Computing symmetries of implicit algebraic surfaces (Q6170357)

In line with recent results on symmetry detection in parametric rational curves and surfaces and in planar algebraic curves, this article presents algorithms to detect rotational and reflectional symmetry of algebraic surfaces. The reflection can be either in a plane, in a line, or in a point. Simple (planes, quadrics) or known (cylinders, surfaces of revolution) cases are not considered whence the surface's symmetry group is finite. Symmetry is detected from the defining polynomial equation \(f(x) = 0\). Of particular importance in this context are the form \(f_n\) of highest degree of \(f\) and its gradient vector field. The symmetry detection procedures make use of particular properties implied by the respective symmetry transformation. They are formulated in terms of conditions on the algebraic surface that often lead to systems of polynomial equations. Whether or not they are feasible in practice depends on the individual surface under consideration. Typically, a certain sign distinction is required. Sometimes, symmetry detection for planar curves can be employed successfully. It has to be emphasized that the algorithms presented in this article are of symbolic nature and assume exactly given algebraic surfaces. They are not suitable to handle noisy data or approximate surfaces.