This paper describes the theory and implications of a discrete mechanics model for deformable bodies, incorporating behavior such as motion, collision, deformation, etc. The model is fundamentally based on inter-atomic interaction, and recursively reduces resolution by approximating collections of many high-resolution elements with fewer lower-resolution elements. The model can be viewed as an extended mass-spring model. We begin by examining the domain of conceptual design, and find there is a need for physics based simulation, both for interactive shape modeling and analysis. We then proceed with describing a theoretical base for our model, as well as pragmatic additions. Applications in both interactive physics based shape modeling and analysis are presented. The model is aimed at conceptual mechanical design, rapid prototyping, or similar areas where adherence to physical principles, generality and simplicity are more important than metric correctness.
['Johan Jansson', 'Joris S. M. Vergeest']
A DISCRETE MECHANICS MODEL FOR DEFORMABLE BODIES