Abstract: “A level set model is a deformable implicit model that has a regularly-sampled representation. It is defined as an iso-contour, i.e. a level set, of some implicit function f. The contour is deformed by solving a partial differential equation on a sampling of f, an image in 2D and a volume dataset in 3D. Level set methods provide the techniques needed to change pixel/voxel values in a way that evolves the embedded iso-contour to meet a user-defined goal. Deforming models within a level set framework provides several advantages. By construction, self-intersection cannot occur, which guarantees the generation of physically realizable (i.e. manufacturable), simple, closed objects. Additionally, level set models easily change topological genus, and are free of the edge-face connectivity issues associated with mesh models. In this talk I will introduce level set models and describe four computer graphics applications that utilize them. The applications are 3D morphing, contour-based surface reconstruction, volume segmentation and geometric modeling.”