Automatic Draw Order for Overlapping Graphics Entities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual management of drawing order in computer-implemented graphics systems is tedious, time-consuming, and error-prone, as it is typically based on the time of creation, which may not result in the most desirable composition of graphical images.
Innovation Solution
A method to automate the drawing order of entities by identifying overlapping entities and applying a set of rules to determine a proper order, using a directed acyclic graph to represent the order and break cyclical relationships by assigning priorities to rule strengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual management of drawing order is used, then users can control the display order, but it becomes tedious, time-consuming, and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines drawing order by analyzing spatial relationships between entities and applying predefined rules, eliminating the need for manual reordering operations. The drawing order manager autonomously processes overlapping entities and establishes optimal display sequences without user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated computational processes. Instead of users manually adjusting draw order through interface operations, the system uses algorithms to detect spatial relationships, apply rules, and automatically generate drawing orders, substituting human effort with computational logic.
2Ease of manufacture
If drawing order is based on time of creation, then implementation is simple, but it may not result in the most desirable composition of graphical images
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter used for ordering from temporal (time of creation) to spatial (position and overlap relationships). By analyzing the spatial parameters of entities and their overlapping regions, the system determines draw order based on compositional requirements rather than creation timing, achieving better graphical composition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the drawing order manager continuously analyzes the spatial relationships between entities and adjusts the drawing order accordingly. The system monitors overlapping conditions and automatically modifies the display sequence to achieve desired compositional outcomes, creating a adaptive ordering system.
3Productivity
If automatic drawing order is implemented, then productivity is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drawing order management into distinct functional modules: entity detection, spatial relationship analysis, rule application, and draw order generation. By dividing the complex task into manageable segments handled by specialized components, the system achieves automation while maintaining manageable architectural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawing order manager serves multiple functions: detecting overlapping entities, analyzing spatial relationships, applying various ordering rules, and generating draw orders. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional system, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate modules for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for automating a draw order of entities output from a computer. A drawing output from a computer (e.g., on a display device) is obtained by a drawing program and examined to identify two or more entities that overlap/intersect. The drawing program then automatically determines the drawing order for the two or more entities based on a set of one or more predefined rules.