A rule-based computer support for the design of tessellation tiles

Abstract

The tessellation is of repeated graphic patterns that can be applied in many visual applications. To create a graphic design of tessellation is not a simple task, which requires both visual art experience and geometric modeling. In this paper, we provide a rule-based support system to assist users, who has less experience in art, to efficiently create tessellation tiles to satisfy the user’s aesthetic perception. To this end, we propose three algorithms based on rules to solve the pattern validation problems in tessellation design, including: (1) tile boundary formulation by using the C4C4C4C4 Heesch-type isohedral tiling and Bézier curve, (2) fitting the internal design of tile into the tile boundary based on the extremal polygon containment optimization, (3) combination of tiles that satisfies symmetry or semi-symmetry. Consequently, the computer support provides automation and visualization to make users’ tessellation design more efficient and innovative.