Modeling Rough Surfaces

Kim, Y., Machiraju, R., & Thompson, D. (2004). Modeling Rough Surfaces. In G. Brunnett, B. Hamann, B. Muller, and L. Linsen (Eds.), Geometric Modeling for Scientific Visualization. Berlin: Springer Verlag. 123-138.

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a method for generating rough surfaces using discrete surface growth models. Our goal is to develop easily controllable methods for generating rough surfaces for computer graphics applications. We employ a two-pass method. A point set is generated using a discrete model based on surface growth and evolution. Then, the resulting surface is extracted by a level set method. This two-pass process provides more flexibility to users by separating the surface extraction step from the data generation step. The simple rule-based discrete simulations we employ here have several advantages. First, the results are convincing since they are derived from physical processes. Second, implementation is easy and the computations using the methods are not expensive. Lastly, users can exercise control by simply changing the discrete update rules. After generating an initial data set from the application of a discrete model, a level set method is used to obtain an implicit surface representation. This approach allows us to easily handle complex topologies and compute intrinsic geometric properties of the surface. In addition, it is easy to deform the shape for animation and to combine several objects to generate an elaborate model.