A group of Carnegie Melon researchers recently developed a new type of animation software that makes it easier for designers to reproduce organic movements. The new software is called 'Dranimate' and it is designed to simplify the animation process.
The new software relies on Leap Motion technology, which is a computer hardware device that allows individuals to use their finger motions as input. This technology allows a user to map their fingers to specific nodes on hand-drawn silhouettes. The nodes operate as joints and allow the user to move the figure with their hands. The effect can be thought of of as a digital marionette, where each movement of the cartoon corresponds to a finger movement by the user.
The Dranimate software dramatically reduces animation time, while also providing an intuitive platform for storytelling.
Digital Puppetry Software
This Animation Software Allows Users to Control Designs with Their Hands
Trend Themes
1. Organic Movement Reproduction - The trend of developing animation software that simplifies the reproduction of organic movements, such as the Dranimate software.
2. Gesture-based Input - The trend of utilizing gesture-based input devices like Leap Motion technology to control digital designs.
3. Intuitive Animation Platforms - The trend of creating animation software that provides a user-friendly and intuitive platform for storytelling, like Dranimate.
Industry Implications
1. Animation Software - The animation software industry can benefit from developing similar software solutions that simplify the animation process and reduce time.
2. Gesture Recognition Technology - The gesture recognition technology industry has the opportunity to explore and improve hardware devices like Leap Motion for intuitive design control.
3. Digital Storytelling - The digital storytelling industry can leverage intuitive animation platforms like Dranimate to enhance the storytelling experience.