Kickstand: Animation Research + Design

Kickstand Tools

Kickstand develops tools and techniques to revolutionize all aspects of animation production. As artists and programmers with experience in animated feature film, TV, and games, our mission is to advance the art of animation through technology.

Kickstand Core Deformation Technology: StretchMesh

StretchMesh is a new paradigm for surface deformation. By using a fast algorithm for relational vertex knowledge, smooth character deformations can be created quickly and with superior results over existing techniques. StretchMesh is implemented as a standard Maya deformer to work seamlessly with and enhance existing work flows.

StretchMesh (32 or 64 bit) is available for Autodesk Maya versions 8.0, 8.5, 2008 on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. Please note that StretchMesh for Maya 8.0 on the MacOS is currently not available and that MacOS builds are for OSX 10.5 - contact us if you are interested in a build for OSX 10.4. Seats are defined by your computer's network card MAC address and this information will be required to generate a license.
High Quality Movie * YouTube

Purchase StretchMesh (for Autodesk Maya) - US$249 per seat
(Bulk pricing is available! Contact info@kickstandlabs.com with any queries.)

Request Free Evaluation License

Kickstand Face Technology: FaceLift

FaceLift is a complete rethinking of how digital character faces can be setup and animated. Built on Kickstand's Core StretchMesh Technology, FaceLift captures the natural stretchiness of the face. Robust enough for stylized or realistic faces and optimized for interactivity, FaceLift can be used to produce an unlimited range of expression. Kickstand's FaceLift puts sophisticated, production-ready, face development tools in the hands of artists and integrates with any production pipeline.
High Quality Movie * YouTube * Coming Soon