B-spline Programming Concepts

Abstract

In the previous twelve chapters we introduced different aspects of modeling with NURBS. These chapters covered basically two things: (1) the underlying mathematics, and (2) algorithms illustrating how the tools can be turned into computer code. Although the pseudocodes presented in each chapter are fairly detailed, containing all the necessary information to turn them into workable routines, it is a long way from the algorithmic sketch to a useful system. How to design a useful system is a very difficult question (contrary to many researchers who consider it as a minor “implementation issue”). A NURBS system has to satisfy many requirements in order to be useful in a complex surface or solid modeler. In this chapter we introduce a number of programming concepts that, we believe, contribute to good programming practices. We are fully aware of the diversity of programming styles and conventions. Consequently, we do not attempt to present the best or the ultimate solution simply because there is none.