FUNCTION REPRESENTATION AND HYPERFUN: PROPOSED TOOLS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM OF DIGITAL PERSISTENCE

Carl W. Vilbrandt (University of Aizu), James M. Goodwin (UCLA), Janet R.
Goodwin (Aizu History Project), Alexander Pasko (Hosei University), Galina
Pasko (Kanazawa Institute), Musdi Bin Haji Shanat (University of Aizu)

The use of proprietary software to model archaeological objects and sites is an inherently dangerous practice, since such software and its platforms may rapidly become obsolete. To address this problem, we will present Function Representation (FRep), a robust open-source modeling tool based on mathematical functions. In addition, we will introduce HyperFun, a minimalist programming language designed to implement FRep.

Because FRep is able to generate irregular shapes that cannot be accurately represented by polygons, it is particularly useful in modeling complex objects such as figurines and statues. Using an example of a figurine from a fourth or fifth century Japanese archaeological site, we will discuss the construction of three-dimensional images. In addition, we will use the HyperFun language to show how an existing FRep model can be altered. Finally, we will introduce several projects in progress, including the development of an FRep-based CAD system and the modeling of Japanese lacquerware objects.