Recognizing projections of rational curves

Abstract

Given two rational, properly parametrized space curves ${\mathcal{C}}_1$ and ${\mathcal{C}}_2$, where $\CCC_2$ is contained in some plane $\Pi$, we provide an algorithm to check whether or not there exist perspective or parallel projections mapping $\CCC_1$ onto $\CCC_2$, i.e. to recognize $\CCC_2$ as the projection of $\CCC_1$. In the affirmative case, the algorithm provides the eye point(s) of the perspective transformation(s), or the direction(s) of the parallel projection(s). The problem is mainly discussed from a symbolic point of view, but an approximate algorithm is also included.