This book introduces the theory and applications of Ricci flow for shape analysis and surface registration, adapting complex mathematical concepts to practical computational algorithms. The authors, Wei Zeng and Xianfeng David Gu, leverage basic tools from linear algebra and multivariate calculus to make the profound Ricci flow theory accessible in a discrete setting. The text focuses on adapting this theory for computational algorithms, applying it to shape analysis and surface registration, and showcasing its utility across various fields. Its minimal prerequisites ensure accessibility for engineers, medical experts, researchers, and students interested in solving real-world problems.

The book is designed to be accessible to a broad audience, including engineers and medical experts, due to its minimal prerequisites. The authors aim to empower readers to deduce major theorems themselves, fostering a deeper understanding of Ricci flow theory. Its practical applications in fields like medical imaging and computer graphics are highlighted, suggesting a focus on bridging theoretical mathematics with real-world problem-solving. The text appears to offer a comprehensive approach to understanding and applying Ricci flow for complex analytical tasks.