The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today that 11 scientific and technical investigations have been launched for the 2017 Oscars.

They include systems using multiple, stabilized, synced cameras to capture background footage, with integrated playback for simulating movement in static vehicles; submersible, telescoping camera cranes; automated systems for cinema auditorium quality control; systems for onset digital dailies with color managed workflows; and systems for onboard RAW recording for digital cinema cameras.

The SciTech Awards Committee will also investigate gyroscopically stabilized camera platforms for aerial cinematography; systems for modular character rigging enabling large scale, complex, high quality 3D digital character animation; systems for digital storyboarding and story reel development; efficient systems for interactive animation of large numbers of high-resolution 3D characters with full surface detail; single surface audio platforms for automated dialogue replacement; and software applications to synthesize complex sound scenes from a limited set of source elements.

Each year, these investigations are made public so individuals and companies with devices or claims of innovation within these areas will have the opportunity to submit achievements for review. The deadline to submit additional entries is Aug. 15, at 5 p.m. PT.

After investigations are conducted, the SciTech Awards Committee will meet in November to vote on recommendations to the Academy's Board of Governors, which will make the final awards decisions.

The Scientific and Technical Awards presentation will be held on Feb. 10.