This file shows off 2 methods of embedding 3d meshes into 2d space. The simplest method uses attribute blur to iteratively solve for a relaxed 2d graph.

The more advanced methods on the right hand side, solve for a relaxed graph directly, however they require the Python library Scipy to run properly.

In theory both methods are for the most part doing something very similar, it really just comes down to what method is right for the problem. Iterative methods are easier to debug, where as direct methods tend to be faster for larger meshes.

For more information see this link:
https://nbviewer.jupyter.org/github/gpeyre/numerical-tours/blob/master/python/meshdeform_1_parameterization.ipynb