Using blocks to construct 3D shapes and create transformation animations

The objective of this research is to develop methods by which we can use blocks to approximate the shapes of 3D objects and to generate shape transformation animations. Two graphic tools are developed. One assists the animator in constructing 3D shapes with bricks of different sizes and matching up the different shapes. The other tool helps the animator generate a transformation animation of those bricks. Using polygon shape data, these tools can procedurally place the bricks and control their animation. Several different methods for animation are introduced. Those methods provide different ways to generate animation paths of the blocks. The no path animation and the straight path animation are easy for the animator to create and the animation time is easily controlled. The flocking animation will provide more interesting effect.