FauxThrow: Exploring the Effects of Incorrect Point of Release in Throwing Motions

Our aim is to develop a better understanding of how the Point of Release (PoR) of a ball affects the perception of animated throwing motions. We present the results of a perceptual study where participants viewed animations of a virtual human throwing a ball, in which the point of release was modified to be early or late. We found that errors in overarm throws with a late PoR are detected more easily than an early PoR, while the opposite is true for underarm throws. The viewpoint and the distance the ball travels also have an effect on perceived realism. The results of this research can help improve the plausibility of throwing animations in interactive applications such as games or VR.