Joey Ponthieux: 3D Animation and Modeling for Aerospace

On February 8, 2010, the New America Foundation’s Open Technology Initiative welcomed Joey Ponthieux, a 3D Animator
NASA Langley Research Center, to discuss 3D animation and modeling for the aerospace industry from the 1980’s to the present. Accompanied by an impressive demo reel, complete with an Emmy winning promotional piece, Mr. Ponthieux, talked about about the equipment and capabilities from his early career through projects including Hyper-X, the Viking 25th Anniversary, TDT Tunnel, and his current efforts with the ATOL lab and their task to assist in the redesign of the National Airspace Management System. 



The lecture will covered the relevance and importance of 3D animation in providing promotional support for these projects and/or concepts and how CGI has taken on an increasing role in prototyping complex ideas rather than just promoting them. 



Mr. Ponthieux discussed the importance of credibility of animation, such as the importance of making an experimental aircraft look realistic. Although he tries to add “beauty pieces,” usually endings for artistic effect, when appropriate, his chief goal is respecting the data and correctly representing the science.



Established in 1947, the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is an educational and scientific society uniting the world’s computing educators, researchers and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources and address the field’s challenges. ACM strengthens the profession’s collective voice through strong leadership, promotion of the highest standards, and recognition of technical excellence. ACM supports the professional growth of its members by providing opportunities for life-long learning, career development, and professional networking. Currently there are more than 2,200 ACM members in the Washington Metropolitan Area.

This event was co-sponsored by New America’s Open Technology Initiative, DC ACM, and DC-SIGGRAPH. 

Joey Ponthieux is a professional 3D animator with a background in Television Broadcasting, Aeronautics and Space Research, and traditional Graphic Arts. He is self trained in multiple CGI disciplines including Modeling, Motion, Texturing, Lighting, Scripting, and Compositing. He is currently a 3D animator employed by NCI Informations Systems assigned to the Data Visualization and Analysis Lab at NASA Langley Research Center.

Participants

featured speaker
Joey Ponthieux
3D Animator
NASA Langley Research Center