Adaptive Shape Evolution Using Blending

We propose a shape representation scheme which allows two shapes to be combined into a single model. The desired regions of the two shapes are selected, and then merged together forming a blended shape. For reconstruction, blending is incorporated into a deformable model framework. The model automatically adapts to the data, blending when necessary. Hierarchical blending allows multiple blends of a shape to occur, forming an evolution from the initial shape of a sphere to the final shape. Blending also allows the insertion of a hole between arbitrary locations. The models used are globally defined, making the recovered shape a natural symbolic description. We present reconstruction experiments involving shapes of various topologies.