The Taub Faculty of Computer Science Events and Talks

I will describe two researches on shape modeling. In the first research we present a new framework for real-time shape deformation with local shape preservation and volume control. Given a 3D object, in any form, one would like to manipulate the object using convenient handles, so that the resulting shape is a natural variation of the given object. It is also important that the deformation is controlled, thereby enabling localized changes that do not influence nearby branches. For example, given a horse model, a movement of one of its hooves should not affect the other hooves. Another goal is the minimization of local shape distortion throughout the object. The first ingredient of our method is the use of Interior Radial Basis Functions (IRBF), where the functions are radial with respect to interior distances within the object. The second important ingredient is the reduction of local distortions by minimizing the distortion of a set of spheres placed within the object. Our method achieves the goals of convenient shape manipulation and local influence property, and improves the latest state-of-the-art cage-based methods by replacing the cage with the more flexible IRBF centers. The later enables extra flexibility and fully automated construction, as well as simpler formulation. In the second research we present ArtiSketch - a system which allows the conversion of a wealth of existing 2D content into 3D content by users who do not necessarily possess artistic skills. Using ArtiSketch, a novice user may describe a 3D model as a set of articulated 2D sketches of a shape from different viewpoints. ArtiSketch then automatically converts the sketches to an articulated 3D object. Using common interactive tools, the user provides an initial estimate of the 3D skeleton pose for each frame, which ArtiSketch refines to be consistent between frames. This skeleton may then be manipulated independently to generate novel poses of the 3D model.

Joint work with David Levin (Math, TAU, first research) and Craig Gotsman (CS, Technion, second research).

This talk summarizes the Ph.D research of the speaker under the supervision of Prof. Gotsman Craig.