Date: Aug 02, 2011 Author: Rick DeMott Source: Animation World Network (
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Press Release from PhaseSpace Inc.
The new PhaseSpace IMPROV is the first motion capture solution under $20,000 that bridges the gap between affordability and professional quality. Working with HP's Workstation division, PhaseSpace leverages the power of the HP Z Workstations to produce a professional motion capture solution at an affordable price. The IMPROV system features an HP Z210 Workstation along with the patented active marker LED technology that eliminates marker-swapping, 8 cameras with 3600x3600 resolution, and a easy-to-use streamlined operation with an advanced Skeleton Solver to automatically fix gaps due to occlusions. Starting at $19,950, it delivers professional quality motion single person capture at a reasonable price.
In addition, PhaseSpace is also demonstrating a dynamic new IMPROV add-on for capturing fine hand and finger motion detail. The Glove Box is a gesture tracking system that allows the artist to create complex gestures and finger motions in real-time. Normally an artist would take hours to key frame a gesture such as picking up and drinking from a cup, or doodling with a pencil having to make each wrist movement and finger bend look correct. Gestures that could take hours for a skilled animator could be performed in seconds with the Glove Box and exported in real time so the artist can experiment with different motions, speeds, and gestures, improving quality and creativity. Using a 8 camera IMPROV system, users can quickly produce excellent detailed hand and finger animation in real time.
Also being Demonstrated at the Studio, The Virtual Camera is a real-time virtual camera system for both the IMPULSE and IMPROV motion capture systems. The Virtual Camera is an integration of the HP Slate 500, a HP Z210 Workstation, and PhaseSpace's active marker technology.. It allows the user to pre-visualize camera movements in a virtual scene in real time within a MotionBuilder session. A Virtual Camera user might be a director or game producer. The user can make adjustments to the actors and sets on the spot. With complete control over the shot, the production process is shortened and production cost is lowered.
Please visit PhaseSpace in the Studio at SIGGRAPH 2011 in Vancouver to see the technologies that make professional motion capture affordable.
