ORCID Identifier(s)

0009-0003-3261-2263

Graduation Semester and Year

2023

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Computer Science

Department

Computer Science and Engineering

First Advisor

Cesar Torres

Abstract

Motion interpolation is a process where an animator transforms jerky frame transitions into rich motions that communicate anticipation, urgency, hysteresis, and even calmness. Animators leverage mathematical functions known as easing curves to modify the rate at which in-betweens are added to keyframes. While effective, easing curves are tedious to tune since they fundamentally lack the ability to encode spatial information. Inspired by timing charts and other standards from traditional cel animation, we introduce a motion animation technique where secondary marks, which we term EaseMark (e.g., hatches, loops), are used to denote motion interpolation decisions. We synthesize an EaseMark Sketching Language and evaluate it through a crowdsourced study. This sketching language is then put in practice in a tool that allows animators to author motion interpolation by sketching or selecting different EaseMarks that affect an object's visual and spatial expression over time. We discuss how secondary marks can be used to expand the expressiveness and utility of sketching languages in other complex design practices.

Keywords

Stylization, Video games

Disciplines

Computer Sciences | Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Comments

Degree granted by The University of Texas at Arlington

31987-2.zip (3635 kB)

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