Acute Triangulations of Sphere

Sang-hyun Kim

Seoul National University

with Genevieve Walsh (Tufts)
Teichmüller Theory and Low-Dimensional Topology

TSIMF, Sanya, January 12, 2016


The Computational Geometry Algorithms Library

Contents

• Motivation
• Problems
1. Number of simplices
2. Triangulability
3. Fixed combinatorics
• Characterization
• Use of hyperbolic space H and proof
3

• Back to examples
• Further Questions
Triangulation of a sphere
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?

geodesic
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)

geodesic
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron

geodesic
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron

geodesic
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron

geodesic
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron

geodesic

angle = 2π/5 < π/2

Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron
Non-Example
geodesic

angle = 2π/5 < π/2

Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron
Non-Example
geodesic
L = tetrahedron
Triangulation of a sphere

Let L be a combinatorial triangulation (i.e. simp. cplx) of S2.

Main Question
When is L realized as an acute (geodesic) triangulation of S2 ?
(When is L acute?)
Example
L = icosahedron
Non-Example
geodesic
L = tetrahedron

∃angle ≥ 2π/3 > π/2

Motivating Example
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?
Note (Maehara)

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?
Note (Maehara)
L0 is not acute in E2.

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?
Note (Maehara)
L0 is not acute in E2.
Motivation

L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?
Note (Maehara)
L0 is not acute in E2.
Motivation
PDE, Computer graphics.
L0
Motivating Example

L0 ≈ D2, and L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.

Note degrees > 4 in L.
Question
(1) Is L acute?
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?
Note (Maehara)
L0 is not acute in E2.
Motivation
PDE, Computer graphics.
L0
Hyperbolic Geometry?
Contents

• Motivation
• Problems
1. Number of simplices
2. Triangulability
3. Fixed combinatorics
• Characterization
• Use of hyperbolic space H and proof
3

• Back to examples
• Further Questions
History (I) - Number of Simplices
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?
ed 11/19/12 to 143.248.25.5. Redistribution subject to SIAM licen angles at the edges AB and CD.
Figure 1 presents a triangulation of an obtuse triangle and a
and eight acute triangles, respectively (cf. [37]). It was shown in
History (I)these
- Number
numbers areofminimal.
Simplices
Later, Cassidy and Lord [17] proved th
there exists a triangulation of a square into n acute triangles. They
such a triangulation does not exist for n = 9.
Question (Gardner, 1960)
How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?

Fig. 1 Partition of an obtuse triangle and square into acute tri

Each triangle and also each (possibly nonconvex) quadrangle is

ed 11/19/12 to 143.248.25.5. Redistribution subject to SIAM licen angles at the edges AB and CD.
Figure 1 presents a triangulation of an obtuse triangle and a
and eight acute triangles, respectively (cf. [37]). It was shown in
History (I)these
- Number
numbers areofminimal.
Simplices
Later, Cassidy and Lord [17] proved th
there exists a triangulation of a square into n acute triangles. They
such a triangulation does not exist for n = 9.
Question (Gardner, 1960)
How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?

Fig. 1 Partition of an obtuse triangle and square into acute tri

N ≤each
Each triangle and also 7 (possibly nonconvex) quadrangle is
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?
fication in [39]) with acute triangular faces and right
D.
ulation of an obtuse triangle and a square into seven
History
ectively (I) - Number
(cf. [37]). It was shownof in
Simplices
[65] and [69] that
ter, Cassidy and Lord [17] proved that for any n ≥ 10
a square into n(Gardner,
Question acute triangles.
1960) They also showed why
xist for n = 9.
How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?
fication in [39]) with acute triangular faces and right
D.
ulation of an obtuse triangle and a square into seven
History
ectively (I) - Number
(cf. [37]). It was shownof in
Simplices
[65] and [69] that
ter, Cassidy and Lord [17] proved that for any n ≥ 10
a square into n(Gardner,
Question acute triangles.
1960) They also showed why
xist for n = 9.
How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?

N≤8
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?

