An immersive modeling system for 3D free-form design using implicit surfaces

ABSTRACT

We present a new free-form interactive modeling technique based on the metaphor of clay work. This paper discusses design issues and an immersive modeling system which enables a user to design intuitively and interactively 3D solid objects with curved surfaces by using one's finger. Shape deformation is expressed by simple formulas without complex calculation because of skeletal implicit surfaces employed to represent smooth free-form surfaces. A polygonization algorithm that generates polygonal representation from implicit surfaces is developed to reduce the time required for rendering curved surfaces, since conventional graphics hardware is optimized for displaying polygons. The prototype system has shown that a user can design 3D solid objects composed of curved surfaces in a short time by deforming objects intuitively using one's finger in real time.

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INDEX TERMS

Keywords:
CAD, Head Mounted Displays, Implicit Surfaces, Solid Modeling, Virtual Reality