PC Based Accident Reconstruction Animation Using Autodesk 3D Studio

<div class="htmlview paragraph">For sometime, accident reconstruction animation has been limited to graphic workstations running expensive animation software. Only large companies could afford the ability to generate these animations. With the advent of 486 based personal computers and a few specialized, but relatively inexpensive programs, financial considerations are no longer a constraint. Accident reconstructionists can now create their own animations for courtroom presentations.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">This paper discusses how accident reconstruction animation is produced using a personal computer and Autodesk's 3D Studio. An overview of the 3D Studio software package is given, and the application of 3D Studio for accident reconstruction animation is described. Examples are given of the generation of three dimensional geometries, including accident sites and the vehicles involved.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">The process of animating the reconstruction and the assurance of time accuracy is described. The procedure through which the animation is rendered to video is explained. Additional hardware and software which can be utilized to enhance the animation is discussed. The detail, accuracy, and creativity available with a PC based animation are limited only by time spent preparing the animation. The accident reconstructionist has complete control over the entire animating process.</div>