A number of interdisciplinary courses are taught in the Arnold Center.

 

EEN591 : Introduction to 3D Computer Modeling and Animation
Instructor: Ali Habashi
Semester: Fall

     This course covers the fundamental principles of computer animation including 3D modeling, Texture Mapping, Lighting, Character Animation, Inverse Kinematics, Dynamics, Particles, Rendering. This would be done through lecture, demonstrations and hands on experience. Students will be introduced to the procedural architecture of computer modeling, animation and rendering through the concept of Dependency Graphs.

     For modeling students will use Lattices and Flexors to make deformations in their 3D models that could consist of Polygons or NURBS ( Non-Uniform Rational B_splines). They will work with with Shading Groups, Layered Shaders, Displacement and Bump Maps to create sophisticated Textures for their 3D objects. Students will use Skeletons and IK chains to animate their computer generated characters through keyframe or Motion Path animation techniques. They will incorporate Particle Systems and OPTI-FX with emitters, attractors, forces and dynamics, Character Animation with Skeletons, Inverse Kinematics, Blend Shapes and Facial Expressions.

     This course, as well will assist students to develop expertise in analysis of previously made animations, creating short scripts, storyboards, production schedule and finally creating a short CGI film.

EEN595 : Advanced Digital Compositing, Color Correction and Visual Effects for Film and Video
Instructor: Ali Habashi
Semester: Spring

     Computer-generated visual effects are now used extensively in feature films, commercials, music videos, and multimedia. The backbone of this process, the final and most important step, is known as digital compositing: "the digitally manipulated combination of at least two source images to produce an integrated result".

     This course teaches aspiring film, video, and multimedia students how to create mattes; manipulate time; track, view, and analyze images; create 2D and 3D composites using keyers, Garbage Mattes, Trackers, Color Corrections, Grain Management, work with various film and video formats; and understand the issues of quality versus efficiency.

     It as well covers a wide range of topics from basic image creation, representation, and manipulation, effects to a look at the visual cues that are necessary to create a believable composite.

EEN596 : Advanced 3D Character Design and Motion Capture for Computer Games
Instructor: Ali Habashi
Semester: Spring

     This course focuses on the skills real game artists use daily to create characters and environments. It also introduces the students to the entire game art development pipeline, learning everything from modeling, texturing, rigging, Motion Capture and animation, to special effects. This would help the students master the skills and techniques they need to excel in the competitive games industry which would include how to create a game model using a concept image as a guide, Model with predetermined real-time polycount limitations in mind, Prepare a model for texturing with UV mapping and layout techniques, Create different kinds of textures, Master the rigging process, from setting up a skeleton to preparing blend shapes.

     This course would also cover Motion Capture, the technique of isolating the movement of a real person and applying it to a computer-generated character. This would include setting up the animated character, choosing the capture system, directing the talent in the suit, understanding the anatomy of both the character and the talent and how the two must relate, and understanding and tweaking the captured data. This course would also cover different Modules of a Game Engine including Physics Module, Collision Detection Module, etc.