From Modeling to Fractals: Research on Prototyping of Augmented Fractal Tangram Blocks Set

To further the previous research about Tangram and to discover the possibilities of Tangram Blocks, a new versatile model developed from Tangram, this paper will explore and develop Tangram Blocks into an augmented puzzle game based on the methodology of fractals. Fractals could be considered as a reversed process of modeling, which is another playable process combining of science and art. This paper starts from using fractal thinking to analysis Tangram shapes. Then we can composite Tangram patterns using fractal formulas, such as the Pythagoras tree. If 2D Tangram shapes can fit in the concept of fractals well, we will use Tangram Blocks to try to build a fractal Tangram Blocks set. After finishing the prototyping of material objects, we can get a set of extended Tangram Blocks with enough pieces in different scales that can form some typical fractal patterns in three dimensions. To examining the possible and novel variations and extensions of Tangram Blocks in fractals, then we will model it in the virtual world. There are different methods to generative fractal transitions into animation, we will compare the visual effect of each fractal animation and choose the most suitable one to link to the play of Tangram Blocks. Music will also be generated by the fractal method and add on to the animations. How to combine the physical fractal Tangram Blocks set with the virtual fractal audiovisuals is also will be discussed in this paper. From the technical and aesthetic aspects of argument reality, the scan of 3D object, attached sensors on the blocks and the use of Apple Vision Pro glasses or other AR glasses will be experimenting and evaluating. Modeling and fractals may be the two sides of the real world’s operation; the augmented Tangram Blocks could open a window to witness this scene.