Using kinematic clones to control the dynamic simulation of articulated figures

A new paradigm is presented for the control of dynamic simulations involving articulated figures. A clone of a figure is manipulated by an animator using traditional kinematic control techniques. The realized dynamic simulation is influenced by this animation through dampened spring forces that connect each link to its corresponding link in the clone. Varying tensions dictate the tightness of the correlation between the animated actions and the computed movements of the simulation. This paradigm strikes a compromise between the absolute control of kinematics and the realistic automation of dynamics. Such a compromise is often sought by animators who want realistic motion but do not want to lose the ability to impart feeling and emotion in a character