HRA Launches New Workflow Software For Animated TV Series Production

Hibbert Ralph Animation (HRA) has unveiled Redboard, a software-based system that enhances existing CG workflows by adding and integrating the skills of the traditional storyboard artist.
Redboard improves communication and efficiency and increases confidence for directors and producers, while significantly reducing costs by minimising errors that might otherwise occur in later stages of the production.
Redboard is being demonstrated on Stand 4-405 at MIFA 2009, which runs alongside the Annecy International Animation Film Festival between June 8 and 13 2009.
The software was developed over the last four years by HRA's in-house team, initially to enhance its own CG pipeline for TV series production. However, the company experienced such improvements in quality and cost savings that it decided to market the software. Redboard is particularly suited to the production of animated television series, though it will also benefit CG film production.
HRA and HRTv (HRA's TV production arm) has been utilising the Redboard system on the latest two series of Fireman Sam and previously, Tractor Tom Series Two - in total, 780 minutes of animation.
Jerry Hibbert, Director of Hibbert Ralph Animation, said: "Our experience has been one of significantly fewer corrections, improved oversight and control, and a film that matched the original storyboard precisely - all achieved on budget and to schedule with ease."
The system includes a proprietary 3D storyboarding system that utilises game engine technology to allow the storyboard artist to preview sets and back ground in real-time. Once the storyboard panel has been framed using the 3D background, the storyboard artist can then add characters and props. When the scene is set, the artist can then draw 'digitally' on top of the CG image to rapidly add more detail and expression.
The software ensures that camera framing, scales and proportions are accurate at the storyboard stage, eliminating many problems later in the pipeline. All this is achieved within an artist-friendly interface, making the system quick and easy to use.
Directors can preview an accurate scene, including camera angles, lenses and precise placement of characters and props, with the added details of expression and characterisation. Once approved, the animation department of subcontracting company receives a highly detailed animatic plus precise camera and layout data which vastly reduces costly interpretation errors. Redboard provides the reassurance that the final rendered animation will exactly match the approved storyboard; HRA estimates that this element of the software along can save up to 40% of storyboarding costs and almost completel automates the process of digital layout.
Redboard is available immediately for CGI television series productions as a complete service package, including software licenses, installation, training and support. Licenses will run for the period of the project and prices will be calculated based on the length of the project. Film packages are also available on request.
As well as demonstrating Redboard at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Jerry Hibbert will be taking part in a panel discussion entitled What's New in TV Series? New Tools, New Content, New Public on June 9 at 9:30am at the Chambre de Métiers.
Further information is available at: www.redboard.tv and www.hibbertralph.com.
(KMcA/JM)