Abstract:

Objective This study addresses stagnant evolution in traditional Chinese cloud collar patterns and digital interaction limitations. It proposes a novel framework using visual programming to bridge historical art and digital expression. By analyzing examples form Ming and Qing dynasties, it deconstructs forms and principles, establishing a robust parametric system to capture digitally the traditional aesthetics. Integrated audio-driven interaction creates a dynamic generative environment for the living inheritance of this heritage, specifically enhancing youth engagement and fostering innovative participation with traditional culture.

Method Ming-Qing cloud collar patterns were collected. High-resolution scanning and image processing were used for precise feature extraction of skeletal structures and decor. A digital workflow in TouchDesigner (node-based visual programming) was built, and dynamic particle reconstruction was carried out, where 2-D patterns were transformed into responsive 3-D particle systems using Point Transform TOP to map deconstructed image RGB values to particle 3-D coordinates (X, Y, Z) in real-time. Audio features were extracted and mapped in real-time to control particle parameters. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model was applied to assess input efficacy for high-fidelity digital pattern representation.

Results The research results indicated that the innovative integration of cloud collar patterns with visual programming technology not only achieved the digital regeneration of traditional cloud collar patterns but also established a dynamic inheritance path featuring both technological breakthroughs and cultural depth. The dynamic particle reconstruction technology facilitated the creative transformation from 2-D to 3-D through the node workflow of TouchDesigner. Patterns, after being standardized by Fit TOP, optimized for blurriness by Blur TOP, and adjusted for parameters by Level TOP, were synthesized into RGBA four-channel maps via Reorder TOP. Subsequently, through the GPU parallel architecture of Point Transform TOP, the RGB channel values were mapped in real-time to 3-D particle coordinates (with the R value controlling the X-axis, the G value controlling the Y-axis, and the B value controlling the Z-axis). Combined with instantiated rendering by Geometry COMP and optical simulation by Phong Mat, a high-density particle scene with a sense of volume and material response was ultimately formed, accurately reproducing the geometric aesthetics of traditional structures such as the "cross-shaped" framework of the Sihe Ruyi style and the radial structure of the willow leaf style.The music interaction mapping system constructed a cross-modal real-time response mechanism. By extracting audio RMS energy, which was preprocessed through Gaussian filtering by Filter CHOP, the threshold interval was controlled by Limit CHOP to convert the energy data into displacement parameters of particles along the X/Y/Z axes. Combined with logical triggering by Logic CHOP and layer switching by Switch CHOP, dynamic effects such as breath-like fluctuations at low frequencies and radial light effects at high frequencies were achieved, enabling the particle movement to synchronize with musical rhythms at the millisecond level. The fuzzy comprehensive evaluation involving 10 industry professionals and 65 experiencers shows that although the static parameter scheme accurately restored the aesthetic of patterns with a high visual fidelity rate, its dynamic expressiveness was relatively weak. The dynamic video scheme, on the other hand, demonstrated significant advantages in interactive real-time performance and application adaptability, with a comprehensive score of 87.723 using the dual-weight method. This digital achievement can be widely applied in scenarios such as immersive exhibitions in digital museums, real-time dynamic decorations in fashion shows, and interactive experiences in AR/VR, injecting technological vitality into traditional patterns and promoting their evolution from static heritage to dynamic cultural symbols.

Conclusion This study introduces a novel digital construction methodology for Chinese cloud shoulder patterns, fundamentally leveraging the power and accessibility of visual programming. This approach effectively facilitates the modernization and revitalization of these significant traditional cultural elements. Relative to conventional graphic design or static 3-D modeling approaches, the proposed framework delivers an innovative technical solution for the living transmission of intangible cultural heritage. Its core strengths lie in its parametric flexibility and its inherent interactivity. The methodology exhibits substantial extensibility, readily adaptable to the parametric digitization and interactive regeneration of numerous other traditional decorative patterns beyond cloud shoulders. Consequently, this research possesses significant cultural dissemination value, offering new avenues for heritage appreciation, and considerable industrial application potential across creative industries, education, and digital heritage preservation, ensuring these ancient art forms resonate powerfully in the digital age.

Key words: visual programming, TouchDesigner, cloud collar ornamental pattern, dynamic particle reconstruction, music-interactive mapping