Abstract: A user interface allows an operator to control the visual focus of digital, CG characters and/or physical robotic characters. An interface with one or more tiered shapes is overlaid on a video feed of the digital or physical character's surrounding environment. An operator can move the overlaid tiered shapes around the video feed with a standard input device like a mouse, stylus, or joystick to control the visual focus of the digital or physical character.

Abstract: A user interface allows an operator to control the visual focus of digital, CG characters and/or physical robotic characters. An interface with one or more tiered shapes is overlaid on a video feed of the digital or physical character's surrounding environment. An operator can move the overlaid tiered shapes around the video feed with a standard input device like a mouse, stylus, or joystick to control the visual focus of the digital or physical character.

Abstract: A method for designing and fabricating a robot utilizes 3D modeling tools and techniques. The method begins with creating a digital three-dimensional model of the robot. A 3D mechanical structure for the robot is designed based on the digital model. Aesthetic (typically external) and mechanical (typically internal) components based on the digital model and mechanical design are fabricated utilizing rapid prototyping machines and techniques. Other components are obtained or fabricated according to the 3D model and mechanical structure as needed. The aesthetic and mechanical components are then assembled into a completed robot.

Abstract: A method for animating a robotic device utilizes 3D modeling and animation tools and techniques. The method begins with creating a digital three-dimensional model of the robotic device. Using the digital three-dimensional model, one or more digital animations for the robotic device are created. These digital animations are converted into hardware control values used by the robotic device's hardware control system. The converted control values are then sent to the hardware control system for the robotic device.