ABSTRACT
We consider the problem of computing piecewise linear approximations of real algebraic surfaces. Modem graphics hardware accepts such polygonal approximations and accurately render the complicated surfaces using sophis ticated lighting and shading models. Similar, structured linear approxima tions of surfaces axe required for finite element approaches to solve systems of partial differential equations. The problem of constructing a polygonal ap proximation, especially for finite element meshes, is complicated by the need for a correct topology of the mesh even in the presence of singularities and multiple sheets of the real algebraic surface.
