Selected applications of splines of arbitrary manifold topology

Overview

Abstract

There are many intriguing aspects and applications of splines, in particular in the setting of arbitrary manifold topology. In this talk we will take a look at a recently published spline-based subdivision scheme for three-valent meshes (i.e. meshes composed of mostly hexagons), providing us with a good understanding of subdivision surfaces in general. We then move on to study improved quadrature rules for the well-known Catmull-Clark subdivision scheme for quad-dominant meshes, something long-awaited by spline-based numerical methods such as isogeometric analysis. Finally, we shift our focus to a more artistic application of splines in the context of vector graphics. Here, we consider user-friendly extensions of the gradient mesh primitive, facilitating the creation of resolution-independent photo-realistic illustrations.

Brief Biography

After obtaining BSc and MSc degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the Eindhoven University of Technology, the Netherlands, Pieter joined the Computer Laboratory at the University of Cambridge to focus on subdivision surfaces. He eventually moved back to the Netherlands, where he is currently wrapping up his Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Groningen, focusing on various applications of splines.