Disclosed is a method and system for generating a series of signals representing nodes on a locus of a curve partially defined by a set of related knots, using a compiler in the form of a Hermite cubic parametric polynomial with said knots defining the end points of respective segments of said curve locus, and with said knots being in a successive order in relation to said locus. The method and system are also provided for encoding and decoding said node signals as data and for use of said data in an imaging process responsive to the shape for said curve segments as represented by said encoded data, and encoding the node signals derived in a data base to represent the curve segment. The imaging process involves accessing the encoded data base signals and controlling an imaging means responsive to said accessed signals to reproduce said curve.