Accuracy and computational complexity analysis of design models created by virtual sculpting

We have developed an experimental virtual sculpting system with haptic interface, which allows the user to create a freeform model interactively. The virtual sculpting method is based on the metaphor of carving a solid block into a 3D freeform object. The PHANToM™ manipulator is used to provide the position and orientation data of the sculpting tool and to generate haptic sensation to the user's hand during the sculpting process. The goal is to provide a high-fidelity simulation system with real-time performance and adequate accuracy of the generated model. In order to understand the limitations on the geometric details that can be generated, we perform an accuracy analysis in different aspects. The computational complexity due to various parameters of the virtual sculpting system is also analyzed. Numerical data are presented to verify the analytical results.