Subdivision models for varying-resolution and generalized perturbations

Abstract

Subdivision schemes are multi-resolution methods used in computer-aided geometric design to generate smooth curves or surfaces. In this paper, we are interested in both smooth and non-smooth subdivision schemes. We propose two models that generalize the subdivision operation and can yield both smooth and non-smooth schemes in a controllable way: (1) The ‘varying-resolution’ model allows a structured access to the various resolutions of the refined data, yielding certain patterns. This model generalizes the standard subdivision iterative operation and has interesting interpretations in the geometrical space and also in creativity-oriented domains, such as music. As an infrastructure for this model, we propose representing a subdivision scheme by two dual rules trees. The dual tree is a permuted rules tree that gives a new operator-oriented view on the subdivision process, from which we derive an ‘adjoint scheme’. (2) The ‘generalized perturbed schemes’ model can be viewed as a special multi-resolution representation that allows a more flexible control on adding the details. For this model, we define the terms ‘template mask’ and ‘tension vector parameter’. The non-smooth schemes are created by the permutations of the ‘varying-resolution’ model or by certain choices of the ‘generalized perturbed schemes’ model. We then present procedures that integrate and demonstrate these models and some enhancements that bear a special meaning in creative contexts, such as music, imaging and texture. We describe two new applications for our models: (a) data and music analysis and synthesis, which also manifests the usefulness of the non-smooth schemes and the approximations proposed, and (b) the acceleration of convergence and smoothness analysis, using the ‘dual rules tree’.