We have implemented a prototype system of Tablescape Animation.
As shown in Figure 1, users can draw character images and
set rules interactively. In the current implementation, we utilized a
pen tablet (WACOM Cintiq 21UX). As for the rule setting, users assign
conditions for switching illustrations among prepared options.
To display and control the characters, we utilized our tabeltop display
system “Tablescape Plus”[Kakehi et al. 2007]. This system
can project different images both onto the table surface and onto
upstanding physical objects simultaneously. Thus, users can see the
characters and a background image on the tabletop without wearing
any special equipment (see Figure 2). Moreover, the actions of
the characters change according to the rules. Then, users can watch
the generated animation in a computer monitor. Figure 3 shows a
snapshot of the animation.
In the future, we plan to hold workshops for kids with this system
and develop a graphical programming environment to set more various
and complex animation rules and effects in intuitive ways.