Data-driven Shoulder Inverse Kinematics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a data-driven inverse kinematics method for the shoulder complex that enables natural and realistic shoulder motion generation, improving character animation quality especially for novice animators.

Contribution

It presents a novel shoulder IK technique that interpolates measurement data to produce natural shoulder movements based on the upper arm orientation.

Findings

Enables natural shoulder motion generation

Improves character animation quality

Facilitates novice animator use

Abstract

This paper proposes a shoulder inverse kinematics (IK) technique. Shoulder complex is comprised of the sternum, clavicle, ribs, scapula, humerus, and four joints. The shoulder complex shows specific motion pattern, such as Scapulo humeral rhythm. As a result, if a motion of the shoulder isgenerated without the knowledge of kinesiology, it will be seen as un-natural. The proposed technique generates motion of the shoulder complex about the orientation of the upper arm by interpolating the measurement data. The shoulder IK method allows novice animators to generate natural shoulder motions easily. As a result, this technique improves the quality of character animation.