N ≤ 10
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?
History (I) - Number of Simplices

Question (Gardner, 1960)

How many acute triangles are needed for a Euclidean polygon?

N ≤ O(n)
History (II) - Triangulability (1)
History (II) - Triangulability (1)

Myth (Aristotle, 350 B.C., On The Heaven)

History (II) - Triangulability (1)

Myth (Aristotle, 350 B.C., On The Heaven)

E3 can be tessellated by a regular tetrahedron.
History (II) - Triangulability (1)

Myth (Aristotle, 350 B.C., On The Heaven)

E3 can be tessellated by a regular tetrahedron.
This was not refuted for 1800 years!
 History (II) - Triangulability (1)

Myth (Aristotle, 350 B.C., On The Heaven)

E3 can be tessellated by a regular tetrahedron.
320 JAN BRANDTS, SERGEY KOROTOV, MICHAL KŘÍŽEK, AND JAKUB ŠOLC
This was not refuted for 1800 years!

Eppstein–Sullivan–Üngor
 History (II) - Triangulability (1)

Myth (Aristotle, 350 B.C., On The Heaven)

E3 can be tessellated by a regular tetrahedron.
320 JAN BRANDTS, SERGEY KOROTOV, MICHAL KŘÍŽEK, AND JAKUB ŠOLC
This was not refuted for 1800 years!

arccos ⅓ ≒ 70.5288°
Eppstein–Sullivan–Üngor
History (II) - Triangulability (2)
History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of R3 (Üngor 1991)

History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of R3 (Üngor 1991)

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of I3 

(VanderZee–Hirani–Guoy-Ramos, 2009; Kopczyński–Pak–P. Przytycki, 2012)
History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of R3 (Üngor 1991)

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of I3 

(VanderZee–Hirani–Guoy-Ramos, 2009; Kopczyński–Pak–P. Przytycki, 2012)

• None for I d≥4 ,Ed≥5 (Kalai 1990, KPP 2012)

History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of R3 (Üngor 1991)

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of I3 

(VanderZee–Hirani–Guoy-Ramos, 2009; Kopczyński–Pak–P. Przytycki, 2012)

• None for I d≥4 ,Ed≥5 (Kalai 1990, KPP 2012)

• (Open) For E4 ?
History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of R3 (Üngor 1991)

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of I3 

(VanderZee–Hirani–Guoy-Ramos, 2009; Kopczyński–Pak–P. Przytycki, 2012)

• None for I d≥4 ,Ed≥5 (Kalai 1990, KPP 2012)

• (Open) For E4 ?
Observation (K.–Walsh)

∃ acute Δ’ion of Sd if and only if d≤3.

History (II) - Triangulability (2)

After another 500 years...

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of R3 (Üngor 1991)

• ∃ acute Δ’ion of I3 

(VanderZee–Hirani–Guoy-Ramos, 2009; Kopczyński–Pak–P. Przytycki, 2012)

• None for I d≥4 ,Ed≥5 (Kalai 1990, KPP 2012)

• (Open) For E4 ?
Observation (K.–Walsh)

∃ acute Δ’ion of Sd if and only if d≤3.

Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Recall we say L is acute if L can be realized as an acute Δ’ion.
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Recall we say L is acute if L can be realized as an acute Δ’ion.
Theorem (Maehara, 2003)
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Recall we say L is acute if L can be realized as an acute Δ’ion.
Theorem (Maehara, 2003)
L is acute in E2 iff L has no or enclosing Δ.
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Recall we say L is acute if L can be realized as an acute Δ’ion.
Theorem (Maehara, 2003)
L is acute in E2 iff L has no or enclosing Δ.
Fixed Combinatorics (1)
Let L be an combinatorial Δ’ion of a disk.
Recall we say L is acute if L can be realized as an acute Δ’ion.
Theorem (Maehara, 2003)
L is acute in E2 iff L has no or enclosing Δ.
Fixed Combinatorics (2)
Fixed Combinatorics (2)

Theorem (Itoh, 2002)

Fixed Combinatorics (2)

