The Characteristic Map for Fast and Efficient VFX Fluid Simulations

The Method of Characteristics is examined as a tool for making fluid simulation more efficient and effective in VFX production. A mathematical framework for a Characteristic Map is shown to be a generalization of the previous methods called Gridless Advection and Semi-Lagrangian Mapping. We demonstrate that the Characteristic Map can be used to modify a fluid flow post-simulation, including injecting higher resolution motion, and precise flow control from blending Characteristic Maps.