Introduction

This page explains how to download and run the style and character editor presented at Siggraph 2010. This application only works under Windows.

Get cartwheel.zip from the downloads section. Unzip it in the directory of your choice and run simbicon.bat.

How to use the editor

You can click the Play button to start the default walk. At any point in time, for example if the character falls down, click the Rewind button to restart from the initial pose.

Showing and hiding the style editor is controlled by checking the Edit style checkbox. You can edit the character shape by clicking the Edit character checkbox.

Editing the gait parameters

You can use the Speed, Duration and Width sliders to modify the character's walking speed, the stepping frequency and the step width, respectively. Be careful: extreme values will generally make the character fall down.

Editing the motion style

In the style editor, you can manipulate any yellow handle in the side or front view. If you want to add or remove a keyframe, simply check one of the three box in the top row. You cannot edit the swing foot position at the beginning or end of a stride, but you can edit it mid-stride.

Editing the character shape

In the character editor, play with the yellow handles to change the body shape. Once you're satisfied, click on the Create button. If you want to go back to the initial character, click Reset character. To create an asymmetrical character, uncheck Symmetrical.

Extremely large or small limbs will result in overly light or heavy body part. These usually don't behave well and may cause the character to fall.

Going further

The editor is full of hidden features that are not quite ready for prime time. If you want to push things further, download the code and start playing with the python scripts. You can also discuss the project or ask questions on the Forum. Don't hesitate to propose ways in which the editor could be made better!