Abstract: A computer-based system and method for refining of mesh model of a three-dimensional (3D) object or surface through adaptive subdivision that results in a smooth interpolation of the mesh surface. In one example, the system operates upon a triangulated mesh model and analyzes each edge of the triangle in question to determine whether that particular edge should be subdivided based on a predetermined subdivision criteria. After an analysis of each of the edges of that triangle (using the adaptive subdivision criteria) the system and method may make one of several different types of subdivisions—e.g. dividing the mesh triangle into two, three or four smaller triangles.