Shenandoah Undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics Conference
at James Madison University, October 28, 2006
Closing Address
Putting a Spring in Yoda's Step
Dr. Tim Chartier, Davidson College
Dr. Tim Chartier, Davidson College
|
|
Abstract: When the
character Yoda first appeared on the silver screen, his movements were
due to the efforts of famed muppeteer Frank Oz. In Star Wars Episode
II: Attack of the Clones, Yoda returned to the movies but this time the
character was not a puppet but a digital image within a computer. This
talk will discuss the role, or more aptly the force, of mathematics
behind a few aspects of movie special effects. Armed with differential
equations, animators can create a believable flow to Yoda's robe or a
convincing digital stunt person. Biography: Assistant Professor Tim Chartier received both a B.S. degree in applied mathematics and a M.S. degree in computational mathematics from Western Michigan University. After doctoral work in applied mathematics at the University of Colorado at Boulder and a VIGRE postdoctoral position at the University of Washington, he arrived at Davidson College in 2003. Professor Chartier's research in numerical analysis and partial differential equations, sometimes in collaboration with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, has been supported by the Department of Energy. This work has afforded Dr. Chartier the opportunity to work with undergraduates in the area of numerical analysis. Professor Chartier serves on the editorial board of Math Horizons, an MAA periodical for undergraduates. He enjoys writing expository articles and has published in The UMAP Journal and Math Horizons. Professor Chartier is also a professionally-trained mime and enjoys combining mathematics and art in public performances. Outside academia, Dr. Chartier enjoys spending time with his family, biking, running, and hiking. |