• Variety, Wednesday, August 13, 2008 9:15 AM

Disney and Pixar are intensifying their quest for innovative technologies. Disney is partnering with Carnegie Mellon University and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology to conduct R&D for several Disney projects and companies.

Aside from improving ways for fans to interact with robotic and virtual Disney characters, research will include "sports visualization for ESPN, simulations for Disney Interactive Games and artificial intelligence for park attractions and games," say executives. The work will also support Pixar animation.

"The scope of technology today means no single company or single university can do everything," says Disney vice president Joe Marks.

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