Free-Form Surfaces Modeling by Evolution Simulation

Abstract

We present in this paper a procedural method for modeling free-form, planar surfaces subdivisions, which allows simulating evolutions of such subdivisions. This method is founded on the common principles deduced from corpuscular phenomena modeling method (particle systems), and method for vegetal trees modeling by simulation of evolution. These principles are : - use of a discrete model, which is a set of basic elements, from which time discretization is deduced, -proper activity of basic elements; these methods consists in simulating the behaviour of these elements; - characterization of modelled object evolution, which is achieved by "functions" associated to basic elements; - priority of topology over geometry. A surface is defined as a set of surface elements, supported by a rooted, planar tree. A surface is initially reduced to a point. Surface evolution characterization and control are exclusively exerted through this tree. This method is applied to image synthesis and animation of natural shapes, especially vegetal shapes.