This textbook on visual computing methods and data analysis differs from similar reference volumes by integrating graphic and visualization topics such as subdivision surfaces, scene graphs, shadow generation, ambient occlusion and high dynamic range images. Theoharis (U. of Athens, Greece), Papaioannou (Athens U., Greece), Patrikalakis (MIT) and Platis (U of Peloponnese, Greece) cover the acquisition, analysis and synthesis of visual data, concluding each chapter with exercises that can be used as class assignments for engineering students. Multi-resolution models and skeletal animation are also discussed. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)