Fast Position-based Multi-Agent Group Dynamics

Abstract

We present a novel method for simulating groups moving in formation. Recent approaches for simulating group motion operate via forces or velocity-connections. While such approaches are effective for several cases, they do not easily scale to large crowds, irregular formation shapes, and they provide limited fine-grain control over agent and group behaviors. In this paper we propose a novel approach that addresses these difficulties via positional constraints, with a position-based dynamics solver. Our approach allows real-time, interactive simulation of a variety of group numbers, formation shapes, and scenarios of up to thousands of agents.