Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2021 - IAT 343 D100

Animation (3)

Class Number: 6686

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 11 – Apr 16, 2021: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Minimum of 24 units, including MATH 130 or MACM 101 or MATH 150 or MATH 151 or MATH 154 or MATH 157.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to techniques for 3D computer animation such as keyframing, performance animation, procedural methods, motion capture, and simulation. The course also includes an overview of story-boarding, scene composition, lighting and sound track generation. The course will explore current research topics in computer animation such as facial animation, behavioral animation, artificial life and interactive systems.

COURSE DETAILS:

An introduction to techniques for 3D computer animation such as 3D modeling, 3D rendering, keyframing, performance animation, procedural methods, motion capture and simulation. The course also includes an overview of storyboarding, scene composition, cinematography and visual effects. The course will explore current research topics in computer graphics and animation such as Physically Based Rendering, programmable shaders, facial animation, behavioral animation and their use in artificial life and interactive systems.  Creative concepts and analysis in Animation as media art will be developed through course readings, screenings, discussion and activities. Tutorials and Labs will be held online so a newer computer with 16 GB+ RAM with a good CPU is required, tablet computers or older laptops won't meet the requirements. The course uses Autodesk Maya - so please check if that will work on your computer. Online labs will cover modeling, texturing, rendering, rigging and animation. The course has a perpetual Discord server for support and discussions.

Course outcomes include a portfolio of creative project work and a short animation production.

Grading

  • Final Team Project 40%
  • 3 Quizzes 15%
  • 3 Individual 3D CGI assignments 30%
  • Class and Lab Participation/Reviews 15%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students may wish to download the educational version of Maya, along with supplemental tools.

RECOMMENDED READING:

“The Art of 3-D Computer Animation and Effects” (2009) by Isaac Victor Kerlow; 4th Edition; Wiley ISBN: 9780470084908

The Pushing Points Topology Workbook: Volume 01 by William C. Vaughan


The Animator's Survival Kit: A Manual of Methods, Principles and Formulas for Classical, Computer, Games, Stop Motion and Internet Animators by Richard Williams


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2021

Teaching at SFU in spring 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).