Mobile Character Control System Concealing Operator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile character control systems are limited by the ability of a performer to control only certain parts of a puppet or marionette, which can break the illusion of lifelike movement and may be noticed by the audience, reducing the realism of the simulation.
Innovation Solution
A mobile character control system that includes a platform for an operator, a character assembly with actuatable features, and a control system that allows the operator to control the character's movement from within or remotely, using a combination of actuators and manual controls to simulate lifelike movements while concealing the operator's presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a performer manually controls a puppet or marionette, then the puppet can be animated with human-like movement, but the performer's presence becomes visible and breaks the illusion of lifelike movement
Solution Approach 1:
The performer is extracted from direct visibility by placing them inside a concealed compartment within the character structure. The control mechanisms are integrated into the character body, allowing the performer to operate the puppet from within rather than from outside, thus maintaining the illusion while enabling manual control.
Solution Approach 2:
A control system acts as an intermediary between the performer and the character's external movements. The performer operates controls inside the concealed compartment, which then actuate the character's limbs and features through mechanical linkages, creating a buffer that preserves the illusion of autonomous movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If actuators and motors are used to control character movement, then comprehensive control of all character parts is achieved, but the mechanical nature becomes apparent and reduces realism
Solution Approach 1:
The actuators and control mechanisms are merged into the character's body structure itself. Rather than being separate visible components, the mechanical elements are integrated within the character's form, allowing comprehensive control while maintaining the appearance of a unified organic creature.
Solution Approach 2:
The character is constructed with flexible outer layers and thin structural elements that can move naturally while concealing the mechanical actuators beneath. This allows the actuators to provide comprehensive control coverage while remaining hidden, preserving the illusion of lifelike movement.
3Ease of operation
If the performer is visible while controlling the character, then control actions can be observed, but the illusion of autonomous creature movement is broken
Solution Approach 1:
The performer is nested within a concealed compartment that is itself nested within the larger character structure. This nested arrangement allows the performer to be positioned for effective control while being completely hidden from external view, maintaining the illusion that the character moves autonomously.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile character control system that includes a platform, a character assembly, a control system, and a transportation assembly. The platform is configured to support an operator. The character assembly is engaged with the platform and includes actuatable features configured to simulate movement of a creature. The control system is configured to control activation of the actuatable features of the character assembly in response to signals received from control features controlled by the operator. The transportation assembly is configured to direct movement of the platform, and the transporation assembly is configured to support the character assembly.