Automated Vehicle Articulation and Animation: A Maxscript Approach

This thesis presents an efficient, animation production-centric solution to the articulation and animation of computer generated automobiles for creating animations with a high degree of believability. The thesis has two main foci which include an automated and customizable articulation system for automobile models and a vehicle animation system that utilizes minimal simulation techniques. The primary contribution of this thesis is the definition of a computer graphics animation software program that utilizes simulation and key-frame methods for defining vehicle motion. There is an emphasis on maintaining efficiency to prevent long wait times during the animation process and allow for immediate interactivity. The program, when implemented, allows for animation of a vehicle with minimal input and setup. These automated tools could make animating an automobile, or multiple automobiles of varying form and dimensions much more efficient and believable in a film, animation, or game production environment.