Motion Lab

The Motion Lab is a rapidly reconfigurable interdisciplinary space for motion research and advanced technology performance investigation. The multi-use facility houses an optical tracking system for large volume motion capture as well as intelligent stage capabilities including flexible media control and a full suite of theatrical audio, sound, lighting, and media interaction and projection resources.

This research environment engages collaborators from the fields of dance, animation and interactive design, music, theater, art, computer science, architecture, history, psychology, veterinary sciences and more. Our newest research direction is Virtual Reality Storytelling and Virtual Production. The lab also fosters projects ranging from motion capture for animation and gaming, data archiving and visualization, to intermedia dance and projection design.We have partnered on several projects focusing on analysis of human and animal motion.

The 2500 sq. foot room has a sprung wood floor for comfortable movement and includes 12 Vicon motion capture cameras, Faceware Tech facial capture rig, Oculus Rift and HTC Vive VR systems, multiple HD projectors, LED lighting, A&H Q16 digital sound board with a 6.1 speaker set up and ETC Ion light console. Five computer workstations provide interactive real-time control using software such Vicon Blade, Unity, Steam VR, MotionBuilder, Faceware Tech Live Client, Isadora, Max/MSP/Jitter, and QLab. View a full technical inventory [pdf] for more.

Motion Lab research outcomes are presented as lecture demonstrations, technical papers, exhibitions, and performances at conferences, symposia, festivals, galleries, science museums, theatrical venues, online, and in print publications. The lab promotes collaboration with researchers and artists from within as well as outside The Ohio State University.

ACCAD also educates people on the use of optical motion capture technology and data integration into other software packages in order to make motion capture a meaningful element of their work. Full use of software and hardware is taught each year in our Motion Capture Production and Experimentation course, intermedia performance practices are taught in our Devising Experiential Media and Intermedia courses, and and computer music is taught in Composition with Electronic Media. 

Current and ongoing research projects are presented annually during the ACCAD Open House, during the Motion Lab Open Studios, and at other times as sponsored lecture demonstrations, installations, and performances.

Call for Proposals (rolling application, no deadline)

The Motion Lab is always open to proposals for research projects by OSU students, staff and faculty and others that involve motion capture and/or performance technologies. First priority for lab use will be given to funded research projects, and then every effort will be made to open the lab for other important initiatives across the University. Please contact Michael Hesmond or Vita Berezina-Blackburn if you are interested in proposing a research project in the Motion Lab.