Implementation of controllable avatars for virtual reality applications

In this paper, we describe an implementation method that enables users to real time control their avatars that is real and complex shaped in a three-dimensional virtual world. We realized an avatar using quasi three-dimensional models (texture mapped a still or moving picture onto a quasi three-dimensional model) and moving picture (animation), enabling movement and actions to be performed in real time according to user operations. This avatar has the following characteristics. 1) The avatar is highly precise. 2) Avatar actions can be controlled in real time. 3) The avatar has smooth actions. We also describe an evaluation of our implementation method. A prototype system consisting of avatars capable of performing walking action using a quasi three-dimensional model comprised of five polygons and a virtual three-dimensional shared space containing these avatars was created, and the effectiveness of this system was confirmed.