Positivity-preserving rational bi-cubic spline interpolation for 3D positive data

This paper deals with the shape preserving interpolation problem for visualization of 3D positive data. A required display of 3D data looks smooth and pleasant. A rational bi- cubic function involving six shape parameters is presented for this objective which is an extension of piecewise rational function in the form of cubic/quadratic involving three shape parameters. Simple data dependent constraints for shape parameters are derived to conserve the inherited shape feature (positivity) of 3D data. Remaining shape parameters are left free for designer to modify the shape of positive surface as per industrial needs. The interpolant is not only local, C-1 but also it is a computationally economical in comparison with existing schemes. Several numerical examples are supplied to support the worth of proposed interpolant. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.