Theorem (Itoh, 2002)

1. If an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles, 

then n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22.
Fixed Combinatorics (2)

Theorem (Itoh, 2002)

1. If an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles, 

then n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22.
2. If n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22, 28, 34, 

then ∃ an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles.
Fixed Combinatorics (2)

Theorem (Itoh, 2002)

1. If an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles, 

then n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22.
2. If n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22, 28, 34, 

then ∃ an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles.
Q n = 28, 34?
Fixed Combinatorics (2)

Theorem (Itoh, 2002)

1. If an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles, 

then n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22.
2. If n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22, 28, 34, 

then ∃ an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles.
Q n = 28, 34?
Our Goal
Fixed Combinatorics (2)

Theorem (Itoh, 2002)

1. If an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles, 

then n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22.
2. If n is even, ≥ 20 and ≠ 22, 28, 34, 

then ∃ an acute Δ’ion of S2 has n triangles.
Q n = 28, 34?
Our Goal
Characterize L ≈ S2 that is acute. (is it decidable?)
Contents

• Motivation
• Problems
1. Number of simplices
2. Triangulability
3. Fixed combinatorics
• Characterization
• Use of hyperbolic space H and proof
3

• Back to examples
• Further Questions
The Characterization
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .

n=28
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .

n=28 n=34
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .

n=28 n=34

Drawn by CaGe
The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .

n=28 n=34

Corollary (K–Walsh) Drawn by CaGe

The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .

n=28 n=34

Corollary (K–Walsh) Drawn by CaGe

There exists an acute triangulation of S2 with n faces

The Characterization

L : triangulation of S2.
Theorem (K–Walsh)
L is acute iff L has no separating Δ or .

n=28 n=34

Corollary (K–Walsh) Drawn by CaGe

There exists an acute triangulation of S2 with n faces

iff n≥20, even and n ≠ 22.
Contents

• Motivation
• Problems
1. Number of simplices
2. Triangulability
3. Fixed combinatorics
• Characterization
• Use of hyperbolic space H and proof
3

• Back to examples
• Further Questions
π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron
π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

L has no separating Δ or
π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

L has no separating Δ or

iff L* is a right-angled polyhedron in H3.

π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

L has no separating Δ or

iff L* is a right-angled polyhedron in H3.

π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

L has no separating Δ or

iff L* is a right-angled polyhedron in H3.

Theorem (K–Walsh)
π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

L has no separating Δ or

iff L* is a right-angled polyhedron in H3.

Theorem (K–Walsh)

L is acute iff
π/2-angled Hyperbolic Polyhedron

Let L be a combinatorial Δ’ion of S2.

Theorem (Andreev, 1970; Thurston, c.1978)

L has no separating Δ or

iff L* is a right-angled polyhedron in H3.

Theorem (K–Walsh)

L is acute iff

L* is a right-angled polyhedron in H3.

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2.

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2.

Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev).
Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Claim

O’
L can be acutely realized in S2.
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev).
Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Claim

O’
L can be acutely realized in S2.
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev).
O : origin of H3 (light source)
Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Claim

O’
L can be acutely realized in S2.
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). O
O : origin of H3 (light source)
Proof of easy direction (no Δ/ implies acute)
Let L ≈ S2 and no separating Δ or .
Claim

O’
L can be acutely realized in S2.
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). O
O : origin of H3 (light source)
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.

fig:sym Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.

fig:sym Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.

fig:sym Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
fig:sym Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
T Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
fig:sym Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
T Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
T is a spherical triangle.
Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe
fig:sym

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
T Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
T is a spherical triangle.
Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe
fig:sym

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
T Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
T is a spherical triangle.
Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe
fig:sym

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
T Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X acute!
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
T is a spherical triangle.
Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe
fig:sym

Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c

the vertex O of C. Each slanted cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
 e0 but that does not contain O0 .

