UT Dallas computer scientists have developed a technique to
make 3-D images that finds practical applications of a theory created by a
famous mathematician.
This technique uses anisotropic triangles – triangles with
sides that vary in length depending on their direction – to create 3-D “mesh”
computer graphics that more accurately approximate the shapes of the original
objects, and in a shorter amount of time than current techniques. These types
of images are used in movies, video games and computer modeling of various
phenomena, such as the flow of water or air across the Earth, the deformation
and wrinkles of clothes on the human body, or in mechanical and other types of
engineering designs. Researchers hope this technique will also lead to greater
accuracy in models of human organs to more effectively treat human diseases,
such as cancer.