
8
Differential geometry
Differential geometry is a classical mathematical area that has become very
important for engineering applications in the recent decades. This importance
is based on the rise of computer-aided visualization and geometry generation
technologies.
The fundamental problem of differential geometry, the finding of geodesic
curves, has practical implications in manufacturing. Development of non-
mathematical surfaces used in ships and airplanes has serious financial impact
in reducing material waste and improving the quality of the surfaces.
While the discussion in this chapter will focus on analytically solvable prob-
lems, the methods and ...