Efficient algorithms for computing Reeb graphs

Abstract

The Reeb graph tracks topology changes in level sets of a scalar function and finds applications in scientific visualization and geometric modeling. We describe an algorithm that constructs the Reeb graph of a Morse function defined on a 3-manifold. Our algorithm maintains connected components of the two dimensional levels sets as a dynamic graph and constructs the Reeb graph in O(nlogn+nlogg( loglogg)3) time, where n is the number of triangles in the tetrahedral mesh representing the 3-manifold and g is the maximum genus over all level sets of the function. We extend this algorithm to construct Reeb graphs of d-manifolds in O(nlogn( loglogn)3) time, where n is the number of triangles in the simplicial complex that represents the d-manifold. Our result is a significant improvement over the previously known O( n2) algorithm. Finally, we present experimental results of our implementation and demonstrate that our algorithm for 3-manifolds performs efficiently in practice. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.