curve-fitting compaction

Data compaction accomplished by substituting an analytical expression for the data to be stored or transmitted. Note: Examples of curve-fitting compaction are (a) the breaking of a continuous curve into a series of straight line segments and specifying the slope, intercept, and range for each segment and (b) using a mathematical expression, such as a polynomial or a trigonometric function, and a single point on the corresponding curve instead of storing or transmitting the entire graphic curve or a series of points on it.