Recursive Fragmentation & Coupled Physics Framework

The Technical Challenge: The objective was to develop a truly dynamic, impact-reactive system that moves away from static, pre-fractured geometry. I aimed to create a framework where fragmentation is determined recursively by physical forces in real-time.

Technical Implementation:

• Recursive Sub-Solver Architecture: Engineered a nested solver logic within Houdini’s DOP environment. This allows the system to evaluate kinetic energy at every timestep, triggering recursive slicing only when specific impact thresholds are met.

• Coupled Particle & Pyro Dynamics: Based on a technical approach shared by Andrew Prousalis (Head of 3D at MVSM), I implemented an advection-based workflow. The Pyro simulation’s velocity fields directly drive spark trajectories, creating a unified physical system where fire and particles interact seamlessly.

• VEX-Driven Logic: Developed a deterministic lifecycle for fragments using custom VEX triggers (inspired by techniques from Grayden / Diffuse FX). This ensures art-directable results where destruction density is proportional to the system’s kinetic energy.