A geometric model describes the shape of a physical or mathematical object by means of geometric concepts. Geometric model(l)ing is the construction or use of geometric models. Geometric models are used in computer graphics, computer-aided design and manufacturing, and many applied fields such as medical image processing.
Geometric models can be built for objects of any dimension in any geometric space . Both 2D and 3D geometric models are extensively used in computer graphics. 2D models are important in computer typography and drafting. 3D models are central to computer-aided design and manufacturing, and many applied technical fields such as geology and medical image processing.
Geometric models are usually distinguished from procedural and object-oriented models , which define the shape implicitly by an algorithm. They are also contrasted with digital images and volumetric models ; and with implicit mathematical models such as the zero set of an arbitrary polynomial. However, the distinction is often blurred: for instance, geometric shapes can be represented by objects ; a digital image can be interpreted as a collection of colored squares; and geometric shapes such as circles are defined by implicit mathematical equations. Also, the modeling of fractal objects often requires a combination of geometric and procedural techniques.
See also