Skeletal Animation
Skeletal animation is a technique in computer graphics for animating characters or objects by using a hierarchical structure of interconnected bones (a skeleton) to deform a mesh or skin. It allows for realistic and efficient movement by defining transformations for bones, which then influence the vertices of the attached mesh. This method is widely used in video games, 3D modeling, and simulations to create lifelike animations with reduced computational cost compared to vertex-based animation.
Developers should learn skeletal animation when creating interactive 3D applications, such as video games or virtual reality experiences, where character movement needs to be fluid and responsive. It is essential for animating humanoid figures, animals, or any articulated objects, as it enables complex poses and motions through bone manipulation, supporting features like inverse kinematics and blending. Use cases include game development with engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, and 3D animation software for films or simulations.