“Conversion of complex contour line definitions into polygonal element mosaics” by Sederberg and Christiansen

  • ©Thomas (Tom) W. Sederberg and Hank Christiansen

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Title:

    Conversion of complex contour line definitions into polygonal element mosaics

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Abstract:


    A simple algorithm is presented for processing complex contour arrangements to produce polygonal element mosaics which are suitable for line drawing and continuous tone display. The program proceeds by mapping adjacent contours onto the same unit square and, subject to ordering limitations, connecting nodes of one contour to their nearest neighbors in the other contour. While the mapping procedure provides a basis for branching decisions, highly ambiguous situations are resolved by user interaction. The program was designed to interface a contour definition of the components of a human brain. These brain data are a most complex definition and, as such, serve to illustrate both the capabilities and limitations of the procedures.

References:


    1. Keppel, E. Approximating complex surfaces by triangulation of contour lines. IBM Journal of Research and Development, v. 19 (Jan. 1975), 2-11.
    2. Fuchs, H., Kedem, Z.M., and Uselton, S.P. Optimal surface reconstruction from planar contours. Comm. ACM 20, 10 (Oct. 1977), 693-702.
    3. Christiansen, H.N. Applications of continuous tone computer-generated images in structural mechanics. Structural Mechanics Computer Programs – Surveys, Assessments, and Availability. University Press of Virginia, Charlottesville 1974, 1003-1015.
    4. Christiansen, H.N., and Stephenson, M.B. Movie. byu – a general purpose computer graphics display system. Proceedings of the Symposium on Applications of Computer Methods in Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, v. 2 (Aug. 1977), 759-769.


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