89203 3D Digital Animation 2
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Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Postgraduate
Result type: Grade and marksThere are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.
Description
This is a modelling project-based subject that requires students to apply their 3D modelling skills in the design and production of an animation ready environment and character model. The subject requires the creation and manipulation of 3D models and their appropriate application in animation production. Topics covered include advanced computer modelling and topology theory, lighting for production and character rigging basics. Students are also expected to further develop animation production skills, refine their understanding of the different areas of computer graphics in a production pipeline and how they work together.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
| 1. | Develop and demonstrate an understanding of 3D modeling as it applies to the animation production pipeline. |
|---|---|
| 2. | Develop and demonstrate an understanding of CG lighting and texturing to create a scene appropriate for an animation concept. |
| 3. | Demonstrate these skills in the production of an environment and character ready for an animation pipeline. |
Teaching and learning strategies
The learning experience for this subject incorporates a flexible range of teaching and learning strategies including lectures, computer labs, tutorials and specialised master classes focussed on supporting advanced industry standard knowledge and skills computer animation software skills for 3D animation. Advanced models of animation practice and design methodology are explored through computer lab workshops and masterclasses in conjunction with industry practice. Creative and reflective problem solving for 3D animation continues to underpin the learning experience. Self-selected peer learning groups and learning partnerships are encouraged in conjunction with lectures and tutorial / laboratory delivery.
Content (topics)
The subject is largely organised around the production of an environment and character under supervision, covering the following topics:
1. Principles and techniques of environment set modelling.
2. Principles and techniques of character modelling.
3. CG Texturing processes.
4. Lighting a scene ready for animation.
5. Basic character rigging.
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Environment Model
| Weight: | 20% |
|---|
Assessment task 2: Character Model
| Weight: | 30% |
|---|
Assessment task 3: Character Rigged and Placed in Environment
| Weight: | 50% |
|---|
Required texts
Mastering Autodesk Maya 2011, Eric Keller, Sybex ISBN 0470639350
Maya Studio Projects: Dynamics, Todd Palamar, Sybex, ISBN-10: 0470487763
The Complete Reference: Maya 8, Tom Meade, Shinsaku Arima. McGraw Osborne ISBN-10 0071485961
Maya 6 Killer Tips, Eric Hanson, Kenneth Ibrahim, Alex Nijmeh, New Riders Press ISBN: 0321278534
Learning Autodesk Maya 2008: The Modeling and Animation Handbook, Alias Learning Tools, Sybex ISBN-10 1897177380
Learning Autodesk Maya 2008: The Special Effects Handbook, Alias Learning Tools, Sybex ISBN-10 1897177399
Digital Lighting and Rendering, Jeremy Birn, New Riders Press ISBN 0321316312
Digital Texturing and Painting, Owen Demers, Waite Group Press ISBN 0735709181
MEL Scripting for Maya Animators, Mark R. Wilkins, Chris Kazmier, Morgan Kaufmann ISBN 0120887932
Mastering 3D Animation, Peter Ratner, Allworth Press ISBN 1-58115-345-7
Maya Character Animation, Jae-jin Choi, Sybex ISBN 0-7821-4328-8
Stop Staring: Facial Modeling and Animation Done Right, Jason Osipa, Sybex ISBN 0782141293
References
Beckmann, Patricia and Scott Wells. Exploring 3D modeling with Maya 6, Thomson/Delmar Learning, New York, 2004.
Capizzi, Tom. Inspired 3D modelling and texture mapping, Premier, London/Pearson Education, Rocklin, California, 2002.Danaher, Simon. The Complete Guide To Digital 3D Design, ILEX, Lewes, East Sussex, 2004.Franson, David. The Dark Side of Game Texturing, Premier Press, 2004.Kerlow, Isaac Victor. The Art Of 3-D Computer Animation and Imaging (2nd ed.), John Wiley& Sons, 2000.Magnenat-Thalmann, Nadia and Daniel Thalmann. Synthetic actors in computer-generated 3D films, Springer-Verlag, Berlin, 1990Ng, Kian Bee. Digital Effects Animation Using Maya, Charles River Media, 1999.Stripinis, David. The MEL companion [electronic resource]: Maya scripting for 3D artists, Charles River Media, Hingham, Massachusetts, 2003. http://www.lib.uts.edu.au/databases/search_databases.py?subcategory_id=262