Computer graphics is important in many areas including engineering design, architecture, education, and computer art and animation. This book examines a wide array of current methods used in creating real-looking objects in the computer, one of the main aims of computer graphics.Key features: Good foundational mathematical introduction to curves and surfaces; no advanced math required Topics organized by different interpolation/approximation techniques, each technique providing useful information about curves and surfaces Exposition motivated by numerous examples and exercises sprinkled throughout, aiding the reader Includes a gallery of color images, Mathematica code listings, and sections on curves and surfaces by refinement and on sweep surfaces Web site maintained and updated by the author, providing readers with errata and auxiliary materialThis engaging text is geared to a broad and general readership of computer science/architecture engineers using computer graphics to design objects, programmers for computer gamemakers, applied mathematicians, and students majoring in computer graphics and its applications. It may be used in a classroom setting or as a general reference.

This book surveys current methods used to create real-looking objects in the computer. The text provides a solid foundational math introduction to curves and surfaces; the reader needs no advanced math. Topics are organized by different interpolation/approximation techniques. The book includes a gallery of color images, Mathematica code listings, and sections on curves and surfaces by refinement and on sweep surfaces. A Web site maintained and updated by the author provides readers with errata and auxiliary material This engaging text is geared to a broad and general readership of computer science/architecture engineers using computer graphics to design objects, programmers for computer game makers, and applied mathematicians.

Basic Theory.- Linear Interpolation.- Polynomial Interpolation.- Hermite Interpolation.- Spline Interpolation.- Bézier Approximation.- B-Spline Approximation.- Subdivision Methods.- Sweep Surfaces.