Motion Capture Investigation - KinemaLab
Comparative evaluation of motion capture technologies at KinemaLab. Tested Rokoko Smartsuit Pro with 19 sensors for narrative content and Move.AI phone-based capture for indie productions. Documented accuracy, setup time, and post-processing workflows. Produced integration guides for Unreal Engine, Mixamo retargeting, and Blender cleanup.
⚡ Challenges
- •Cross-system comparison methodology
- •Real-time streaming stability
- •Retargeting to diverse character rigs
✓ Outcomes
- ✓Comprehensive workflow documentation
- ✓Production recommendations published
- ✓Adopted workflow at 2 studios
📖 Full Details
This research investigation evaluated motion capture technologies for film and animation production, comparing professional hardware solutions with emerging AI-powered alternatives. Conducted at KinemaLab, the study documented workflow efficiency, data quality, and production readiness of each approach.
The Rokoko Smartsuit Pro, a sensor-based motion capture suit, was tested across multiple performance scenarios: dialogue scenes, action sequences, and subtle emotional performances. The 19-sensor configuration captures full-body motion with finger tracking when combined with Rokoko Gloves. Data streams to Unreal Engine via LiveLink, enabling real-time character animation during capture sessions.
Workflow evaluation covered the complete pipeline from suit calibration through final animation. Strengths included portability (no external cameras required), outdoor capture capability, and real-time preview. Limitations included occasional magnetic interference, drift requiring periodic recalibration, and finger tracking accuracy.
Move.AI's phone-based motion capture was evaluated as a cost-effective alternative. Using two iPhone cameras positioned orthogonally, the system reconstructs full-body motion through AI pose estimation. While less accurate than sensor-based approaches, the minimal hardware requirements (just phones and tripods) dramatically reduce barrier to entry.
Comparative analysis documented accuracy measurements, setup time, post-processing requirements, and suitability for different production scenarios. The investigation produced recommendations for production types: Rokoko for narrative content requiring reliable quality, Move.AI for previsualization and indie productions.
Final deliverables included a workflow guide for Unreal Engine integration, Mixamo retargeting procedures, and Blender cleanup techniques for both capture methods.
