Getting Started

To run the RaceSketch applet, you will need to install Java Plug-in 1.2. If you do not have the Java Plug-in, a window should pop-up allowing you to download it (if you closed that window, hitting Reload will bring it up again).

Alternatively you can download the Java Plug-in from Sun's Web Site.

If you have any trouble installing the Java Plugin, or if you have questions or comments, e-mail me at tm@cs.brown.edu.

If you are at the Brown CS Department, plugin instructions are here.

Quick Start instructions.

Quick Start

This tutorial teaches the basic concepts needed for creating animations using RaceSketch. Detailed instructions are available here. To load Quick Start in a new window click here.

Place the boats.

1. To place boats click the boat button.
2. Click on the viewing area (large white field) in the location you want to place your first boat. Keep the mouse button pressed, and move the mouse untill the boat is pointing in the direction you want.
3. Place a second boat in the same way.

Record the animation.

1. To enter recording mode, press the record button located below the viewing area. Note that recording will only start when you click on a boat.
2. Click on one of the boats, and drag it along the path you want it to take, at the speed you want it to go.
3. Press the rewind button to return the the begining of the animation.
4. Click and drag the second boat. Notice that the motion of the first boat is played along as time advances.

Making a few changes.

1. To change the motion of a boat, begin by moving the time slider about midway through the animation.
2. Click on one of the boats, and move it along a new path. This overwrites the previously recorded section of the path.
3. Delete a boat, by clicking the right mouse-button on one of the boats.
4. Select Delete from the menu that comes up.

View the animation.

1. Press the rewind button (optional).
2. Press the play button.