Discrete modeling for natural objects

This paper presents a discrete technique specially designed for modeling the geometry and the properties of natural objects as those encountered in biology and geology. Contrary to classical Computer-Aided Design methods based on continuous (polynomial) functions, the proposed approach is based on a discretization of the objects close to the finite-element techniques used for solving differential equations. Each object is modeled as a set of interconnected nodes holding the geometry and the physical properties of the objects and the Discrete Smooth Interpolation method is used for fitting the geometry and the properties to complex data. Data are turned into lineal constraints and some constraints related to typical information encountered in geology are presented.