EU-funded researchers win Academy Award
A Scientific and Engineering Academy Award has been awarded to a team of European researchers whose collaboration was supported by Marie-Curie fellowships from the EU's Research Framework Programmes. Bill Collis, Simon Robinson and Bent Kent of UK visual effects company The Foundry, and video processing expert Anil Kokaram of Trinity College Dublin were awarded the prize for the design and development of the Furnace software tool, which is used to enhance visual effects in motion picture sequences. The Furnace software uses new algorithms which permit the tracking of every pixel in a frame to subsequent and preceding frames, meaning that tasks such as removing wires used for flying actors or objects can now be done automatically; previously they were removed manually frame by frame. Other effects offered by the software include grain reduction, image stabilisation, adding motion blur and super resolution. According to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, 'The Furnace toolset's modularity, flexibility and robustness have set a high standard of quality for optical flow-based image manipulation.' High profile films which have benefited from using the software include Casino Royale, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, X-Men 3 The Last Stand and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 'We are absolutely delighted to have our innovation recognised by the Academy,' commented Bill Collis, The Foundry's Head of Research and Development. 'We continuously strive to deliver real solutions and cutting-edge technology for the motion picture industry, and to receive such a high accolade is a great honour.' Thanking his customers, Dr Collis added, 'Their requirements for technology that pushes the boundaries of what is possible, willingness to trial our new motion estimation application, and eagerness to share their views, have made a huge contribution to Furnace and helped it to become the success it is today.' 'It's great to see European expertise being honoured at such a prestigious event,' said EU Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik, congratulating the team. 'The Furnace software is just one of many examples of technological and scientific advances that are supported by the European research programmes, and have applications that give an extra edge to important European industries, such as film.' Under the Several Framework Programme (FP7), the Industry Academia Partnership and Pathways Fellowships will promote cooperation between the two sectors by offering researchers staff secondment opportunities.
Countries
Ireland, United Kingdom