Proof. See Figure 5 for a labeling of vertices in a slanted cu

Proof of easy direction (no Δ/
adjacent vertices to O and implies
X 0
, Y 0
and acute)
Z 0
be their opposite
perpendicular to ⇤XY 0 O0 Z 0 , theqfaces
1 ⇤OY Z 0 X and ⇤OXY 0 Z
to ⇤XY 0 0 0
O Z . Similarly, the face ⇤OY Z 0
X is perpendicular
Let L ≈ S and no
2 separating
O0 Z 0
= ⇤XY 0 OΔ Z \ ⇤Y. Z 0 O0 X 0 is perpendicular to ⇤OY Z 0 X
0 0or
O’ : vertex of P
Claim

L can be acutely realized in S2. Xʹ Oʹ

Yʹ
Combinatorially, L* ≅ P ⊆ H3 (Andreev). Z
T Zʹ
O : origin of H3 (light source) Y
O X acute!
X, Y, Z : feet of perpendiculars from O.
cube in H3
T is a spherical triangle.
Figure 5: A slanted cube. The bold edges have dihe
fig:sym
So, we have an acute triangulation L** ≅ L.
Let T be a spherical triangle and C ✓ H3 be an open c
the vertex O of C. Each slanted QED cube where T is the link o
corresponds to a point O0 2 C. Conversely, for each O0 2 C
cone C 0 at O0 formed by the perpendiculars to the three faces
are all non-obtuse, these three perpendiculars lie in C and the
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
P0
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
P0
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
In general, we err as Aristotle.

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
In general, we err as Aristotle.
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
In general, we err as Aristotle.
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
tessellation by P of X3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
In general, we err as Aristotle.
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.
(The dual of Davis Complex)

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
tessellation by P of X3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
In general, we err as Aristotle.
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.
(The dual of Davis Complex)
X is not H3, but CAT(-1).

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
tessellation by P of X3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
L : acute Δ’ion of S2 ⟾ L* ≅ P0 ⊆ E3 with obtuse faces.
Choose an obtuse P ⊆ H3 s.t. P ≒ P0 .
If P were Pπ/2 is right-angled, then P would tessellates H3.
In general, we err as Aristotle.
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.
(The dual of Davis Complex)
X is not H3, but CAT(-1).
(“singular negatively curved”)

tessellation by Pπ/2 of H3
tessellation by P of X3
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )

However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

tessellation by P of X
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

tessellation by P of X
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

W: the reflection group of P.

tessellation by P of X
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

W: the reflection group of P.
W =C(L) =< v ∈ L(0) | v2=1, and

tessellation by P of X
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

W: the reflection group of P.
W =C(L) =< v ∈ L(0) | v2=1, and
uv=vu for each edge {u,v} of L>.
tessellation by P of X
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

W: the reflection group of P.
W =C(L) =< v ∈ L(0) | v2=1, and
uv=vu for each edge {u,v} of L>.
tessellation by P of X
Cayley(W) is quasi-isometric to X.
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

W: the reflection group of P.
W =C(L) =< v ∈ L(0) | v2=1, and
uv=vu for each edge {u,v} of L>.
tessellation by P of X
Cayley(W) is quasi-isometric to X.
Cayley(W) = X* (dual)
Proof (acute implies no Δ/ )
However, P tessellates X ≈ H3.

X is not H3, but CAT(-1)

& δ-hyperbolic

(“singular negatively curved”)

W: the reflection group of P.
W =C(L) =< v ∈ L(0) | v2=1, and
uv=vu for each edge {u,v} of L>.
tessellation by P of X
Cayley(W) is quasi-isometric to X.
Cayley(W) = X* (dual)
W is one-ended, δ-hyperbolic ⟹ L has no sep Δ or .
Contents

• Motivation
• Problems
1. Number of simplices
2. Triangulability
3. Fixed combinatorics
• Characterization
• Use of hyperbolic space H and proof
3

• Back to examples
• Further Questions
Back to the Motivating Example
Back to the Motivating Example
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
(1) Let L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
(1) Let L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.
Is L acute?
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
(1) Let L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.
Is L acute? NO
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
(1) Let L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.
Is L acute? NO
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ?
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
(1) Let L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.
Is L acute? NO
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ? YES
Back to the Motivating Example

Let L0 be this triangulation of D2.

