Non-Uniform Rational Basis Spline

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What Does Non-Uniform Rational Basis Spline Mean?

A non-uniform rational basis spline (NURBS) is a type of mathematical function used to create two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects. NURBS is used in computer graphics as a way to construct shapes and models mathematically.

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Techopedia Explains Non-Uniform Rational Basis Spline

In general, a spline is a numerical construct that is put together using polynomials. Polynomials are mathematical expressions of a variable equation that can be plotted on a graph. As a particular type of spline, a NURBS is considered “non-uniform” in that certain sections of the spline can be changed relative to other sections. It is also considered “rational” in that elements of the design can be weighted. NURBS helps designers to work with curves and contours in digital and mathematically constructed designs. For example, a NURBS equation could help to support digital or virtual coordinates for a 3-D model of a human or other character, or a complex object to be rendered in a computer graphics system.

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Margaret Rouse
Technology expert
Margaret Rouse
Technology expert

Margaret is an award-winning writer and educator known for her ability to explain complex technical topics to a non-technical business audience. Over the past twenty years, her IT definitions have been published by Que in an encyclopedia of technology terms and cited in articles in the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine, and Discovery Magazine. She joined Techopedia in 2011. Margaret’s idea of ​​a fun day is to help IT and business professionals to learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages.