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263-5806-00L 6 Credits BSC , MSC , WBZ D-ITET , D-INFK , D-MAVT , D-MATH
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Computational Models of Motion for Character Animation and Robotics

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Bernhard Thomaszewski, Dr. Moritz Bächer, Prof. Dr. Stelian Coros
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:59

Abstract

This course covers fundamentals of physics-based modelling and numerical optimization from the perspective of character animation and robotics applications. The methods discussed in class derive their theoretical underpinnings from applied mathematics, control theory and computational mechanics, and they will be richly illustrated using examples ranging from locomotion controllers and crowd simula

Objective

Students will learn how to represent, model and algorithmically control the behavior of animated characters and real-life robots. The lectures are accompanied by programming assignments (written in C++) and a capstone project.

Content

Optimal control and trajectory optimization; multibody systems; kinematics; forward and inverse dynamics; constrained and unconstrained numerical optimization; mass-spring models for crowd simulation; FEM; compliant systems; sim-to-real; robotic manipulation of elastically-deforming objects.

Resources

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC , WBZ
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
The grade will be determined by:30% project40% assignments30% final written exam (multiple choice)

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Computational Models of Motion for Character Animation and Robotics
  • Wed 14:00-16:00 (ER SA TZ)
  • Wed 14:15-16:00 (HG E 1.2)
2 h weekly
exercise Computational Models of Motion for Character Animation and Robotics
  • Thu 15:15-17:00 (ML F 40)
2 h weekly
independent project Computational Models of Motion for Character Animation and Robotics No time listed 1 h weekly

Offered In