The parameter \(R^ 2\) in multiquadric interpolation (Q2277748)

For bivariate interpolation to the data \((x_ i,y_ i,z_ i)\) where the \((x_ i,y_ i)\) are arbitrary points the multiquadric method has been frequently applied [for references, see: \textit{R. L. Hardy}, Comput. Math. Appl. 19, 163-208 (1990; Zbl 0692.65003)]. The accuracy of the method depends on a user defined parameter \(R^ 2\). In the present paper some observations and useful recommendations about \(R^ 2\) are given and an algorithm, heavily dependent on the \(z_ i\), is proposed for the computation of its optimal value.