Woodwork: Making Toys from Geometric Models

We describe an algorithm for automatic generation of idealized bead figures from recognizable 3D models (animals, humans, etc.). The bead figures approximate the model by a set of cylindrical shapes threaded onto a skeleton of the model. As such, they provide volumetric shape information in addition to the skeleton. The bead figures can be used by applications requiring a simple and compact description of the shapes. They also provide a visually appealing, toy-like description which can be used in artistic applications. The input models are given as 3D triangulated meshes. A bead figure is generated using the skeleton of the model, often referred to as the “stick figure”. The skeleton reflects the structure of the original mesh and its features, using a small number of edges. Once the skeleton is computed, beads are threaded onto it to create the final model. Computation of a compact and concise skeleton which captures the features of the model is crucial for realistic bead figure generation.