Diorama engine - a 3D directing tool for 3D computer animation production

Recent advances in 3D computer graphics technologies have enabled 3D computer animation to become a popular method of storytelling. However, the tools which provide access to the technology are targeted mainly at trained professionals, and are seldom easy enough for a director to use. We present Diorama engine, a 3D directing tool for 3D computer animation. Diorama engine is a limited but specialized tool which focuses on ease of scene construction, camera control, and shot editing. This allows for quicker and easier creation of full length video storyboards. Furthermore, the produced 3D data can be directly passed to later production processes, enabling the work of a director to form a data foundation for the production process. A prototype version of our tool is tested, and the experimental results suggest that the directing tool can be integrated into an actual production process.