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.
From the reviews of the first edition:
"The book gives an introduction to curve and surface representation and modelling techniques that are used in the related fields of geometric modelling, computer aided geometric design (CAGD), and computer graphics. It mainly introduces newcomers to these domains as well as those interested in the mathematical background of graphics applications. It is written in a mathematically very accessible style ... . Historical remarks, citations from the literature adapted to the context as well as numerous examples contribute to a pleasant and readable style." (Gudrun Albrecht, Mathematical Reviews, 2006 i)
"This book is concerned with the computation of surfaces. ... The book also deals with curves ... . after reading and understanding a topic, the reader should be able to design and implement the concepts discussed. ... The notions are clearly introduced and are ... illustrated by figures and examples. ... The book has many examples, which are important for a better understanding of the presented concepts ... . Many exercises are sprinkled throughout the text. " (Marian Ioan Munteanu, Zentralblatt MATH, Vol. 1083, 2006)