Parametric NURBS curve interpolators: A review

Free-form shapes which were once considered as an aesthetic feature are now an important functional requirement. CNC industries are looking for a compact solution for reproducing free-form shapes as conventional interpolation models are inadequate. The parametric curve interpolator developed in the last decade has clearly emerged as favorite among its contemporaries in recent years. At present intense research has been done on parametric curve interpolators and interesting developments are reported. Out of the various parametric representations for curves and surfaces. NURBS has been standardized and widely used in free-form shape design. This paper presents a review of various methods of parametric interpolation for NURBS and discusses the salient features, problems and solutions. Recent approaches on variable feedrate interpolation, parameter compensation are also reviewed and research trends are addressed finally.