Scalar and Parametric Spline Curves and Surfaces

A common engineering task consists of interpolating a set of discrete points that arise from measurements and experiments. Another traditional requirement implies creating a curve that mimics a given array of points, namely, a polyline. Any of these problems require building an analytical representation of the given discrete set of points. If the geometrical shape represented by the input polyline is complicated, then we may expect that a global interpolant or polynomial will be of a high degree, to honor all imposed constraints, which makes its use prohibited. Indeed, a global interpolant often experiences inflection points and sudden changes in curvature. To avoid these drawbacks, we often seek solving the interpolation/approximation problem using piecewise polynomial func- tions called “ splines. ” rational B-spline curves and surfaces ( NURBS ).