EJMT Abstract

We consider the task of systematically locating loop points for parametric curves. We first discuss techniques that can be used to accomplish this task. We then give several examples to illustrate the methods discussed. We describe the manner in which these techniques can be used to locate loop points using the Maple Computer Algebra System (CAS). We describe Maple worksheets that can be used to perform the necessary calculations in an interactive fashion while at the same time using Maple to explore interesting properties of parametric curves.