Question
(1) Let L = L0 U L0 (along ∂) ≈ S2.
Is L acute? NO
(2) Is L0 acute in S2 ? YES
(Dual of ideal π/2-polyhedra)
Contents

• Motivation
• Problems
1. Number of simplices
2. Triangulability
3. Fixed combinatorics
• Characterization
• Use of hyperbolic space H and proof
3

• Back to examples
• Further Questions
Further Questions
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Fact { acute special triangulations ≅ L } is connected.
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Fact { acute special triangulations ≅ L } is connected.

special
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Fact { acute special triangulations ≅ L } is connected.
Proof A special triangulation realizing L

special
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Fact { acute special triangulations ≅ L } is connected.
Proof A special triangulation realizing L
= the dual projection of Pπ/2 ⊆ H3 onto ∂H3 = S2

special
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Fact { acute special triangulations ≅ L } is connected.
Proof A special triangulation realizing L
= the dual projection of Pπ/2 ⊆ H3 onto ∂H3 = S2
(i) There uniquely exists such P (Mostow or Andreev).

special
Further Questions
Fix the combinatorics of L ≈ S2.
Question Is { acute triangulations ≅ L } connected?
Fact { acute special triangulations ≅ L } is connected.
Proof A special triangulation realizing L
= the dual projection of Pπ/2 ⊆ H3 onto ∂H3 = S2
(i) There uniquely exists such P (Mostow or Andreev).
(ii) Moving L means moving the light source in P.

special
Further Questions
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

T
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

R
QR
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

R
QR

green = π/2
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

Vol(T) := ∑ Vol(QR).
R∈T R
QR

green = π/2
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

Vol(T) := ∑ Vol(QR).
R∈T R
QR
Fix an abstract triangulation L ≈ S2.
green = π/2
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

Vol(T) := ∑ Vol(QR).
R∈T R
QR
Fix an abstract triangulation L ≈ S2.
Question green = π/2
Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

Vol(T) := ∑ Vol(QR).
R∈T R
QR
Fix an abstract triangulation L ≈ S2.
Question green = π/2

What is sup{ Vol(T) : T realizes L }?

Further Questions

T : acute triangulation of S2.

R
For each acute spherical triangle R in T, T
∃ unique reflection cube QR whose corner is R.

Vol(T) := ∑ Vol(QR).
R∈T R
QR
Fix an abstract triangulation L ≈ S2.
Question green = π/2

What is sup{ Vol(T) : T realizes L }?

Remark T : special ⟹ Vol(T) is combinatorial invariant.
References
References
• Kim, S. & Walsh, G., Coxeter groups, hyperbolic cubes, and acute
triangulations (preprint).
References
• Kim, S. & Walsh, G., Coxeter groups, hyperbolic cubes, and acute
triangulations (preprint).
• Kopczyński, E., Pak, I., & Przytycki, P. (2012). Acute triangulations of
polyhedra and RN. Combinatorica 32(1), 85–110.
References
• Kim, S. & Walsh, G., Coxeter groups, hyperbolic cubes, and acute
triangulations (preprint).
• Kopczyński, E., Pak, I., & Przytycki, P. (2012). Acute triangulations of
polyhedra and RN. Combinatorica 32(1), 85–110.
• VanderZee, E., Hirani, A. N., Zharnitsky, V., & Guoy, D. (2010). A dihedral
acute triangulation of the cube. Computational Geometry. Theory and
Applications, 43(5), 445–452.
References
• Kim, S. & Walsh, G., Coxeter groups, hyperbolic cubes, and acute
triangulations (preprint).
• Kopczyński, E., Pak, I., & Przytycki, P. (2012). Acute triangulations of
polyhedra and RN. Combinatorica 32(1), 85–110.
• VanderZee, E., Hirani, A. N., Zharnitsky, V., & Guoy, D. (2010). A dihedral
acute triangulation of the cube. Computational Geometry. Theory and
Applications, 43(5), 445–452.

Thank you!