Three-Dimensional Plots

Abstract

Plotting in three-dimensional space bears a number of similarities to the corresponding process in two dimensions, but these similarities are rather superficial. At times it can be difficult to achieve a convincing representation of a three-dimensional object on a two-dimensional screen. The human perception of space and color is more complicated than most of us realize, and it imposes strict demands on what is acceptable. In the case of three-dimensional graphics, the optional arguments used within main plotting commands have a more significant impact on the final result than they have in the two-dimensional case. For instance, an incorrect use of perspective can produce distortions to the shape we want to graph. Wrong use of color and lighting can hide or exaggerate certain features of plotted objects. Consequently, these topics require as much attention as the syntax of Maple commands. We already know from the previous chapter, albeit only theoretically, how to control the perspective projection and how to specify the position of directional lighting. Here we will put this knowledge to use. Furthermore, two sections of this chapter will be devoted specifically to color and lighting. We will also examine data structures generated by plotting commands and various ways of modifying such structures.