Object shape exploration using topology matching

摘要

A shape analyzer is provided. The analyzer inputs a 3D representation of an object such as merchandise. The structural graph of the object is constructed by defining a continuous function on the surface of the object. The surface is then partitioned into plural areas according to the function values at the points on the surface. The areas are associated with nodes of the graph. By choosing a function that returns values invariant to rotation of the objects, the constructed graph also becomes invariant to rotation. This feature is important when searching for objects by shape from a shape database, as the postures of the objects are unknown when searched for. The analyzer is applicable to search engines for online shopping, where a user seeks goods by designating the general shape of the target.