Deformed Distance Fields for Simulation of Non-Penetrating Flexible Bodies

We present a novel penetration depth estimation algorithm based on the use of deformed distance fields for simulation of non-penetrating flexible bodies. We assume that the continuum of non-rigid models are discretized using standard techniques, such as finite element methods. As the objects deform, the distance fields are deformed accordingly to estimate penetration depth, allowing enforcement of non-penetration constraints between two colliding elastic bodies. Our approach can automatically handle self-penetration and inter-penetration in a uniform manner. We demonstrate its effectiveness on moderately complex animated scenes.