Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to integrating external 3D models into a character creation system. In general, a character creation system imports an external 3D model by determining correspondence values for each vertex within the 3D model. Once imported, a user can customize the 3D character by adding texture to the character, adjusting character features, swapping out one or more character features, adding clothes and accessories to the character, automatically rigging the character, and/or animating the character.

Abstract: Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention enable collaborative creation, transmission, sharing, non-linear exploration, and modification of animated video messages. One embodiment includes a video camera, a processor, a network interface, and storage containing an animated message application, and a 3D character model. In addition, the animated message application configures the processor to: capture a video sequence using the video camera; detect a human face within a sequence of video frames; track changes in human facial expression of a human face detected within a sequence of video frames; map tracked changes in human facial expression to motion data, where the motion data is generated to animate the 3D character model; apply motion data to animate the 3D character model; render an animation of the 3D character model into a file as encoded video; and transmit the encoded video to a remote device via the network interface.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to integrating external 3D models into a character creation system. In general, a character creation system imports an external 3D model by determining correspondence values for each vertex within the 3D model. Once imported, a user can customize the 3D character by adding texture to the character, adjusting character features, swapping out one or more character features, adding clothes and accessories to the character, automatically rigging the character, and/or animating the character.

Abstract: A hydraulic and pneumatic cylinder (10) for use on a vehicle (100) to improve the handling of the vehicle in a turn or curve. The cylinder repositions the rear wheel (108) of the vehicle in response to a change in the speed of the vehicle. When the vehicle enters a turn and decelerates, the piston of the cylinder moves to the extended position. When the vehicle exits the turn and accelerates, the piston of the cylinder moves to the compressed position.

Abstract: A clutch brake particularly adapted for use with heavy duty automotive vehicle clutches, the clutch brake including an annular base comprised of a pair of initially separate sections incorporating radial interlocking teeth which permit the clutch brake to be assembled and installed on the driven shaft of the clutch without requiring disassembly of such driven shaft.