Abstract: Representing a connection between objects in a simulation includes identifying, on a source object to be used in a simulation process, a source point that is available for creating a connection to another object. On a target object, a target point is identified for use in creating the connection. At least one of the source object and the target object is a rigid object. A spring element having respective ends at the source point and the target point is created, and at least one property thereof is set. A system includes an animation module, and a simulation module that performs a simulation process involving creating, and setting a property of, a spring element having respective ends at a source point on the source object and a target point on the target object.

Abstract: Representing a connection between objects in a simulation includes identifying, on a source object to be used in a simulation process, a source point that is available for creating a connection to another object. On a target object, a target point is identified for use in creating the connection. At least one of the source object and the target object is a rigid object. A spring element having respective ends at the source point and the target point is created, and at least one property thereof is set. A system includes an animation module, and a simulation module that performs a simulation process involving creating, and setting a property of, a spring element having respective ends at a source point on the source object and a target point on the target object.

Abstract: A to-be-animated creature is set up by creating a rig, defining connection points on the rig, and associating geometry with the rig via the connection points. The set up creature is then animated by moving the creature with user defined actions which move a part of the rig. When one part of the rig moves, the remaining parts follow.