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263-5806-00L 8 Credits BSC , MSC , WBZ D-ITET , D-INFK , D-MAVT , D-MATH
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Digital Humans

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Stelian Coros, Prof. Dr. Siyu Tang
Previously Computational Models of Motion and Virtual Humans
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:23:14

Abstract

This course covers the core technologies required to model and simulate motions for digital humans and robotic characters. Topics include kinematic modeling, physics-based simulation, trajectory optimization, reinforcement learning, feedback control for motor skills, motion capture, data-driven motion synthesis, and ML-based generative models. They will be richly illustrated with examples.

Objective

Students will learn how to estimate human pose, shape, and motion from videos and create basic human avatars from various visual inputs. Students will also learn how to represent and algorithmically generate motions for digital characters and their real-life robotic counterparts. The lectures are accompanied by four programming assignments (written in python or C++) and a capstone project. The deadline to cancel/deregister from the course is May 1st. Deregistration after the deadline will lead to fail.

Content

- Basic concept of 3D representations - Human body/hand models - Human motion capture; - Non-​rigid surface tracking and reconstruction - Neural rendering - Optimal control and trajectory optimization - Physics-based modeling for multibody systems - Forward and inverse kinematics - Rigging and keyframing - Reinforcement learning for locomotion

Resources

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC , WBZ
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
The grade will be determined by:40% mandatory assignments and 60% final project presentation and report.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Digital Humans
  • Wed 14:15-16:00 (HG E 1.2)
  • Thu 10:15-11:00 (CAB G 61)
3 h weekly
exercise Digital Humans
  • Thu 16:15-18:00 (ETF E 1)
2 h weekly
independent project Digital Humans No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In