The combined solution provides a real-time production process for capturing AR character-talent interactive content
Pixotope, a provider of live photo-realistic virtual production systems, today announced a collaboration with Xsens and IKINEMA to simplify and automate the production of real-time AR character animation and real-time AR character-talent interaction.
“Real-time animation and live virtual character puppeteering has been one of the most asked-for features from our customers, but also one of the most costly and difficult types of production to do. By partnering with Xsens and IKINEMA, we have collectively created the solution our customers are looking for.”
Pixotope, Xsens and IKINEMA together recognise that broadcast and virtual production customers need cost-efficient and easily accessible tools to be able to leverage the potential of real-time character animation and puppeteering, and are committed to working together to give customers the best end-to-end tools, support and services to achieve this.
“When we first encountered Pixotope™ and its unique features, we immediately saw the huge potential and we are pleased to be their partner for live motion capture. Our goal is to support Pixotope in bringing this exciting live technology to the broadcast industry and further simplify the user experience. This partnership is significant for both companies.”
From today Pixotope flagship product, Pixotope™, will ship with plug-and-play integration for both Xsens and IKINEMA products, which enables Pixotope™ customers to access world-class real-time motion capture and live character animation tools, directly inside Pixotope™.
“The need for highly believable augmented characters that behave naturally and dynamically inside virtual sets are important factors to immerse and engage viewers—we’re delighted to advance Pixotope™ customers with our quality LiveAction technology. Together with Pixotope and Xsens we’re taking them into the next generation of live broadcast.”
“We see a rising trend in the broadcast industry requiring real-time virtual character interaction. By partnering with Pixotope and Xsens we bring the power of IKINEMA LiveAction retargeting and real-time animation clean up into the Pixotope™ pipeline, providing an end-to-end solution.”
Representatives from all three companies will be present at NAB (8-11 April, Las Vegas) on Pixotope NAB stand (SU12702) demonstrating the combined solution on all four days of the exhibition.
About Xsens
Xsens is the leading innovator in 3D motion tracking technology and products. Its sensor fusion technologies enable a seamless interaction between the physical and the digital world in applications such as industrial control and stabilization, health, sports, and 3D character animation. Clients and partners include Electronic Arts, NBC, Universal, Daimler, Autodesk, ABB, Siemens, and various other leading institutes and companies throughout the world.
About IKINEMA LiveAction
IKINEMA LiveAction enables users to live-stream, retarget and clean motion capture data, taken during an actor’s performance. The technology boasts zero lag – meaning there is no latency between the actor performing the motion, instant retargeting, and viewing on the virtual avatar. Characters move with authentic human or creature behaviors and interact with props in their virtual environments, all performed within Unreal Engine 4. LiveAction works with any motion capture system and is an out-of-the-box solution for IKINEMA Orion, Xsens, Optitrack, and Vicon. Prominent clients include Digital Domain, Disney ABC Networks, Disney ESPN, Dreamworks Animation, Epic Games, Goodbye Kansas, GREE, Inc., Kite & Lightning, Madison Wells Media, Nexon GT, Oath Inc, Original Force, Perfect World, Rede Globo, Smilegate, Stiller Studios, Tencent NEXT Studio, WB Games Inc., Wright Flyer Live Entertainment, and many more.