*This article was created using voice input with AI (Aqua Voice) for text conversion. Please note there may be some inconsistencies.
Hello. I’m Hiro from Full Body Tracking Lab.
Today I want to share my thoughts on 3D motion capture equipment for VTubers.
My conclusion upfront: please stop taking equipment away from independent creators who have been building their own setups through DIY.
Motion Capture Equipment Is a Lifeline for Creators
Whether a creator can master motion capture equipment is a matter of survival for 3D VTubers.
Especially for streamers whose main content is dance performance, having access to equipment directly determines whether they can continue their activities.
Taking that opportunity away from people who have built their own environments through DIY feels pretty harsh to me.
VRChatters Are Basically VTubers
People who use VRChat are essentially VTubers. They use 3D avatars, move their entire bodies with full-body tracking, and communicate in real-time. The technology they use is no different from VTubers.
In that context, having 3D full tracking equipment taken away is quite devastating for a creator.
Utilization Rates Are Concerning
3D motion capture equipment is very expensive. That’s a fact.
But what concerns me more than the price is the utilization rate. It’s wasteful to hoard dedicated equipment that never gets used. Expensive gear sitting in a warehouse collecting dust is unfortunate for everyone.
On the other hand, making it openly available to many people could become a barrier for established creators. When something that was “your unique weapon” becomes everyone’s weapon, differentiation becomes impossible.
That said, my honest feeling is that utilization rates probably aren’t that high.
My Frustration as a Researcher
As someone who researches full-body tracking, I find it hard to understand approaches that close off the potential of this technology.
I want to support independent creators who are building their own setups. But honestly, I’m struggling to speak up about it.
Technology has value only when it’s being used. I believe we need systems that allow more creators to access it, rather than keeping expensive equipment exclusive to a select few.
Summary
3D motion capture equipment is a lifeline for DIY creators. There are utilization rate issues, but that doesn’t justify taking opportunities away from individuals.
Technology has value only when it’s being used. As a full-body tracking researcher, I want to think about ways to make motion capture more accessible to more people.
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