The Surface Evolver

TLDR

The Surface Evolver is a computer program that minimizes the energy of a surface represented as a simplicial complex, allowing constraints on vertex positions or integrated quantities such as body volumes, with energy terms including surface tension, gravity, and others. The paper presents the mathematical model of the Surface Evolver and the interactive operations for modifying surfaces. The program performs energy minimization by evolving the surface along the energy gradient.

Abstract

The Surface Evolver is a computer program that minimizes the energy of a surface subject to constraints. The surface is represented as a simplicial complex. The energy can include surface tension, gravity and other forms. Constraints can be geometrical constraints on vertex positions or constraints on integrated quantities such as body volumes. The minimization is done by evolving the surface down the energy gradient. This paper describes the mathematical model used and the operations available to interactively modify the surface.