Stan Stoneking

US Patent:

59823909, Nov 9, 1999

Filed:

Mar 24, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/823440

Inventors:

Stan Stoneking - Antelope CA
Brian C. Fries - Auburn CA

International Classification:

G06T 1570

US Classification:

345474

Abstract:

A method and system support the definition, authentication, and enforcement of constraints on speech, appearance, movements, associations, and other properties that are used to suggest or exhibit the personality traits and behaviors of animated characters. The system includes a controlling object and one or more personality objects running in any of a wide range of software and hardware environments. Zero or more personality subobjects may be associated with each personality object. The methods provide steps for authenticating an object, controlling associations between objects and subobjects, controlling events involving one or more objects, controlling the proximity of personality objects to one another, controlling the distribution of objects, and mandating the use of auxiliary objects under specified circumstances.