A conceptual model for particle systems animation

Abstract

Particle systems represent a technique for creating a special class of computer generated images. This class of imagery would be difficult or impossible to create using traditional surface based representations found in current computer animation systems. Particle systems applications vary widely, but have a common underlying approach. This thesis develops a conceptual model for handling the variety of uses of particle systems in a homogeneous fashion. The model encompasses both the view of an applications programmer seeking to implement established uses of particle systems and the view of an animator who wishes to employ such an implementation for animation purposes. It has several advantages for animators, including rapid feedback and flexibility. Images and animation sequences from an implementation of the model in C++ are shown as examples.