California based Sven Technologies, Inc has unveiled an inexpensive software program that will let consumers create 3D avatars – pictorial representations of people – on their desktop computers. The program, Avatar Maker allows people with no 3D graphics, design or programming experience to create colorful 3D avatars from scratch. Using features such as BodyBuilder, Facemapper, Wardrobe, Propshop and Pose, users can select, morph, assemble, texture and pose bodies with a variety of 3D heads, torsos, limbs and accessories. The program also makes it easy for users to import their own scanned or digitally photographed images, such as .jpeg or .gif files, in order to create photorealistic avatars of themselves. The company is in the process of developing a generalized platform for simulating large groups of people so advanced 3D graphics environments can be populated with 3D objects carrying built-in animation behaviors. For example, simulations can be generated in a realistic fashion to help urban planners or financial analysts predict group behavior. AvatarMaker 3D 1.0 for Windows 95 and NT retails for $40. Free demos can be downloaded from the Web site at www.sven- tech.com.
