B-splines
B-splines, or Basis splines, are a type of piecewise polynomial function used in computer graphics, data fitting, and numerical analysis. They provide a flexible way to represent curves and surfaces by combining multiple polynomial segments, allowing for smooth transitions between them. The "B" in B-splines stands for "basis," indicating that these functions serve as a foundation for constructing more complex shapes.
One of the key features of B-splines is their ability to maintain local control over the shape of the curve. This means that adjusting a single control point affects only a portion of the curve, making it easier to manipulate. B-splines are widely used in applications such as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and animation due to their efficiency and versatility.