Visual simulation of fire-flakes synchronized with flame

Abstract

We propose a framework for generating, animating, and controlling fire-flakes to correspond with the movements of flame. Not only do fire-flakes themselves display a distinctively complex and elaborate movement, but also they are heavily influenced by where the heat transforms into flame and how the flame moves. It is difficult for designers to generate and simulate synchronous movement of fire-flakes and flame because the movement of flame tends to be chaotic and constantly changing. We provide a novel framework that can improve on the current processes both effectively and efficiently. We first propose a fire-flake motion model that simulates movement harmoniously with the movement of flame. We then introduce automatic generation of fire-flakes by analyzing temperature fields and the velocity fields input from the fire simulation. Lastly, our sample-based control method enables the formation of a target shape by gathering fire-flakes together into one location while maintaining their inherent movement without external forces. We also provide various parameters that the designer can use to control the effects of the forces determining the amount, velocity, and movement of fire-flakes. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first visual simulation method to generate fire-flakes in coordination with flame, and we believe it will contribute not only to research, but also to the animation industry.