computer animation gone through?In this article, Dr Ming Yan discusses his recent research.

Unlike traditional animation techniques that use frame-by-frame animation of 2D illustrations, computer animation generates successive image frames by building a 3D model. Computer generated animation can also be used to create film videos without using actors, expensive sets, or props.

Bell Telephone Laboratories developed early digital computer animation in the 1960s, and in addition, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory was beginning to produce digital animation.

An early stage in the history of computer animation was the sequel to the 1973 film Westworld, a science fiction film about robots living and working in a human society. Its sequel, Future World (1976), used 3D wireframes, including one with computer-generated animated hands and faces created by University of Utah graduates.

Computer Generated Images CGI short films have been produced as independent animations since 1976. Early examples of feature films incorporating CGI animation include Tron (1982) and the Japanese animated film Golgo 13: the Professional (1983). The first full-length computer-animated television series was ReBoot, which premiered in September 1994. Toy Story (1995) was the first feature-length computer-animated film produced by Pixar. Toy Story proved that it was possible to create a film entirely on CGI. As the first computer-animated feature film in 3D, Toy Story ensured its huge success with its high definition image quality, attractive characters, and compelling storyline.

Toy Story ushered in a new era of animation and film. It revolutionized the way animation is produced and the way movies are made.

The popularity of computer animation has soared in the modern animation era in the United States, especially in the field of special effects. Movies like Avatar (2009) and The Jungle Book (2016) used CGI for most of the movie run, but still used human actors. Avatar was nominated for nine Academy Awards, including best picture and best director, and won three for best art direction, best cinematography and best visual effects.

Your task

What are the advantages of motion capture techniques over traditional computer animation techniques for 3D models?

Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below.

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Introduction to Digital Media

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