Useful curves for design.
| Polynomials | In R2 and in R3, polynomials are useful curves. |
| Spline Curves | Splines are useful for approximating smooth shapes. |
| Rational Curves | Curves defined as ratios of polynomials. |
Polynomials
Polynomials are curves of the form
The parabola is an excellent example.
Spline Curves
Spline curves are often used in design because they make it easy to approximate any smooth shape with a polynomial curve (or a blend of several polynomial curves). A spline curve is based on a collection of control points that determine the shape of the curve, and allow its shape to be adjusted easily.
Rational Curves
A curve is said to be rational if it is a ratio of two polynomials. The serpentine curve is a rational curve.