Deformable Object Modeling Using the Time-Dependent Finite Element Method

Abstract

Continuum mechanics and the finite element method are used as basic tools to facilitate the animation of deformable objects. Two unique features in this paper are: (1) introduction of a framework for 3-D finite interface elements to deal with object interaction and (2) a simple approach to handle fracture propagation inside objects. Animation sequences have been constructed, and they indicate that the system is able to provide a realistic depiction of dynamic collision processes between deformable objects and a simple presentation of fracture propagation inside objects.