Energy-Based Models for Free-Form Surface Shape Design

Abstract

Abstract A parametric description of an elastic surface is used as the basis for a free-form shape design package. The energy functional of shape deformation are used to develop the equations of motion for the surface. The user, interacting with the model during a time simulation of its motion, is capable of guiding the surface into desirable configurations. The dynamic nature of these models cause them to seek shapes with desirable properties which can free the user from having to control every aspect of the surface while achieving design goals. The strong analogy between these models and physical systems allows the user to control the shape in intuitive fashions. This approach gives the user considerable control of the global aspects of the shape while retaining control of small scale local shape.