The point-set method: Front-tracking without connectivity

We describe a point-set method for extracting the normal, curvature, and su rface area from unordered data points residing on a surface. This capabilit y relaxes front-tracking's reliance on connectivity between interfacial poi nts and allows front-tracking to model topological changes at an interface naturally. We use this capability in 2D and 3D front-tracking calculations to model coalescence. We also describe a simple projection scheme which all ows us to suppress parasitic currents in front-tracking models. (C) 2000 Ac ademic Press.