15-505 and 60-414 Assignments

Setting Things Up

Instructions on logging in
Note: if you make these dot files from a PC you MUST make sure that each line has a carriage return and doesn't have the ^M character.
You can also use the script put together by the folks running the videogame class by making the obvious modifications in course number.

The keys are different under linux than under windows. You can fix this by following the instructions here:

go to help/library menu in maya
click installing/linux
go to User notes
go to Linux desktop configuration
follow the instructions from there

Disk Space on Linux boxes

We've created two directories of scratch space on the linux boxes: /usr0/15-505 and /usr0/60-414
Feel free to store things temporarily in those directories. They are not backed up however, so do not leave your source files there long term.

Assignments

Assignment 1: Animating in Maya
Each student is to build an object by manipulating a primitive shape. Then substitute the object you make for the ball in the bouncing ball exercise in the text pages 27 to 84. The ball should be replaced with multiple primitive shapes that are grouped and where at least one has had the geometry altered in some way.
Assignment 2: Modeling in Maya
Create a fully articulated model and animate it.
The primitive man demo in the book (pp 311-377) is an example of how to rig a humanoid figure. Note that the additional joint on the bottom of the foot works only on the ground plane that is established in the exercise. If you plan to use the model in another situation it is advised that you do not rig it with the additional foot joint
Storyboard: Each student will pitch a story on Monday and Wednesday of next week. To do so you will need to create 5-10 essential storyboard images. You may use any software (or pencil and paper) to create them. But they must be numbered and in jpeg format. The first image must be a title card and include the name of the person who made it. Put the images in your folder on the art server. Come to class on Monday and Wednesday prepared to pitch your story.
There is a storyboard file on the art server for your storyboard projects. The direct link is: ftp://artserver.cfa.cmu.edu/Server%20HD/Volumes/Advanced_ETB/artntech/Story boards/
You will need to use the class name and password which was sent out via email.
Your storyboards should be in the artserver by NOON on SUNDAY. Siobhan will be putting them into a powerpoint document. If you have any problems uploading on Sunday you can email her at srigg@andrew.cmu.edu
Your images should be in in a folder with your name on it. They should be in jpeg format numbered in order.
Assignment 3: Programming in MEL or C++

Implement a grouping behavior similar but not identical to what was demonstrated in class. Feel free to be more creative! You must have at least 20 moving objects and at least a few interesting behaviors for them. Turn in frames and your script so that we can load it while grading. Post an explanation of what you did to Blackboard.
Handouts: class outline , xerox of user interface chapter, and the demo system .
Final Project: demos during the final exam slot in May
The final projects will incorporate examples of MEL/C++ programming. We will collect ideas for elements of the animations that might be enhanced in this way throughout the semester. Here is a preliminary list:
- Incorporating motion capture data easily
- Non-photorealistic rendering techniques. See this site for sample scripts.
- Simulation of passive elements (other than fluids/cloth/fur/particles)
- Controllers that use audio to create animation in models.

Jessica Hodgins