The Name -
The name was created in 1997 by Gary Jesch, to describe
the integrated computer graphics system designed to make
performance animation work in small spaces at trade
shows and special events. With the system, the operator
can produce a "virtual puppet show" using multiple characters
(with multiple systems), created on a computer and animated,
in real time, through the use of very small tools like
the pen and tablet.
The Computer -
The system is currently running on a high-performance Dell
Precision notebook, with the Nvidia Quadro graphics capability.
The 3D graphics are generated in real time with a graphics
accelerator board, in a Direct X10 environment.
The Software -
The system is running the latest version of ToonMX by
Altadyn in Windows Vista. All of our characters run
much faster than 60 frames per second.
Altadyn is located in France, and CHOPS &
Assoc. is the US distribution center for ToonMX
software. You
can download a demo version of the ToonMX software for
free from this site - www.toonmxusa.com.
The lip sync is Altadyn's technology built
into the software, using the sound of the actor's voice
to creating the appropriate mouth shapes. Other expressions
and animation movements are controlled through the use
of a digital pen and tablet.
The "Spy" System -
The system uses a wireless Surveillance System with
one to three cameras and mics placed at strategic locations
near the video display, so that the actor can see and hear
the people talking to him.
The Audio System -
A variety of professional units are integrated into a complete
sound system, if needed, including speakers and amp. These
components are specially selected for their fitness with
the rest of the system.
The
Isolation Booth - We've selected a portable sound
isolation booth that can be quickly assembled and dressed
for use on the tradeshow floor, or backstage at a production.
Made of "eggcrate" foam, it confines the actor's
voice while shielding out unwanted noise from the open
microphone during the presentation. The footprint of
the booth is about five feet by five feet, or 25 square
feet. The isolation booth is not required with the ToonMX
system unless the performance environment is very noisy.
The Video Equipment -
Occasionally, it is necessary to convert the computer's
output to a format compatible with video. The system uses
the Scan Do Pro from Communication Specialties to convert
the VGA signal to composite video, S-video or Beta SP component
video. The Dell Precision notebook can also output a very good
S-video signal.
All of the above items are included in the
booking price.
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