This paper is focused on the question of simulation and visualiza- tion of 3D
gel and paste dynamic effects. In a first part, we introduce a 3D physically
based particle (or mass-interaction) model, with a small number of masses and
few powerful interaction parameters, which is able to generate the dynamic
features of both gels and pastes. This model proves that the 3D
mass-interaction method is relevant for the simulation of such phenomena,
without an explicit knowledge of their underly- ing physics.

With an historical point of view combined with a bibliographic overview, the
article discusses the idea that haptic force feedback transducers correspond
with a paradigm shift in our real-time tools for creating music. So doing, il
shows that computer music may be regarded as a major field of research and
application for haptics.