The H-Anim+ System: An Open Source Hardware Accelerated Human Avatar Browser API

Adopting open standards such as the X3D and H-Anim reduce costs and ensure the longevity of applications involving human avatars. However, graphics hardware currently requires customized of vertex shader programming to optimize rendering. Yumetech, Inc. and Vcom3D propose the H-Anim+ Browser API: a generic vertex-skinning scheme for the H-Anim specification. The Phase 1 objective is to develop a generic scheme for applying a vertex-skinning program to an H-Anim compliant model using NVIDIA's Cg language. The technical approach for Phase 1 is to adapt the Xj3D Toolkit-a Java-based, open source API for creating VRML 97 and X3D applications-for the prototype H-Anim+ browser. Both companies will perform benchmark performance tests and document Phase II objectives and tasks based on results of the proof-of-concept implementation. COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: Both Yumetech, Inc. and Vcom3D envision a wide range of commercial applications growing out of the Phase 1 work. Potential markets extend to all areas of the economy. Computer-based training and simulation using realistic, digital human actors are primed for for rapid growth. Ergonomic design and safety testing are also potential markets for this application. The Yumetech Team has identified the general markets for this product to include military, law enforcement, emergency response units and the gaming industry.