SUMIDA, S.S; REDD, J.; BRUDERLIN, A.: Computer Modeling of Complex Integumentary Structures: Digitally Generated Birds and Feathers

Digital modeling of muscles, bones and integument of dinosaurs and mammals has progressed farther than any other group to date. Homeotherms present particular difficulties due to the complexity of their insulating hair or feathers. Modeling complex integumentary structures such as hair is difficult, as most mammals have an enormous number of hairs, and to correctly model the hair, the individual hairs may not pass through one another in three-dimensional space (interpenetration). Although modeling hair is difficult, modeling feathers is significantly more complex. Problems of interpenetration in three-dimensional digital space for structures as complex as feathers are an enormous challenge. Collaborative efforts of biologists, computer scientists, and digital artists have yielded the first digital model of feathers that approaches a realistic morphology and behavior. Although this working model is not a perfect representation of true feathers, it provides the first tool to test hypotheses of feather movement in three-dimensional space. Combining realistic looking and acting feathers with careful reproduction of avian movement can be a significant contribution to the tools of avian functional analysis. The video examples presented are an example of fruitful collaboration between academic scientists and the personnel and corporate resources of the entertainment industry.