Isoparametric display mode

The isoparametric display (see Figure 3:121 below) shows each patch as a mesh of curves, each corresponding to a constant value of either the u or v parameters used in the B-Spline formulation. This display mode is selected using DISPLAY \ PATCH \ ISOPARAMETRIC or . The number of curves in each parametric direction is determined by the Precision setting on the Patch Display Options dialog.

Isoparametric curves give a direct indication of how regularly the surface parameters are distributed. A regular distribution is characterised by curves that are evenly spaced and reasonably parallel to the patch sides, and such patches are likely to be fairer. This display mode can make it easier to spot and work out the causes of serious irregularities such as folds or tucks within patches.

Figure 3:121. Surface displayed with isoparametric curves.