Computational Geometry in C (Cambridge Tracts in Theoretical Computer Science (Paperback))

This is the newly revised and expanded edition of the popular introduction to the design and implementation of geometry algorithms arising in areas such as computer graphics, robotics, and engineering design. The second edition contains material on several new topics, such as randomized algorithms for polygon triangulation, planar point location, 3D convex hull construction, intersection algorithms for ray-segment and ray-triangle, and point-in-polyhedron. A new "Sources" chapter points to supplemental literature for readers needing more information on any topic. A novel aspect is the inclusion of working C code for many of the algorithms, with discussion of practical implementation issues. The self-contained treatment presumes only an elementary knowledge of mathematics, but reaches topics on the frontier of current research, making it a useful reference for practitioners at all levels. The code in this new edition is significantly improved from the first edition, and four new routines are included. Java versions for this new edition are also available. All code is accessible from the book's Web site (http://cs.smith.edu/~orourke/) or by anonymous ftp.

This is the newly revised and expanded edition of the most suitable textbook for introducing undergraduate students in computer science and mathematics to the design of geometry algorithms. Such algorithms lie at the core of a variety of practical areas, including 3D game program design, geographical information systems, manufacturing design, and robotics. The self-contained treatment presumes only an elementary knowledge of mathematics, but reaches topics on the frontier of current research. Thus, though it is designed for a course at the advanced undergraduate level, it can be used for graduate courses as well. Numerous exercises are provided at the end of every section; a partial solutions manual is available.A novel aspect of the book is the inclusion of working computer programs for many of the algorithms. Students will enjoy the interplay between practical programming issues and the latest theoretical developments; many student projects can be built on the provided code.