Animation Fundamentals: Black Boxes
A black box is my name for some form of electronic control, usually a programmable microprocessor. I tend to eschew such devices for two reasons: One, all of the "action" takes place on a chip, which creates something of a mystery as to what's going on, hence the term "black box." And two, I get immense satisfaction from designing, building and operating old-fashioned mechanical devices. Some incredibly sophisticated animation is possible entirely by mechanical means; and as for lighting, things such as stoplights and chaser lights were originally controlled by mechanical devices in real life.
While it is true that mechanical devices are difficult, if not impossible, to "reprogram" to produce different sequences, this is a non-issue for the kinds of animation effects I create. Still, this is not to say it's "wrong" to employ black boxes merely because I don't; my philosophy is "whatever works," and if microprocessor control is someone's preference, I'm all for it. I regret, however, that there are no primers or tutorials on them in this e-book.
Also See...
|
|