Axial representation for modelling 3D shapes

This paper presents a technique for representing animal models in terms of a set of axial curves. An object or an animal model is defined as the union of a set of different parts. Each part of the object is represented in an axial space defined by an axial curve-pair-a primary curve and an orientation curve. A hierarchy of axial curve-pairs defines the relative positions and orientations of different parts of the object. The shape of the object can be modified by adjusting the axial curve-pairs. Adjusting the axial curve-pairs according to some motion constraints produces different postures of an animal model. This technique is particularly suitable for modelling animals such as fishes and snakes