What Is a 'Spline' and Why Is It Important? GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Software & Apps > Design
The Many Definitions of the Word 'Spline'
By Justin Slick Justin Slick Writer Dartmouth College Former Lifewire writer Justin Slick has been creating 3D computer graphics for more than 10 years, specializing in character and environment creation. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on June 24, 2019 Tweet Share Email Jorg Greuel/Getty Images Tweet Share Email Design 3D Design Animation & Video Graphic Design There are several definitions of the word spline. We'll cover a few and show the progression of the word from a mechanical tool to a complex mathematical concept often used in 3D modeling. Mechanics
Splines are a mating feature for rotating elements, such as ridges or teeth on a drive shaft that mesh with grooves in a mating piece and transfer torque to it. A Flexible Curve
A spline, or the more modern term flexible curve, consists of a long strip fixed in position at a number of points that relaxes to form. For instance, before computers, designers and draftsmen used manual tools to assist their drawings by hand. To draw specific curves, they used long, thin, flexible strings of wood, plastic, or metal called splines. Window Screens
For screens installed on aluminum frames, the material is cut slightly larger than the frame, then laid over it, and a flexible vinyl cord called a spline is pressed over the screen into a groove (spline channel) in the frame. Mathematics
In mathematics, the term spline is adopted from the name of a flexible strip of metal commonly used by drafters to assist in drawing curved lines. Here, a spline is a numeric function that is piecewise-defined by polynomial functions, and which possesses a high degree of smoothness at the places where the polynomial pieces connect (which are known as nodes). In English, a flexible curve. Geometry
Splines are used frequently in NURBS modeling. NURBS, Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines, are mathematical representations of 3‑D geometry that can accurately describe any shape from a simple 2‑D line, circle, arc, or curve to the most complex 3‑D organic free-form surface or solid. Because of their flexibility and accuracy, NURBS models can be used in any process from illustration and animation to manufacturing. A NURBS curve is defined by four things: degree, control points, knots, and an evaluation rule. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire What Is STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math)? How to Remove Motorola Droid 2 Back Cover Mesh vs. NURBS: Which 3D Model Is Best for 3D Printing? HPGL File (What It Is & How to Open One) What Is a File Extension & Why Are They Important? How to Insert a Table in Microsoft Word 2013 Revolving Curves In Maya Find Niche Content With These Search Engines DNS Servers: What Are They and Why Are They Used? EPRT File (What It Is and How to Open One) What Is a Jumper? ACV File (What It Is & How to Open One) How to Insert and Paint 3D Models in Paint 3D What Is a Robot? How to Use Your Mac's Display Calibrator Assistant What Is a Version Number and Why Is It Used? Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies